Level 3 Playwork Course in Croydon. Classes run at Croydon College, full-time during the day. You'll study the principles of playwork, learn how to create safe and inclusive play environments, and develop skills in supporting children and young people across a range of settings. The course combines classroom study with work placements and runs for 35 weeks. You'll need GCSE grade 4 or above (or Functional Skills Level 2) in both English and Maths to join.
Who this course is for
During this course, you will develop the knowledge, skills, and practical experience needed to support children and young people in a variety of play settings. You will explore the principles of playwork and learn how to create safe, inclusive, stimulating, and child-centred environments that promote play, learning, and development. Through a combination of classroom learning and industry work placements, you will gain a thorough understanding of child development, safeguarding, health and safety, equality, diversity and inclusion, and the importance of building positive relationships with children, families, and colleagues. These experiences will help you develop the confidence and professional skills needed to work effectively within the playwork sector. To achieve the qualification, you will study and successfully complete 16 units covering a wide range of topics designed to prepare you for employment. This course provides an excellent foundation for a rewarding career in playwork, childcare, education, and other roles supporting children and young people.
Entry requirements
GCSE grade 9-4 in English and Maths or Functional Skills Level 2 is required, with preference given to those who have completed a Level 2 vocational course related to childcare or have relevant work experience in the childcare sector. If students cannot provide evidence of their English and Maths qualifications, they will be required to complete assessments in these subjects. Learners should be working at Level 2 in both English and Maths, and may also need to complete a written task.
What you will learn
You'll explore the core principles and values that underpin playwork practice.
You'll learn how to design and manage safe, stimulating play environments.
You'll develop skills in supporting children's and young people's play across diverse settings.
You'll build the ability to promote positive relationships with children, families, and colleagues.
You'll understand how to create inclusive play spaces that meet a range of needs.
You'll gain practical experience through work placements in real play and childcare settings.
You'll learn how to observe, assess, and respond to children's play behaviours.
How you will learn
You'll learn through a combination of classroom-based sessions and work placements. Classroom study covers the theory and principles behind playwork practice. Placements give you hands-on experience in play settings. Assessment is likely to include written assignments, observations, and evidence gathered from your placement. Croydon College will confirm the full assessment breakdown before you start.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. Croydon College will confirm anything else you need before you start.
Where next
Jobs you could do
Play worker: supporting children's play in community or school settings.
After-school club supervisor: leading play sessions outside school hours.
Holiday play scheme worker: running activity programmes during school holidays.
Nursery practitioner: working in early years settings with young children.
Learning support assistant: helping children in school-based environments.
Youth worker: supporting young people's development through structured activities.
What you could study next
Level 4 Certificate in Playwork: deepens your knowledge for senior or management roles in play settings.
Level 3 Diploma in Early Years Education: broadens your options into nursery and reception-age work.
Level 5 Diploma in Leadership for Health and Social Care: suited to those moving into management across children's services.
A degree in Childhood Studies or Youth Work: for those wanting to move into graduate-level roles or specialist practice.
