Level 3 Early Years Educator Course in Truro. Evening classes run at Truro College, part-time over 48 weeks. You'll need at least four GCSEs at grade 4 or above, including English and Maths, and a placement in an early years setting before you start. The placement runs to around 350 hours across the year, so the course combines classroom learning with hands-on practice. Level 3 Early Years Educator is the qualification recognised in statutory staffing ratios for nursery work.
Who this course is for
This course runs part-time over an academic year covering vocational and academic elements to meet specific criteria to enable access to the Early Years Workforce. Both evening and daytime classes are available.
Entry requirements
Students must hold a minimum of four GCSE's at grade 4 or 5 (or equivalent) to include English and Maths. Students must have a placement in an Early Years setting before starting the course (to total approx. 350 hours across the academic year).
What you will learn
You'll develop knowledge of child development from birth to five years and beyond.
You'll learn how to plan and deliver activities that support children's learning and development.
You'll understand safeguarding, child protection procedures, and your duty of care.
You'll study health, wellbeing, and nutrition in early years settings.
You'll learn how to observe and assess children's progress and keep accurate records.
You'll explore how to work in partnership with parents, carers, and other professionals.
You'll understand inclusive practice and how to support children with additional needs.
How you will learn
You'll learn through classroom sessions at Truro College combined with practical hours in your early years placement. Assessment includes written assignments, observations of your practice in the setting, and professional discussions. You'll build a portfolio of evidence from your placement to demonstrate your competence. Evening classes run throughout the academic year alongside your placement hours.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. Truro College will confirm anything else you need before you start. You will need to arrange and confirm your early years placement before the course begins.
Where next
Jobs you could do
Nursery practitioner: working with children aged 0 to 5 in a nursery setting
Room leader: leading a room or age-group within a nursery
Early years teaching assistant: supporting learning in Reception or pre-school
Childminder: running your own registered childcare from home
Forest school assistant: outdoor learning support for young children
Special educational needs (SEN) support worker: helping children with additional needs in early years settings
What you could study next
Level 5 Diploma in Leadership for the Early Years Profession: moves you toward a senior or management role in an early years setting.
Early Childhood Studies degree: a full undergraduate route for those looking to specialise further or move into advisory, research, or policy roles.
Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) via an Early Years Initial Teacher Training programme: the route to becoming a qualified early years teacher in a school setting.
