Care and Early Years - Level 3 Technical Occupational Entry for the Early Years Workforce

This qualification is for those who want to train in Early Years Education. It prepares adult learners with the knowledge, skills, and understanding needed to work in early years settings and be included in staff-to-child ratios. It meets the Department for Education's Early Years Educator (DfE EYE) criteria and aligns with the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) Framework. Employers in the early years sector officially recognise this qualification.

The course includes a mandatory work placement throughout its duration. Learners will be observed holistically during their placements and will have support from a Work Placement Officer. It is recommended that learners complete 350 hours of placement, with a minimum of 300 hours. The qualification covers children from birth to 5 years old, with additional knowledge of children up to 7 years old.

Learning will take place one day per week in the classroom, one early evening session online, and within an early years setting.

10 modules are covered consisting of:

Introduction to the role of the early years educator

Holistic child development

Children with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND)

Effective communication in an early years setting

Safeguarding and welfare requirements

Health, wellbeing and safety

Promoting an effective early years curriculum

Assessment of children’s learning and development

Understanding play for holistic development and learning

Partnership working

Each module has criteria linked to placement where you show you are able to evidence your learning practically

Learners will complete a portfolio of evidence alongside continuous assessment which includes written tasks and activities, case studies and project work and observations in placement.

A successful interview and GCSE Grade 4 or equivalent in English.

You should have an interest in the subject, and experience of working in the Early Years sector will also be considered.

Learners who achieve this qualification could progress to the following:

employment:

• Educator in day nurseries

• Educator in nursery schools

• Educator in reception classes in primary schools

• Pre-school worker

Further education:

• NCFE CACHE Level 5 Diploma for the Early Years Senior Practitioner Higher education Degree