Level 3 in Childcare and Education (T Level)

The T Level in Education and Early Years at Hull College is your gateway into one of the most meaningful and rewarding career paths—shaping young minds and supporting children as they grow, learn, and thrive. This dynamic two-year programme blends classroom learning with substantial industry placement, giving you the perfect balance of knowledge and real-world experience.

You’ll explore what makes children tick: how they develop, learn, communicate, and form relationships. Key topics include child development, safeguarding, inclusion and diversity, play and learning, behaviour support, and the professional responsibilities of working in education and care settings. Along the way, you’ll gain practical skills in planning activities, observing children’s progress, promoting wellbeing, and creating environments where every child can flourish.

Course Highlights:

• Two days per week in an industry placement, giving you authentic, hands-on experience from the very start
• Opportunities to work in nurseries, early years settings, and schools, helping you see how theory translates into real practice
• Development of the professional skills and behaviours employers are looking for in education and early years roles
• Access to Hull College’s purpose-built nursery on campus, offering a safe, supportive, and realistic training environment
• The chance to practise essential skills such as setting up stimulating activities, supporting children’s development, and understanding daily routines
• Time to build confidence and refine your skills before and alongside your industry placement

Course Units:

Year 1

• Element 1: Wider education sector

• Element 2: Supporting education

• Element 3: Safeguarding, equality and diversity and wellbeing

• Element 4: Special educational needs and disabilities (SEND)

• Element 5: Child development

• Element 6: Working in partnership

• Element 7: Professional practice

Year 2

Occupational Specialism (OS) components:

OS – Early Years Educator

The course is delivered over two years and offers a balanced mix of classroom learning, practical workshops, group activities, presentations, and independent research. Assessment is varied to showcase your strengths, with a combination of internal and external tasks such as essays, reports, case studies, coursework, and presentations. This flexible approach allows you to demonstrate your knowledge and practical skills in different ways. Throughout the programme, you’ll receive regular feedback, guidance, and support to help you grow, improve, and succeed.

5 x GCSEs at grade 4(C) or above, including Maths and English.

Completing the T Level in Education and Early Years opens doors to a wide range of exciting opportunities. You could progress to university to study early childhood education, education studies, social sciences, or child development at degree level. Alternatively, you could take up an apprenticeship in childcare, teaching support, or education leadership. This qualification also prepares you for employment in nurseries, early years settings, schools, or other child-focused services, giving you the practical skills and experience employers are looking for.