Education and Early Years (Early Years Educator) – Level 3

You will ordinarily require a minimum of GCSE grade 4 or above in English and maths, as well as 5 further GCSEs at grade 5 or above.

You may also be required to participate in an assessment to ensure suitability ahead of enrolment.

On successful completion of this course, you will achieve an NCFE Level 3 T Level in Education and Childcare (Early Years Educator).

You will study the following core elements in Year One:

• Wider education sector
• Supporting education
• Safeguarding, equality, diversity and wellbeing
• Special educational needs and disabilities (SEND)
• Child development
• Working in partnership
• Professional practice

You will also complete occupational specialism components (Early Years Educator) in Year Two such as:

• Support and promote children's play, development and early education
• Develop relationships with children to facilitate their development
• Plan, provide and review care, play and educational opportunities to enable children to progress
• Safeguard and promote the health, safety and wellbeing of children
• Work in partnership with colleagues, parents, carers and other professionals to support children's development
  
  

As part of your two year programme, you will participate in regular tutorials, one to ones, practical sessions, a full enrichment program and engage with guest speakers and workshops. You will acquire core skills across both years which will developed in placement.

Alongside your studies, you will undertake a substantial work experience placement of at least 750 hours.

• Group work

• Theory sessions

• Work placement

• Employer-set project (ESP).

Year One

• Initial assessment at the start of the year

• Formative assessments and mini mocks throughout the year

• One core exam in June which is externally marked

• An employer set project (ESP) with presentation which is externally marked

• Two observations at placement to assess holistic development and competencies

Year Two

• Initial assessment at the start of the year
• Three assignments marked both internally and externally
• Formative assessment and practice papers throughout the year
• Three observations at placement

Work experience is an important part of your T-Level. You will undertake a substantial industry placement with an employer for a minimum of 750 hours during your course to help you prepare for your next steps. You will also undertake an employer-set project as part of the course.

English, maths and digital skills are vital to all roles in education and childcare and these are embedded throughout the course to help you prepare for working in the industry.

On successful completion of your T Level, you will have a full Level 3 licence to practice in Primary Education and Early Years. You will also be guaranteed a place on a relevant degree course at Newcastle College University Centre.

If you are aged 16-18 when you begin your course, you are likely to be eligible for free tuition. Detailed information can be found within the financial support section. 

There will be a small payment due at the beginning of the year to cover trips and enrichment activities. This course cost will be covered by the college if you are eligible for a bursary.