Level 3 Early Years Educator Course in Paignton. Classes run at South Devon College, part-time during the day. You'll need GCSE grade 4 (C) or above in English and GCSE grade 3 (D) or above in Maths to enrol. The course takes one year and covers child development from birth to five years old. It's the level 3 early years educator qualification that counts toward statutory staffing ratios in early years settings, so completing it opens the door to working as a qualified practitioner. These early years educator classes are delivered part-time, making it possible to manage alongside other commitments.
Who this course is for
If you’re ready to take your next step in a rewarding career supporting children’s early development, the Level 3 Diploma in Early Years Workforce (Early Years Educator) at South Devon College will give you the professional training and status you need. This nationally recognised qualification, accredited by CACHE, is the gold standard for working with children from birth to five years old, and it gives you a licence to practise as an Early Years Educator. You will study over two academic years, attending one evening session per week via Microsoft Teams and gaining real-world experience through a two-day-per-week placement in a registered early years setting. Your skills and progress will be supported by regular visits from an assessor who will observe your practical development in placement. Throughout the course, you will cover key areas including child development, safeguarding, health and wellbeing, play-based learning, and inclusive practice, equipping you with the knowledge and experience needed to support children in their vital early years. This flexible, blended learning model is ideal for adults aged 19+ looking to upskill or retrain while balancing existing commitments. Funding may be available, depending on your circumstances and eligibility. Once you complete the course, you’ll be fully qualified to work in early years settings such as nurseries, pre-schools, and reception classes. You’ll also have a clear progression route to Foundation Degrees at University Centre South Devon, part of South Devon College.
Entry requirements
You must have a GCSE Grade 3(D) in Maths, You must have a GCSE Grade 4(C) in English
What you will learn
You'll develop knowledge of child development from birth to five years old.
You'll learn how to plan and support children's learning and play.
You'll study how to observe and assess children's progress.
You'll understand safeguarding, child protection, and welfare requirements.
You'll learn how to support children's health, wellbeing, and nutrition.
You'll develop skills in working in partnership with parents and carers.
You'll study equality, diversity, and inclusive practice in early years settings.
How you will learn
You'll learn through classroom sessions at South Devon College, combining taught lessons with practical work-based experience 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 competence as an early years educator.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. South Devon College will confirm anything else you need before you start.
Where next
Jobs you could do
Nursery practitioner. Work in a nursery as a qualified Level 3 practitioner.
Room leader. Lead a room in a nursery or pre-school setting.
Key person. Take responsibility for a group of children's individual care and learning.
Pre-school worker. Support children's development in a pre-school environment.
Early years teaching assistant. Support learning in a Reception class.
Childminder. Work independently caring for children in a home setting.
What you could study next
Level 5 Diploma in Leadership and Management for Residential Childcare or Early Years. Suitable if you want to move into a management or deputy manager role in an early years setting.
Early Childhood Studies degree. A university route for those looking to move into teaching, research, or senior leadership in early years.
Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) via an Early Years Initial Teacher Training programme. The route to becoming a qualified early years teacher.
