# OTHM Level 5 Diploma in Early Childhood Education > The OTHM Level 5 Diploma in Early Childhood Education is an Ofqual-regulated Level 5 diploma in Early Childhood Education worth 120 credits, delivered online and flexibly by LSIB, an OTHM approved centre. It is equivalent to Year 2 of a UK bachelor's degree. Most learners complete it in one year, studying part-time around work. - Course page: https://upskilluni.com/courses/othm-level-5-diploma-in-early-childhood-education/123 - Provider: [LSIB Diploma Courses](https://upskilluni.com/providers/lsib-diploma-courses) - Price: £950, buy online - Study method: Online - Duration: 9 months · Self-paced - Level: Intermediate - Qualification: Level 5 Diploma in Early Childhood Education - Includes: tutor support, certificate, finance options - Subjects: [Teaching & Childcare](https://upskilluni.com/courses/teaching-and-childcare), [Early Years](https://upskilluni.com/courses/early-years) - Last updated: 2026-11-12 ## Description The objective of the OTHM Level 5 Diploma in Early Childhood Education is intended to develop the learners’ understanding of a wide range of topics relevant to early childhood development theories. The focus of this qualification is on understanding both developmental patterns and sequences in children’s development, and how the context of this impacts on children’s progress. Learners will engage with foundational theories and models that have shaped understanding of child development, and contemporary theory that explores emerging trends in early childhood education. The qualification is focused on how young children develop through being active in the world around them, how they explore, observe and experience the world through all their senses. To scaffold this, learners will study how to best create environments which support learning and the current pedagogical practices, understanding the need for adapting provision to meet the needs of individual children. Other topics include personal, social and emotional development, children’s learning processes, from play based learning to cognitive milestones; and working with parents and families. The learner will also engage in understanding how children form their identities, and regulate emotions, developmental milestones, individual differences, and supporting children’s growth. The learner will also be able to understand the support required for children who may need additional support to enable them to maintain developmental progress and to learn. Successful completion of this qualification will allow learners to progress to further study in Early Years professional settings. ## Curriculum - Exploring Early Years Pedagogy and Best Practices - Understanding Child Behaviour: Theoretical Perspectives and Insights - Inclusion and Diversity: Supporting Children with Special Needs and Disabilities in Early Education - Safeguarding, Child Protection and Keeping Children Safe - Emerging Literacies in the Early Years and Digital Resources - Understanding Transitions in Early Childhood ## Who is this course for? This Level 5 diploma suits learners who hold a Level 4 qualification or equivalent experience and want second-year degree-level knowledge in early childhood education. Study fully online with tutor support from LSIB, with no fixed timetable. Assessment by assignments, so you can evidence learning from your own workplace. This qualification carries 120 credits, a full level of study, so you can progress one level at a time. ## Entry requirements These qualifications are designed for learners who are typically aged 18 and above. The entry profile for learners is likely to include at least one of the following: Relevant Level 4 qualification or equivalent qualification GCE Advanced level in 3 subjects or equivalent qualification Mature learners (over 21) with relevant management experience (learners must check with the delivery centre regarding this experience prior to registering for the programme) English requirements: If a learner is not from a majority English-speaking country, they must provide evidence of English language competency. For more information visit the English Language Expectations page on the OTHM… ## Certificates OTHM Qualifications certificate for the Level 5 Diploma in Early Childhood Education (Ofqual qualification number 610/4872/0). Registration and certification fees are included in the course fee. ## Career path Learners who achieve this qualification could progress into employment as an assessor or onto to further qualifications For more information visit University Progressions page. ## Funding Standard mode (9 months): £950. Fast-track mode (6 months): £1,250. Pay monthly or quarterly in instalments, or pay in full and save 5%. A £10 enrolment fee is paid on application.