Level 3 Early Years Workforce (Early Years Educator)
Course Overview
Course Type:
Available at:
SouthamptonCourse Area:
Course Duration:
Available at:
Southampton
The Course in Detail
This Level 3 Early Years Workforce (Early Years Educator) is for those working or wishing to work in early years education and care. It will prepare you to become an Early Years Educator, enabling you to work with children from birth to 5 years and gain knowledge of children up to 7 years.
Upon achievement of this qualification it is intended that, with this license to practice, you will be able to enter the workforce as an Early Years Educator.
This is a hybrid course which is delivered both online but with monthly in person sessions.
* Great news… if you’re aged 19 or over and earning less than £25,000 a year (gross salary), are unemployed, or if this is your first level 3 qualification, you may not have to pay for this course due to the National Skills Fund. Apply online now!
Financial Support
If you’re aged 19 or over and are starting a further education course at level 3 or above, you may qualify for an Advanced Learner Loan. This course is eligible for an Advanced Learner Loan.
There are 10 mandatory units including the role of early years education, safeguarding, play, learning and devleopment and children with SEND.
Assessment
To gain this qualification you will need to achieve the following:
- Pass all units inlcuding theory and workplace assessment competencies. Units will be internally assessed
- Longitudinal study (unit 3.15). This will be a mandatory task set by the awarding body. It will be internally assessed
- Competence in a real work environment
Important Notice
A place on your chosen course is not confirmed until enrolment is complete, and any relevant fees are paid. Adult course times, dates, durations and fees may be subject to change, and courses may be cancelled if minimum numbers are not met.
Entry Requirements & Progression
What You'll Need
- You will need to be working, volunteering or on a practical placement as an important part of the assessment process involves evaluating skills in real working situations. We recommend 350 hours across the age ranges
- GCSE English and Maths at grade 4/C or above, or Functional Skills Level 2 in English and Maths, or have at least one and completing the other alongside the course. Please note that while this can be taken alongside the qualification you will not be able to use the licence to practice without the required level.
- You will be required to attend a College interview prior to enrolling onto this course
This Could Lead to
Upon successful achievement of this qualification it is intended that, with this license to practice, you will be able to enter the workforce as an Early Years Educator.
You would also be able to go onto Higher Education in fields related to working with children such as teaching.
Come along to our Summer Fairs
We have summer fairs throughout June at all of our locations!
Come along and enjoy this community-focused event, filled with entertainment, activities, delicious food and experiences for everyone.
Click the button below to secure your free ticket today!
Availability & Enrolment
Course ID
P3231-2627-S-P1
Start Date
08/10/2026
Start Time
17:30
End Time
21:00
Day of Week
Thursday
Location
Southampton College
Total Fees
£4670
College Life & Student Support Services
College is not just about your course – it’s an opportunity to have fun, meet new people and explore your interests! You can socialise with friends in the café and comfy seating areas, join a club or sports team or attend exciting events around the college. Many of our enrichment opportunities are also great on your CV or UCAS application to demonstrate your commitment and enthusiasm outside of your studies.
Your time at college can also be affected by life or health difficulties, and it’s okay to need support. Our specialist teams are here every day to listen and give advice, whether it’s about career planning, financial support, mental health, or something else. And if you have a long-term support need or medical condition, we’ll work with you on personalised learning support to help you achieve your full potential.