Early Years Educator, Level 3

Is this course for me?

Early Years Educators are valued professionals with high-quality qualifications who play a key role in ensuring that young children learn and develop well and are kept healthy and safe. They will support the early education and care of young children in a range of settings including:

• Full day care
• Children’s centres
• Pre-schools
• Child minding

In many circumstances, they act as a key person, helping to ensure that children’s learning and care are tailored to meet their individual needs. They also engage and support parents/carers in guiding their child’s development at home and help families engage with more specialist support if appropriate. They adhere to early years statutory frameworks and related requirements to uphold and give due regard to equalities, diversity, inclusion, anti-discrimination and human rights.

Study Overview

Knowledge and Skills: Early Years Educators must be able to support and promote children’s early education and development as well as plan and provide effective care, teaching, and learning that will enable children to progress and prepare them for school. The apprentice needs to be able to make accurate and productive use of assessment and develop effective and informed practice. They need to be able to safeguard and promote the health, safety, and welfare of children, as well as work in partnership with colleagues, carers, and other professionals. Early Years Educators should be able to handle food safely, respond appropriately to accidents and injuries and support children’s use of ICT.

Expectations: An Early Years Educator Apprentice will be expected to:

• Provide the very best childcare to every child, every day
• Gain the ability to professionally challenge poor practice
• Work effectively with colleagues and other professionals whilst supporting the learning and development of others
• Develop trust by working in a confidential, ethical, and empathetic manner with common sense and a professional attitude
• Commit to improving the outcomes for children through inspiration and child-centred care and education
• Be aware of differences and ensure all children have equal access to opportunities to learn, develop, and reach their full potential

Progression and Employment Opportunities

Potential to advance to Early Years Teacher Status or to a Foundation Degree.