Level 3 Early Years Educator Course. Study online at your own pace over 24 months. You can fit your learning around work, family, or other commitments without travelling to a centre. The course prepares you to work with children from birth to five years old, with knowledge extending to age seven. You must be at least 16 years old to enrol. A previous Level 2 childcare qualification is helpful but not required. You'll have an initial assessment to confirm this is the right level for you.
Who this course is for
The aim of this qualification is to prepare learners to become early years educators, enabling them to work with children from birth to five years and gain knowledge of children aged five to seven years.
Upon achievement of this qualification, it is intended that learners will be able to enter the workforce as early years educators.
Entry requirements
Learners must be at least 16 years old.
Applicants may find it helpful if they have already achieved the NCFE CACHE Level 2 Diploma for the Early Years Practitioner 603/3723/0, or a previous level 2 qualification that is full and relevant or holds transferable skills which will prepare learners to study at level 3.
All learners MUST be capable of achieving the learning outcomes and complying with the relevant literacy, numeracy and health and safety requirements.
What you will learn
You'll develop knowledge of child development from birth to seven years.
You'll learn how to plan and deliver activities that support children's learning and development.
You'll understand how to keep children safe, including safeguarding and health and safety responsibilities.
You'll learn how to observe and assess children's progress.
You'll understand how to support children's communication, language, and literacy development.
You'll learn how to work in partnership with parents, carers, and other professionals.
You'll understand the legal and regulatory frameworks that govern early years settings.
How you will learn
You'll study online through GHQ Training Elizabeth Court, working through course materials at your own pace. Assessment includes written assignments, observations in an early years setting, and a portfolio of evidence demonstrating your practice. You will need access to a suitable placement with children aged birth to five to complete the practical elements of the qualification.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. GHQ Training Elizabeth Court will confirm anything else you need before you start.
Where next
Jobs you could do
Nursery practitioner: working with children aged birth to five 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 for young children.
Pre-school assistant: supporting learning and play in a pre-school setting.
Sure Start or family centre worker: community-based early years support roles.
What you could study next
Level 5 Diploma in Leadership and Management for Residential Childcare or a Foundation Degree in Early Childhood Studies: moves you toward senior practitioner or management roles.
Early Childhood Studies BA (Hons): a full degree for those wanting to move into leadership, advisory, or policy roles in early years.
Early Years Teacher Status (EYTS): for those wanting to lead practice and be responsible for education in an early years setting.
