The Level 3 Diploma in Technical Occupational Entry for the Early Years Workforce gives you the knowledge and understanding to become an Early Years Educator, working with children from birth to 5, with some knowledge of ages 5 to 7. Suited to learners working, volunteering or on placement in early years settings, you’ll graduate fully qualified. It’s fully funded for eligible learners in Greater London, Surrey and Buckinghamshire.
You must be working, volunteering or on a practical placement, so you can apply your knowledge and skills to meet the qualification’s assessment criteria in a real working environment. You’ll pass all units and complete a longitudinal study to show competence in practice. This ensures you graduate fully equipped to create nurturing environments and tailor your approach to each child’s individual needs.
This is a guide to the eligibility criteria for our funded courses. If you are unsure whether you are eligible, please get in touch with our team and we will be happy to help.
If employed, learners must meet the relevant earnings threshold for their area and course level:
Eligibility is subject to individual circumstances and will be confirmed as part of the enrolment process.
This course is fully free for eligible adults aged 19 and over living in London, Surrey or Buckinghamshire, funded through the Adult Skills Fund. Learners must also be employed in or have access to a suitable Early Years placement so they can complete the practical assessment requirements of the qualification.
Yes, this is a full and relevant Level 3 qualification recognised by the Department for Education for working in Early Years settings. Successful learners are qualified to work with children from birth to five years and can be counted within statutory staff to child ratios in eligible Early Years settings.
The qualification develops the knowledge and practical skills needed to support children’s learning, development and wellbeing from birth to five years while understanding children’s needs up to age seven. It covers child development, safeguarding, health and safety, observation and assessment, inclusion, partnership working and planning activities that support children’s progress.
The qualification can support progression into roles including Early Years Educator, Nursery Practitioner, Preschool Practitioner, Childcare Practitioner, Room Leader and Childminder. Learners can also progress to higher level training including the Level 4 Certificate for the Early Years Advanced Practitioner, Level 5 Early Years Lead Practitioner Apprenticeship and Early Years Teacher Status pathways.
Most learners complete the qualification within 12 to 18 months through flexible blended learning, combining online learning, workplace practice and dedicated tutor or assessor support. Assessment includes a portfolio of evidence, professional discussions, assignments and workplace observations, allowing learners to demonstrate their knowledge and practical competence within an Early Years environment.
