The Course

This qualification is designed to provide students with the essential knowledge and practical skills needed to support the care and development of babies and young children from birth to 7 years, with a particular focus on the early years (birth to 5 years). The course is aligned with the Department for Education’s Early Years Practitioner criteria and meets the requirements of the Early Years Practitioner occupational standard in England.

Students will gain an understanding of child development, safeguarding, health and safety, and the importance of play in supporting learning. Alongside classroom-based study, students are required to complete a mandatory placement of 250 hours in an Early Years setting. This ensures that skills are applied in a real-world environment and supports the development of professional practice.

This course offers a balance of theoretical knowledge and practical application, preparing students for employment as an Early Years Practitioner or for progression to further study. This qualification is internally assessed and externally quality assured via a portfolio of evidence. This will include independent and group work assignments and presentations as well as observations of practice in a real world setting. The course also includes 250 hours and mandatory placement in an Early Years setting.