Childcare and Education (Early Years Educator)

You should be at least 16 years old. We do not set any other entry requirements but colleges or training providers may have their own guidelines.

From 3 April 2017, the requirement for Level 3 Early Years Educators (EYE) to hold GCSE English and maths A*-C, will be broadened to Level 2 qualifications, including Functional Skills. This will also apply to an apprenticeship route. This will enable staff with an EYE qualification and Level 2 English and mathematics qualifications to count in the Level 3 staff:child ratios in childcare settings. This includes those who already hold an EYE qualification, began studying an EYE from September 2014 or will achieve an EYE in the future. Please refer to the Early Years Workforce Strategy (March 2017) for further details.

This qualification is suitable for a range of learners either working or wishing to work in early years education and care. The Diploma is also suitable for those wishing to progress to higher education.

In order to achieve the Level 3 Diploma in Childcare and Education (Early Years Educator) learners must complete 15 mandatory units, including all the criteria learners must know about which is contained within the delivery guidance. Learners must also complete an Effective Practise Study Task and one Extended Assessment (externally set, externally marked).

Assessment Opportunities

Assessment opportunities for all the externally set and marked assessments for the Certificate and Diploma will be limited to one attempt and one further reattempt opportunity to undertake an alternative assessment.

There are two early exit points; the first on achievement of the Award and the second on achievement of the Certificate.

Each unit throughout the qualification will be graded A*-D with the qualification overall grading being A* - D.