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Level 3 Early Years Educator Course in Saint Austell – Cornwall College St Austell

Cost£2,882.00
Duration2 years
LevelLevel 3
DeliveryClassroom based
StartFlexible
Study modePart-time
AttendanceDaytime
Awarding bodyNCFE awarding body
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About this course

Level 3 Early Years Educator Course in Saint Austell. Classes run at Cornwall College St Austell, part-time during the day over two years.

The course covers child development, play, legislation, and wellbeing. You'll build the professional practice that employers in nurseries and early years settings expect. Entry requires four or more GCSEs at Grade 4 or above, including English and Maths, or a relevant Level 2 qualification at an equivalent standard. Functional Skills Level 2 in English or Maths may also be accepted.

You'll finish with the Technical Occupational Entry for the Early Years Workforce (Early Years Educator) Diploma at Level 3.

Who this course is for

Choose this course if you want a nationally recognised childcare qualification that supports employment and higher education progression. You will study key themes like child development play legislation and wellbeing and build professional practice standards that employers value. It is also a strong foundation for wider children’s workforce careers and routes into university with UCAS points.

Entry requirements

Entry requirements for external applicants and school leavers

  • Four or more GCSEs at Grade 4 or above including English and/or Maths, or successful completion of a relevant Level 2 qualification AND a grade 4 or above in English and/or Maths.
  • Functional Skills Level 2 in English and/or Maths will be considered as alternatives to GCSE, but a GCSE resit may be required depending on grade.

What you will learn

  • You'll study child development from birth through to age five and beyond.
  • You'll learn how play supports children's learning and wellbeing.
  • You'll understand the legislation and safeguarding frameworks that govern early years settings.
  • You'll develop skills to support children's communication, physical development, and emotional health.
  • You'll build professional practice standards that meet employer expectations.
  • You'll explore how to work in partnership with families and other professionals.

How you will learn

You'll learn through classroom sessions at Cornwall College St Austell, combined with practical placement in an early years setting. Assessment includes written assignments, observations of your practice, and professional discussions. You'll build a portfolio of evidence throughout the course to demonstrate your skills and knowledge.

What you will need to bring

The centre will provide most materials. Cornwall College St Austell will confirm anything else you need before you start.

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Early Years Educator, works directly with children in nurseries and early years settings.
  • Early Years Practitioner, supports children's learning and development day to day.
  • Nursery Nurse, cares for and educates young children in a nursery environment.
  • Nursery Practitioner, delivers planned activities within a nursery room.
  • Nursery Room Leader, oversees a room and supports junior staff.
  • Childminder, provides registered childcare from a home setting.

What you could study next

  • A degree in Early Childhood Studies or Education, for those wanting to move into leadership or teaching roles. This qualification carries UCAS points to support university applications.
  • Early Years Teacher Status, for those aiming to lead learning in early years settings.
  • Level 5 Leadership and Management in Education, for practitioners moving into management.
Apply on cornwall.ac.uk →
Apply now →

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