Free or reduced fees may be available, depending on your circumstances. London Learning Consortium lists a fee of £2,882 if you're not eligible. Contact London Learning Consortium for more info.
Level 3 Early Years Practitioner Course. Study online, fitting your learning around your work and home life. The course is free for some learners, and fees may apply for others, subject to eligibility. This City and Guilds early years practitioner qualification covers child development, safeguarding, communication, and supporting children's learning from birth to five years. You'll need a voluntary or paid placement with a childcare provider to complete the course. The course takes around 18 months. It's the qualification recognised in statutory staffing ratios for nursery work.
Who this course is for
People employed in Childcare and seeking career progression to a more senior role or those seeking to enter the profession. You may already have some work experience but no formal qualifications.
Entry requirements
Are 19 or over and do not already have a level 3 qualification.
You must have UK residency for at least 3 years and currently be living in London.
You must have the required equivalent level of Maths and English for the course.
Unemployed or Employed (if employed not earning over London Living Wage of £23,300 per annum)
Must have voluntary work experience placement or be employed with a childcare provider.
What you will learn
You'll develop knowledge of child development from birth to five years.
You'll learn how to plan and deliver play-based learning activities.
You'll understand safeguarding procedures and how to keep children safe.
You'll learn how to support children's physical and emotional wellbeing.
You'll develop skills in observing and assessing children's progress.
You'll understand how to work in partnership with parents and carers.
You'll learn about inclusive practice and supporting children with additional needs.
How you will learn
You'll study online, working through course materials at your own pace. Assessment includes written assignments, observations in your childcare placement, and a portfolio of evidence from your practice. You must complete a placement with a childcare provider throughout the course. This practical element is required to meet the qualification's standards.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. London Learning Consortium will confirm anything else you need before you start. You will need access to a device and internet connection for online study, and you must arrange or already have a placement with a childcare provider.
Where next
Jobs you could do
Nursery practitioner: working with children aged 0-5 in a nursery setting.
Room leader: leading a room or age-group within a nursery.
Early years educator: counted in statutory staffing ratios at Level 3.
Childminder: registered self-employed childcare in your own home.
Preschool assistant: supporting learning in a preschool or playgroup.
Nursery nurse: providing care and education in day nurseries or schools.
Family support worker: working with families and young children in the community.
What you could study next
Level 5 Diploma in Leadership for Health and Social Care and Children and Young People's Services: moves you toward management and leadership roles in early years settings.
Early Childhood Studies degree: a full undergraduate route for those wanting to move into specialist or advisory roles.
Level 3 Award in Education and Training: useful if you want to train or mentor others in childcare settings.
