Working in the Early Years Sector (Early Years Educator) Level 3 Diploma

Over the duration of this course you will develop the knowledge, behaviours and skills required for work and care for children from birth to 5 years, and you will gain knowledge of children aged 5 to 7 years. You will learn about safeguarding and protection, and the legislation and quality standards the sector operates within. You will learn about the Early Years Foundation stage standards for learning and development. You will develop industry required knowledge skills and behaviours around four key themes: health and wellbeing, play, development and learning for school readiness, legislation, frameworks and professional practice.

Typically, you will have prior knowledge and experience of working in this sector. Ideally you will have a minimum of Level 2/Grade 4 in English and or Maths. For this qualification you are likely to be employed or have an employer willing to support a work placement with Level 3 work activities for minimum 16 hours per week for the duration of the course.

From September 2026 all employed and volunteer applicants will need to have an Enhanced Children's Workforce DBS that is approved by their employer or placement host before starting a placement.  If this is not in place you will not be able to start the course.  You will also need a letter/email from the employer/placement host, confirming their support for the duration of the course and permission for the assessments to take place.