About this qualification

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 five to seven years.

Upon achievement of this qualification, it is intended that learners will be able to enter the workforce as early years educators.

Nested qualification

This qualification is part of a nested suite:

• NCFE CACHE Level 3 Extended Diploma for Working in the Early Years Sector (Early Years Educator) (610/6133/5)

Bundle options

The following bundles are available for registration:

• Bundle option 1 - Early Years Educator Apprenticeship (with Functional Skills) (without First Aid) – APP2161
  • NCFE CACHE Level 3 Diploma for Working in the Early Years Sector (Early Years Educator) (610/4164/6)
  • NCFE Level 2 Functional Skills Qualification in English (603/5054/4)
  • NCFE Level 2 Functional Skills Qualification in Mathematics (603/5060/X)

• Bundle option 2 - Early Years Educator Apprenticeship Standard Bundle – Mandatory Qualifications Only – APP8490

• • NCFE CACHE Level 3 Diploma for Working in the Early Years Sector (Early Years Educator) (610/4164/6)
  • NCFE CACHE Level 3 Award in Paediatric First Aid (603/0752/3)

• Bundle option 3 - Early Years Educator Apprenticeship Standard Bundle – Mandatory Qualifications and Functional Skills – APP0203

• • NCFE CACHE Level 3 Diploma for Working in the Early Years Sector (Early Years Educator) (610/4164/6)
  • NCFE CACHE Level 3 Award in Paediatric First Aid (603/0752/3)
  • NCFE Level 2 Functional Skills Qualification in English (603/5054/4)
  • NCFE Level 2 Functional Skills Qualification in Mathematics (603/5060/X)

Who is it suitable for?

This qualification is designed for learners preparing to become early years educators.

What are the entry requirements?

Learners must be at least 16 years old. We do not set any other entry requirements but centres may have their own guidelines.

How is this qualification structured?

This qualification has 10 mandatory units.

How is it assessed?

The assessment for the qualification is an internally assessed and externally quality assured portfolio of evidence.

How many credits are required to complete it?

95 credits.

How long will it take to complete this qualification?

Learners can usually complete this qualification in 1 to 2 years.

Do you need to be working to take this qualification?

This qualification requires learners to complete a mandatory work/industry placement experience throughout the duration of the qualification, before certification. The total number of mandatory work placement hours is a minimum of 300 hours; however, it is recommended that learners undertake 350 hours where possible.

What related qualifications can you progress to?

• further education:
  • NCFE CACHE Level 5 Diploma for the Early Years Senior Practitioner
  • NCFE CACHE Level 3 Extended Diploma for Working in the Early Years Sector (Early Years Educator) (610/6133/5)
• higher education:
  • personal statements may be accepted by universities

Career opportunities

• educator in day nurseries
• educator in nursery schools
• educator in reception classes in primary schools
• pre-school worker

Funding for our qualifications

Find out more about funding for this and other qualifications on our funding page.