Level 3 Diploma for the Early Years Workforce (Early Years Educator)

What opportunities will this course give me?

IMPORTANT NOTICE - As from September 2024, a Centre of Excellence in Early Years will be created at the City College Southampton campus. This course will therefore be delivered at City College Southampton. The Apply Now link at the bottom of this page will re-direct you to their course information page and application form.

The Level 3 Early Years Educator (EYE) work-based learner Diploma is designed for those interested in working as an Early Years Educator, Nursery Teaching Assistant, Nursery Nurse, Supervisor, or Child Minder.
It is appropriate for someone who is currently employed in or seeking employment in an early childhood childcare and education setting.

Early Childhood Educators deal with and care for children ranging in age from birth to 7 years. They play a critical role in ensuring that children get the best possible start in school. According to research, disadvantaged children are four months behind at age five, ten months behind at age eleven, and 19 months behind at age sixteen. As an Early Childhood specialist, you will personally contribute to closing the gap and improving the life prospects of the children with whom you work.

You will be issued the Level 3 Early Years Educator Diploma upon successful completion of your qualification. Learners will earn an EYE qualification that can be used to meet the EYFS level 3 child-to-staff ratio requirements.

We understand how critical it is to locate learners who are the right fit for your early childhood environment, that they receive ongoing support, and that you are kept informed of their development at all times. By enrolling at Eastleigh College, students can be confident that they will be supported every step of the way to ensure their success in both the programme and their profession.

What will I be learning?

Learners will be required to complete 350 recommended placement hours in an Early Years setting.

Future Career progression roles include: a practitioner in day nurseries, childminders, pre-school workers, practitioner in Nursery schools, practitioner in reception classes in primary schools.

To achieve the Early Years Educator Level 3 diploma, learners must study 23 mandatory units, structured around three themes:

• Theme 1: Health and well-being

• Theme 2: Legislation, frameworks and professional practice

• Theme 3: Play, development and learning for school readiness

• Safeguarding

Learners completing Early Childhood Educators learn how to:

Early childhood education and development should be supported and promoted.
Plan and deliver high-quality care, education, and learning that allows children to advance and prepares them for school.
Use assessment in a way that is both accurate and productive.
Create an efficient and well-informed practice.
Protect and promote children's health, safety, and well-being.
Learn to work in collaboration with key workers as well as other professionals in the field.

Why is this course for me?

A variety of teaching methods will be used including whole class, group work, team work, pair work, discussions, exercises, and handouts.

All units will be internally assessed using a range of methods, which could include written assignments or tasks such as designing a leaflet or booklet, posters, charts or diagrams, or setting up an information board.

Level 3 would suit you if you are currently working in a role where you are following the EYFS, carry out regular child observations and deliver planned activities for children under 5 years. This course is ideal if you want to learn how to promote childrens physical, emotional and social development.