Level 3 Children’s Play, Learning and Development Course in Hillingdon
Cost£200.00
Duration2 years
LevelLevel 3
DeliveryClassroom based
StartFlexible
Study modeFull-time
AttendanceDaytime
Awarding body
About this course
Level 3 Children's Play, Learning and Development Course in Hillingdon. Classes run at Swakeleys School for Girls, full-time during the day. This two-year children's play, learning and development qualification covers how young children grow, play, and learn, alongside the skills needed to support them. It counts as the equivalent of one A Level, so you can study it alongside other Level 3 subjects. You'll need four GCSEs at grade 4 or above in relevant subjects to apply. No previous childcare study is required.
Who this course is for
If you would like to work with small children, this course can give you an insight into the range of opportunities open to you and help you to develop some useful skills. Equivalent to 1 A level, you can study it alongside other level 3 qualifications in preparation for entry to jobs, apprenticeships and higher education courses in early years such as working in nursery and primary schools, children's nursing and social work. You don't need to have studied a childcare qualification previously.
Entry requirements
4 GCSEs at grade 4 or above, in subjects that are relevant to the course
What you will learn
You'll explore how children develop physically, emotionally, and cognitively in their early years.
You'll study how play supports children's learning and wellbeing.
You'll examine the roles of practitioners, families, and settings in children's development.
You'll learn about safeguarding, health, and safety in childcare environments.
You'll develop observation and assessment skills used in early years practice.
You'll investigate a range of career and study routes in early years, education, and children's services.
How you will learn
You'll learn through classroom-based lessons at Swakeleys School for Girls. Assessment is through a combination of internally assessed assignments and externally assessed examinations, as required by the Pearson Edexcel BTEC specification. Assignments are completed throughout the course and marked by your teachers. External assessments are set and marked by Pearson Edexcel.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. Swakeleys School for Girls will confirm anything else you need before you start.
Where next
Jobs you could do
Nursery assistant: supporting children's play and learning in a nursery setting.
Teaching assistant: working alongside teachers in primary schools.
Playworker: leading play activities in after-school or holiday clubs.
Childminder: providing home-based childcare as a registered practitioner.
Children's residential support worker: caring for children in residential settings.
Early years apprentice: combining paid work with further training in a nursery or school.
What you could study next
Level 3 Early Years Educator Diploma: the qualification recognised in statutory nursery staffing ratios; a natural next step if you want to work as a lead practitioner.
BA (Hons) Early Childhood Studies: a university degree for those wanting to move into senior practice, management, or research roles.
BA (Hons) Primary Education (QTS): the route into qualified teacher status if you want to teach in primary schools.
Higher Apprenticeship in Children and Young People's Services: combines degree-level study with paid employment.
