Course Overview
The aim of this qualification is to prepare learners to become early years educators, enabling them to work with children from birth to five years and gain knowledge of children aged 5 to 7 years.
Upon achievement of this qualification, it is intended that learners will be able to enter the workforce as early years educators and be included in staff to child ratios
This qualification aims to focus on the study of early years education, offer breadth and depth of study, whilst incorporating a key core of knowledge to provide opportunities to acquire a number of practical and technical skills.
Topics may include:
- Introduction to the role of the Early Years Educator
- Holistic child development
- Children with special educational needs and disabilities
- 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 learning and holistic development
- Partnership working.
Assessment Methods
Assessment is through written assignments, and observations/professional discussions conducted by your tutor. You will be encouraged to reflect on your own early years practice.
Progression Options
Learners who achieve this qualification could progress directly into employment, such as an educator in day nurseries, nursery schools, reception classes, and pre-school work.
Alternatively, you could progress to Level 4 qualifications in early years and childcare or into higher education at university, such as University Centre Somerset.
Entry Requirements
You need at least English and maths passes at Level 2/GCSE, and an appropriate Level 2 qualification in early years. Applicants without maths Level 2/GCSE will be considered at interview.
Frequently Asked Questions
You can apply directly on any of the UCS College Group websites, whether you wish to study at Bridgwater College, Cannington College, Strode College, or Taunton College. Simply use our “Find a Course” feature and follow the on-screen instructions – be sure to have your important information to hand.
We aim to offer a careers service that is accessible to everyone. We will seek to equip all our students with the skills and knowledge that will enable them to operate confidently, effectively, and independently in life and work. All students have the opportunity to meet with a Careers Advisor for 1:1 career support.
The Student Experience Team can mentor and signpost students who are struggling with a range of issues that are negatively impacting their day-to-day life. The Student Experience Team works closely with the Safeguarding & Lifestyle Teams to promote proactive wellbeing enrichment sessions. The team can refer on to counselling when appropriate.
We provide top-quality workshops and teaching areas across our Colleges for subjects such as art, design and media, hair and beauty, catering, automotive engineering and construction. You can review our campus facilities by navigating to the “College Life” section of our websites.
For us, the success of our students always comes first. By investing in our built environment, we are investing in your future.
All of our students will have a personal tutor to support them with their academic progress and personal development. The tutorial programme consists of 1:1 support, group tutorials and guest speakers, plus targeted online resources which complement the UCS College Group Advantage scheme.
The Safeguarding Team can offer advice and guidance on anything that may be affecting your young person and their studies – no problem is too big or too small!
Please email our Safeguarding team at staysafe@ucscollegegroup.ac.uk. If you query is urgent, please come to the College Reception and ask to speak to a Safeguarding Officer.
If you cannot find an answer to your question in this FAQ section, you can ask us a question by visiting our Contact Us page.
