Course Overview

This qualification is for those who want to train in Early Years Education. It prepares adult learners with the knowledge, skills, and understanding needed to work in early years settings and be included in staff-to-child ratios. It meets the Department for Education's Early Years Educator (DfE EYE) criteria and aligns with the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) Framework. Employers in the early years sector officially recognise this qualification.
The course includes a mandatory work placement throughout its duration. Learners will be observed holistically during their placements and will have support from a Work Placement Officer. It is recommended that learners complete 350 hours of placement, with a minimum of 300 hours. The qualification covers children from birth to 5 years old, with additional knowledge of children up to 7 years old.
Learning will take place one day per week in the classroom, one early evening session online, and within an early years setting.

What You Will Study

10 modules are covered consisting of:
Introduction to the role of the early years educator
Holistic child development
Children with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND)
Effective communication in an early years setting
Safeguarding and welfare requirements
Health, wellbeing and safety
Promoting an effective early years curriculum
Assessment of children’s learning and development
Understanding play for holistic development and learning
Partnership working
Each module has criteria linked to placement where you show you are able to evidence your learning practically

  • Attendance Expectations

    Learning will take place one day per week in the classroom, one early evening session online, and within an early years setting. You are expected to attend all sessions both face to face and online and attend 12 hours of placement per week.

  • How You Will Be Assessed

    Learners will complete a portfolio of evidence alongside continuous assessment which includes written tasks and activities, case studies and project work and observations in placement.

  • Entry Requirements

    A successful interview and GCSE Grade 4 or equivalent in English. You should have an interest in the subject, and experience of working in the Early Years sector will also be considered.

  • Fee Information

    If you are 19 or over and do not already have a Level 3 qualification or higher, you may be able to access this qualification for free with us. If you are not eligible for a free Level 3 course, an Advanced Learner Loan may be available to cover your course fees.

  • Further Study

Childcare, Early Years & Childhood Studies at Castleford College

Industry links

We have strong links with local nurseries, daycare providers and schools where some of our students complete their placement hours and gain valuable experience.

Childcare student in the classroom

Fun ways to learn

Our students are always experiencing new ways to learn so that they can apply this to their own practice. Each year we take our students to local Forest Schools where they learn the importance of learning outdoors, team building and problem solving.

Students on an outdoor camping residential

Enrichment

Our students get the opportunity to go on enrichment trips such as Yorkshire Wildlife Park and Scarborough Beach to celebrate all their hard work over the year.

Students on seaside beachresidential