The Level 3 Diploma for Early Years Care and Education (Early Years Educator) is designed to help learners develop the skills and knowledge needed to be a proficient and competent Early Years Educator, allowing them to work as a qualified practitioner with children from birth to five years old. If you are looking to begin your career in childcare and gain the skills to work at a level 3 ratio within an early years setting, this diploma is for you.
Over 12 months, learners will study 830 guided learning hours, which include research, reading, and workplace activities, with 16 hours per week required working in an early years setting throughout the programme. The course is delivered through blended learning methods, with remote teaching masterclasses held each month, one-to-one sessions with a delivery coach, and a minimum of two face-to-face observations by a development coach in the workplace. Learners will also be required to submit monthly tasks, and witness testimonies will be required from the employer during the programme. There are funding options available for this course.
During their studies, individuals will learn about safeguarding and child protection, health and safety, partnership working, and record keeping, as well as learning foundations to support continued professional development. To support the children they work with, learners will develop an understanding of child development, attachment and transitions, play and curriculum, and self-regulation and emotional wellbeing.
By studying the Level 3 Diploma for Early Years Care and Education (Early Years Educator), learners will have the opportunity to tailor their learning by choosing when and where they study, develop their personal career pathway, and gain a nationally recognised TQUK qualification.
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Frequently Asked Questions
A Level 3 early years care and education (early years educator) diploma is a nationally recognised qualification that prepares you to work as a qualified practitioner with children from birth to five years old. It equips you with the knowledge and practical skills needed to support children’s learning, development and wellbeing in early years settings, allowing you to work at a Level 3 ratio.
This diploma is ideal if you are starting out or looking to develop your career in early years education. It is suited to those working with, or wanting to work with, children from birth to five years old. If you are passionate about supporting young children and want a flexible programme that combines learning with hands-on experience, this diploma is a great choice for both learners and employers.
You don’t need prior qualifications to get started, but you should have access to an early years setting to complete practical elements so you can apply your learning in real situations. A genuine interest in working with young children and supporting their development is key to success.
The diploma typically takes around 12 months to complete, although it can be finished sooner depending on your progress. It includes blended learning, combining remote study with workplace experience, monthly masterclasses, and observations, making it manageable alongside your role.
You’ll cover key areas such as child development, safeguarding, health and safety, and supporting children’s learning through play and curriculum. The course also explores communication, emotional wellbeing, observation and assessment, and working in partnership with families. Overall, it gives you the skills and confidence to support children’s growth and development effectively in an early years setting.
