Course Entry Requirements

You will need five GCSEs at grade 4 or above including GCSE English Language and GCSE Maths. You will also be required to complete a DBS check.

Introduction

This is a two year course which is equivalent to three A Levels. It will allow you to develop your knowledge across topics such as child development, safeguarding and special educational needs, as well as learning about the role of families and support agencies. These topics allow you to delve into the specifics of social interaction, how language is acquired and understanding behaviour.  

What you will study

  • Topics such as child development, safeguarding and special educational needs
  • The role of families and support agencies
  • The specifics of social interaction, how language is acquired and understanding behaviour
  • One occupational specialism, either Early Years Educator or Assisting Teaching
  • Relationship building and promoting play, development and early education
  • How to become a collaborative and reflective practitioner

Course Structure

The technical qualification is split into 2 component parts:

Core component: the knowledge and underpinning concepts, theories and principles as well as core skills for the education and early years sector.
Occupational specialisms:  Early Years Educator or  Assisting Teaching

Students will only complete one occupational specialism. The occupational specialisms provide students with knowledge and skills required to enter employment or further study in the specific occupational area.

Assessments

Year one: You will sit two written exams covering the core content as well as an employer set project. 

Year two: You will undertake different synoptic assignments, for the Early Years Educator pathway one assessment will involve observations on work placement.

Experience in the workplace

Industry placements are intended to provide students with the opportunity to develop the knowledge, skills and behaviours required for skilled employment in their chosen occupation which are less easily attainable by doing a qualification alone.

Progression

If you choose the Early Years Educator specialism, this will enable you to enter the workplace as a qualified Level 3 Early Years Educator. Other progression options include studying degrees such as Early Childhood/ Education Studies, Early Years, Primary and Secondary Teaching.

Exam Board

NCFE