Level 3 Children's Learning and Development (Early Years Educator) Course. Work-based training at your workplace. You study while working in an early years setting in England, applying your learning directly with children day to day. The course covers child development, planning and observation, safeguarding, and supporting children's learning from birth to five. It typically takes 12 months to complete. The Level 3 Children's Learning and Development qualification is recognised in statutory staffing ratios for nursery work in England, making it a significant step for anyone working in early years.
Who this course is for
The Level 3 Diploma in Children’s Learning and Development (Early Years Educator) is for learners who work in or want to work with children in Early Years settings in England only.
What you will learn
You'll understand how children develop physically, socially, and emotionally from birth to five.
You'll learn how to plan and deliver activities that support children's learning.
You'll develop observation and assessment skills to track children's progress.
You'll understand safeguarding responsibilities and how to keep children safe.
You'll learn how to support children's communication, language, and literacy development.
You'll understand how to work in partnership with parents and carers.
You'll learn about inclusive practice and how to support children with additional needs.
How you will learn
You learn on the job, in your early years setting. Assessment includes observations of your practice in the workplace, written assignments, and professional discussions with your assessor. You'll build a portfolio of evidence showing your competence across the qualification. An assessor will visit your workplace to observe you working directly with children and to review your progress.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. TrainPlus will confirm anything else you need before you start.
Where next
Jobs you could do
Nursery practitioner: working with children aged 0 to 5 in a nursery setting
Room leader: leading a room within a nursery or early years setting
Key person: taking responsibility for a small group of children's welfare and development
Early years teaching assistant: supporting learning in a Reception or pre-school class
Childminder: running your own registered childcare provision at home
Forest school assistant: supporting outdoor learning for young children
Children's centre worker: delivering family support and early years activities
What you could study next
Level 5 Early Childhood Education and Care Diploma: moves you toward senior or management roles in early years settings.
Early Years Initial Teacher Training (EYITT): leads to Early Years Teacher Status, recognised by Ofsted for leading practice with children from birth to five.
Level 4 Certificate in Early Years Advanced Practice: deepens specialist knowledge in areas such as SEND or leadership.
Foundation Degree in Early Childhood Studies: a higher education route for those wanting to progress into teaching or management.
