NCFE CACHE Level 3 Technical Occupational Entry for the Early Years Workforce (Early Years Educator)

This course is for people already working in the Early Years sector who want to gain a Level 3 Early Years Educator qualification without doing an apprenticeship. When you complete the course, you’ll achieve your licence to practise.

If you have been working in the industry for at least three months and hold a Level 2 English qualification, this course will enable you to gain your licence to practise.

This qualification aims to:

• Focus on the study of early years education
• Provide comprehensive knowledge covering key areas of the sector
• Offer opportunities to develop practical and technical skills.

The main objectives of the qualification are to:

• Confirm your occupational competence and licence to practise
• Ensure you meet the required standard of competence in your professional role.

This course covers key areas essential to the role of an Early Years Educator. You will gain a solid understanding of holistic child development, including how to support children with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND). The course also emphasises effective communication, safeguarding, welfare, health, wellbeing, and safety within early years settings.

You will explore how to promote a strong early years curriculum and assess children’s learning and development. Understanding the importance of play in learning and overall development is also a key focus. Additionally, the course covers working in partnership with families and other professionals to support children’s needs.

Assessment will be through a variety of methods, including written assignments, presentations, observations in your workplace, and professional discussions.

Successful completion of this course will open the door to further progression, such as enrolling on a Level 5 qualification. It also provides a solid foundation for those wishing to continue their studies in Higher Education, offering opportunities to advance your career and deepen your expertise in the early years sector.

The college works closely with Early Years settings and has collaborated with them to design an effective, industry-relevant curriculum. Through our Health & Social Care Academy, we maintain strong partnerships with employers, providing valuable opportunities for placements and real-world experience. We also have close links with universities, offering support such as campus visits and guidance with personal statements to help you progress to higher education.

We have a team of staff dedicated to providing learning support if it is required and a Wellbeing Team that are on hand to offer guidance, support and help when needed.

Additionally, eligible students can access a wide range of finance and funding support to help them during their time at college. For personalised advice on funding, please contact our Learner Services Team on 01925 494 400 or email learner.services@wvr.ac.uk.

This course is delivered through our Health & Social Care Academy by expert tutors who bring extensive industry knowledge. The curriculum has been carefully designed in collaboration with employers and industry partners, ensuring you gain the skills and experience needed to succeed in the early years sector. Our strong employer partnerships also provide valuable opportunities for real-world placements, enhancing your learning and career prospects.

To study this course, you need to be currently working in an Early Years setting with at least three months’ experience in an early years or school environment. You’ll also need to hold a GCSE in English at grade 4 (level 2) or an equivalent qualification. These requirements ensure you have the right foundation to succeed and make the most of your learning journey.

Yes, there are some additional costs you should be aware of. One key requirement is the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check, which is essential for anyone working with children to ensure your suitability for the role. The cost of the DBS check is typically payable by the student or employer, depending on your specific arrangement. Other potential costs may include any required uniform or protective equipment, as well as materials for certain practical activities.