Qualifi | Regulated Qualification | RQF Level 3 | 6 months - 12 months | Online (Self-Paced) | Instalment plans
Start your career in early childhood education with a nationally recognised qualification designed to develop your skills in supporting young children’s learning and development.
The Qualifi Level 3 Diploma in Early Years Education and Care (Early Years Educator) is perfect for anyone starting or growing a career in childcare.
Graduates can progress to Qualifi Level 4 qualifications or enter employment as nursery practitioners, pre-school workers, reception class assistants, or nannies in day nurseries and primary schools.
Be the first to react.
Start your career in early childhood education with a nationally recognised qualification designed to develop your skills in supporting young children’s learning and development. This Level 3 diploma provides the practical knowledge and professional understanding required to work effectively in childcare and early years settings. Build solid foundations for progression into higher-level study or employment in the early years sector.
16 units
Start strong in early childhood education with skills that make a real impact.
The Level 3 Diploma in Early Years Education and Care (Early Years Educator) empowers learners to work effectively with children from birth to 5 years, while also developing an understanding of children aged 5 to 7 years. With a Total Qualification Time (TQT) of 830 hours and 525 Guided Learning Hours (GLH), this programme offers a well-structured pathway to gaining both practical and theoretical expertise. Learners strengthen their ability to support early development while building essential professional skills.
This nationally recognised qualification is designed for individuals looking to start or advance a career in childcare and early education. Carrying 83 credit hours, the course equips learners with the knowledge and confidence to create safe, engaging, and nurturing environments. It also encourages both academic growth and professional development, helping learners unlock their full potential while contributing meaningfully to early years settings.
Throughout the course, learners develop key competencies in safeguarding, inclusive practice, and supporting children’s emotional, social, and physical development. Special focus areas include promoting healthy lifestyles and understanding special educational needs, including autism. This Level 3 Diploma in Early Years Education and Care ensures learners gain relevant, modern skills that align with industry expectations and enhance career opportunities.
Recognised by Qualifi, a respected UK awarding organisation, this diploma prepares learners to work effectively in nurseries, preschools, and childcare centres and provides a strong foundation for further study or career progression within the early years education sector. This qualification is awarded by Qualifi, an Ofqual-regulated awarding body, and is not listed on the DfE Early Years Qualifications List (EYQL). For any queries regarding EYQL recognition, learners may contact the awarding body directly.
Course Details
The Qualifi Level 3 Diploma in Early Years Education and Care (Early Years Educator) comprises 15 mandatory units with a combined total of 83 credits, Total Qualification Time (TQT) of 830 hours and 525 Guided Learning Hours (GLH). All units and evidence of RWE must be completed to receive the Diploma.
Qualification Accreditation Number (QAN): 610/0013/6
Unit Reference Mandatory Units Level Credits GLH TQT 1.L/650/0038 Supporting healthy lifestyles for children through food, nutrition and exercise 2 4 22 40 2.M/650/0039 Supporting physical care routines for children and for unwell children 2 4 24 40 3.Y/650/0040 Promoting children’s emotional well-being, social and emotional development 3 7 45 70 4.A/650/0041 Understanding the needs of the mother and baby pre-conception, during pregnancy and the first year of life 3 3 15 30 5.K/650/0046 The role of the Early Years practitioner 2 2 10 20 6. L/650/0047 Legislation relating to Early Years practice 3 9 60 90 7.M/650/0048 Working in partnership 3 3 20 30 8.R/650/0049 Supporting children through play in Early Years 3 14 90 140 9. A/650/0050 Developing the literacy, mathematical and communication skills of children 3 10 70 100 10.D/650/0051 Understand the needs of the child in preparing for school 3 2 12 20 11.F/650/0052 Understanding children’s cognitive development 2 5 30 50 12.H/650/0053 Promoting the physical development of children 3 4 25 40 13.J/650/0054 Supporting children with additional needs 3 4 25 40 14.K/650/0055 Using studies and tools to promote the development of children 3 10 65 100 15.L/650/0056 Professional development for Early Years Educators 3 2 12 20 Totals 83 525 830Accreditation
The Qualifi Level 3 Diploma in Early Years Education and Care (Early Years Educator) is accredited on the Regulated Qualifications Framework (RQF). Each unit has its own RQF code, and the full course carries the Qualification Accreditation Number (QAN): 610/0013/6, shown on the final certificate.
Qualifi is a UK awarding organisation approved and regulated by Ofqual (RN5160), ensuring high standards and quality in vocational education. LCFT Business School offers this regulated qualification, giving learners a trusted pathway into early years education.
Assessment
This qualification assesses both knowledge and competence, so learners must be working or on placement in a school. Competence can be shown through observations, reflective accounts, work products, professional discussions, and activity records. Mature or part-time learners may also use relevant work experience. Each unit includes assignments based on the required Learning Outcomes (LOs) and Assessment Criteria (ACs), and tasks are designed to reflect real responsibilities in school settings.
All units are internally assessed by LCFT Business School and externally verified by Qualifi. The qualification is criterion-referenced, meaning learners must meet all learning outcomes and assessment criteria to achieve a pass. Assessors review each submission to confirm that learners have met the required standards and demonstrated the skills needed to support teaching and learning effectively.
Graduates can progress to Qualifi Level 4 qualifications or enter employment as nursery practitioners, pre-school workers, reception class assistants, or nannies in day nurseries and primary schools.
No questions yet. Be the first to ask the provider.
No reviews yet.
This course is advertised on UpskillUni by the course provider, whose terms and conditions apply. Purchases are made directly from the course provider, and content and materials are supplied by them. UpskillUni acts as an agent to facilitate your payment. Please review the provider's terms and satisfy yourself as to the suitability of the course before purchasing.
Related: Teaching & Childcare courses Early Years courses All LCFT Business School courses