The Level 3 Diploma for Early Years Educator equips learners with the knowledge and practical skills to work with children from birth to 5 years in early years settings, in line with the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS).
Study online at your own pace and learn key topics including child development, safeguarding, SEND, health and safety, observation and assessment, and professional practice. The qualification also includes a mandatory work placement and practical assessment.
Career Opportunities
Successful learners may progress into roles such as:
- Early Years Educator
- Nursery Practitioner
- Preschool Practitioner
- Childcare Worker
- Teaching Assistant (Early Years)
- Childminder (subject to local registration requirements)
Qualification Specification
| Requirement | Value |
|---|---|
| Total Credits | 64 |
| Mandatory Units | 9 |
| Optional Units Required | 2 |
| Mandatory Credits | 46 |
| Optional Credits | 18 |
| Group | URN | Unit Title | Lvl | GLH | Cr |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mandatory | A/506/1236 | Develop Effective and Informed Professional Practice in Early Years Settings | 3 | 13 | 4 |
| D/506/1231 | Understand Children’s Early Years Education and Development | 3 | 43 | 9 | |
| F/506/1237 | Promote the Health, Safety and Well-being of Children in Early Years Settings | 3 | 20 | 4 | |
| H/506/1232 | Implementing Early Years Foundation Stage | 3 | 26 | 6 | |
| J/506/1238 | Child Protection and Safeguarding | 3 | 31 | 5 | |
| K/506/1233 | Diversity, Equality and Inclusion in Early Years Settings | 3 | 23 | 5 | |
| L/506/1239 | Partnership Working in Early Years | 3 | 16 | 3 | |
| M/506/1234 | Plan and Provide Effective Teaching and Learning in Early Years Settings | 3 | 26 | 5 | |
| T/506/1235 | Make Accurate and Productive Use of Assessment in Early Years Settings | 3 | 23 | 5 | |
| Optional | A/506/1253 | Working Within a Social Pedagogic Framework With Children | 3 | 35 | 5 |
| D/506/1245 | Coordinate Special Educational Needs Provision | 4 | 20 | 4 | |
| F/506/1240 | Understanding How to Promote Play and Learning in the Early Years | 3 | 60 | 9 | |
| H/506/1246 | Understand the Needs of Children Who Are Vulnerable and Experiencing Poverty and Disadvantage | 4 | 40 | 5 | |
| J/506/1241 | Support Children’s Outdoor Play | 3 | 27 | 4 | |
| K/506/1247 | Support Disabled Children and Children with Specific Requirements | 4 | 45 | 6 | |
| K/506/1250 | Care for the Physical and Nutritional Needs of Babies and Young Children | 3 | 45 | 6 | |
| L/506/1242 | Understand How to Work With Children in Home-Based Care | 3 | 60 | 9 | |
| M/506/1248 | Support the Use of Medication | 3 | 40 | 5 | |
| M/506/1251 | Support the Development of Positive Behaviour in Children | 3 | 22 | 3 | |
| R/506/1243 | Managing a Home-Based Childcare Business | 3 | 30 | 5 | |
| T/506/1249 | Support Children at Meal or Snack Times | 2 | 18 | 3 | |
| T/506/1252 | Contribute to Effective Team Working in Health and Social Care or Children’s Settings | 3 | 25 | 4 | |
| Y/506/1244 | Lead and Manage a Community Based Early Years Setting | 4 | 45 | 6 |
Additional Free Resources
- Assessment Plans for Each Unit: Clear guidance for completing each assignment and task.
- Micro-Teach Guidance: Support for planning, delivering, and evaluating your micro-teach session.
- Tutor Support: On-demand tutor assistance throughout your studies.
- Guidance on Purchasing Recommended Books: Advice on choosing useful textbooks for your qualification.
