Education & Childcare

What will I study?

We offer childcare and education courses at Levels 2 and 3 which will provide you with the progression routes you need to work within this diverse sector.

Level 2 Full Time: You will gain the knowledge and understanding of babies and young children from birth to 7 years, but in particular 0-5 years.

You will study subjects such as the role of the early years practitioner, how specific legislation fits within early years practice and supporting children's play and development.

As part of this course you will attend work placement two days per week which will provide you with practical, first-hand experience of the early years sector and help you develop your skills to become an Early Years Practitioner.

This is a knowledge and skills based qualification. You will complete coursework and undertake observations in your work placement setting.

Level 2 Part Time: You will study the Level 2 Diploma for the Early Years Practitioner. The qualification will prepare you to work with children 0-5 years, with knowledge of children up to 7 years.

You will study subjects including child and young people's development, supporting children's play and development, promoting positive behaviour, supporting wellbeing and healthy lifestyles, equality and diversity, partnership working, safeguarding, legislation and health and safety.

You will attend College 3 hours a week and must have a minimum of 12 hours' placement a week in a suitable setting and have a DBS. A good standard of verbal and written English is also required to successfully complete the course. This course typically takes between 9-12 months to complete. 

Level 3 Full Time - this qualification will prepare you to become an Early Years Educator. This will enable you to work with children from birth to 5 years and gain knowledge of children aged 5 to 7 years.

This qualification centres around four themes: health and wellbeing; legislation, frameworks and professional practice; play, development and learning for school readiness; professional development.

As part of the course you will attend work placement two days per week which will provide you with practical first-hand experience of what it takes to be an Early Years Practitioner. Throughout the course and whilst on placement, you will need to demonstrate competence in both knowledge and skills.

Level 3 Part Time: You will study the Level 3 Diploma for the Early Years Workforce (Early Years Educator). This qualification prepares you to become an Early Years Educator, enabling you to work with children from birth to 5 years and gain knowledge of children aged 5 to 7 years.

You will study subjects around four themes: health and wellbeing; legislation, frameworks and professional practice; play, development and learning for school readiness; professional development.

As part of the qualification you will need to complete a study involving observing, assessing and planning for children's needs over an extended period of time. You will attend College 3 hours a week and must have a minimum of 15 hours' placement a week in a suitable setting (you will ideally be employed) and have a DBS.

A good standard of verbal and written English is also required to successfully complete the course with learners also being required to either have or have achieved by the end of the course a Level 2 or equivalent in maths and English. This course typically takes 12-18 months to complete. 

Level 4 Part Time: You will study the Level 4 Certificate for the Early Years Advanced Practitioner. This qualification is designed for experienced employed Level 3 Early Years Practitioners.

You will study subjects including: enabling children to learn; promoting health and wellbeing; special educational needs and working with families implementing change. You will attend College 3 hours per week and must be employed as a Level 3 Early Years Practitioner. This course typically takes 9 months to complete. 

How will I be assessed?

Level 2: the course is internally assessed using a range of methods, including observations within work placement, written assignments, a portfolio of evidence and professional discussions.

Level 3: there are several components to this qualification. All units are mandatory and are internally assessed using a range of methods, including direct observation within work placement, written assignments, a portfolio of evidence and professional discussions. You will also complete externally set assessments.

Level 3 Part Time: The course is internally assessed using a range of methods, including direct observation, written assignments, work products, portfolio of evidence and professional discussion. Your assessor/trainer/tutor is responsible for ensuring the evidence you provide meets the required standards through regular visits, contact and attendance in taught sessions. 

Level 4 Part Time: The course is internally assessed using a range of methods, including written assignments, work products, reflective practice, portfolio of evidence and professional discussion. Your assessor/trainer/tutor is responsible for ensuring the evidence provided meets the required standards through regular visits, contact and attendance in taught sessions.