# Qualifi Level 4 Diploma in Early Learning and Childcare

> Advance your expertise in supporting young children’s learning and wellbeing with the Qualifi Level 4 Diploma in Early Learning and Childcare. This qualification deepens your understanding of child development and prepares you to plan, lead, and deliver high-quality early years practice in a range of professional settings.

- Course page: https://upskilluni.com/courses/qualifi-level-4-diploma-in-early-learning-and-childcare/687
- Provider: [LCFT Business School](https://upskilluni.com/providers/lcft-business-school)
- Price: £629 (was £856), buy online
- Study method: Online
- Duration: 12 months · Self-paced
- Level: Intermediate
- Qualification: Qualifi Level 4 Diploma in Early Learning and Childcare (QAN 610/0227/6)
- Includes: tutor support, exam, certificate, finance options
- Subjects: [Teaching & Childcare](https://upskilluni.com/courses/teaching-and-childcare), [Early Years](https://upskilluni.com/courses/early-years)
- Last updated: 2026-11-11

## Description

**Transform Your Passion for Childcare into a Professional Career!**

Are you ready to take your early years career to the next level? The Qualifi Level 4 Diploma in Early Learning and Child Care helps you develop the knowledge and skills to support young children during their early years. It’s ideal for anyone who wants to grow their career and move into senior roles in childcare or early education. 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.

This diploma focuses on essential areas such as child development, physical activity, nutrition, and supporting children with special educational needs. You will learn to create safe, engaging, and inclusive environments where children can explore, learn, and thrive. The course also highlights the importance of partnership working with parents, carers, and professionals in early years settings.

Comprising 40 credits, the Level 4 Diploma equips learners with strong safeguarding knowledge and a thorough understanding of early learning principles. It prepares you to work confidently in nurseries, preschools, and childcare centres while developing leadership and management skills. Competence-based workplace assessment ensures you gain practical experience alongside theoretical knowledge.

Upon completing this qualification, learners will understand the roles and responsibilities of early years practitioners in relation to legislation, equality, diversity, and inclusion. You will be able to plan, deliver, and assess inclusive teaching and learning, using appropriate resources effectively. Optional units provide flexibility, allowing you to gain experience across various early years contexts and progress to senior positions or Level 5 qualifications.

**Course Details**

The Qualifi Level 4 Diploma in Early Learning and Childcare has 9 units in total. Learners must complete all mandatory units to achieve 34 credits and then choose a minimum of 6 credits from the optional units. A minimum of 40 credits is required to achieve the Diploma, and a minimum of 30 hours of teaching practice.

**Qualification Accreditation Number (QAN): 610/0227/6**

**Unit Reference** **Mandatory Units** **Level** **Credit** **GLH** **TQT** J/650/0974

Child development and enabling children to learn 4 9 55 90 K/650/0975

Physical activity and nutrition co-ordination (PANCo) in early years 4 6 29 60 J/650/0992

Supporting children with additional needs

4 4 30 40 L/650/0976

Partnership working in early years settings 4 6 27 60 M/650/0977

Implementing and evaluating change through a research project 4 6 35 60 R/650/0978 Legal requirements in childcare 4 3 15 30 **Unit Reference** **Optional Units** **Level** **Credit** **GLH** **TQT** T/650/0979 Assessing and planning for children’s changing developmental needs 4 6 45 60 D/650/0980 Caring for babies 4

6 45 60 F/650/0981 Caring for children through play out of school 4 6 45 60**Accreditation**

The Qualifi Level 4 Diploma in Early Learning and Childcare is officially accredited on the Regulated Qualifications Framework (RQF). It carries a unique Qualification Accreditation Number (QAN): 610/0227/6, which appears on the learner’s final certificate.

Qualifi is an awarding organisation approved and regulated by Ofqual (Office of Qualifications and Examinations Regulation) under reference number RN5160. Ofqual ensures that qualifications meet high standards of quality and credibility across the UK, while Qualifi maintains strict quality assurance processes to support learners and training providers.

**Assessment**

This qualification develops both advanced knowledge and practical skills for early learning and child care. Each unit is assessed through work-related tasks that reflect real responsibilities in early years settings. Learners must show a clear understanding of key theories, apply these to practice, and demonstrate problem-solving skills. Assignments are structured around the required Learning Outcomes (LOs) and Assessment Criteria (ACs) and require learners to use examples from real early years environments or relevant work experience.

All assessments are completed through a portfolio of evidence, which may include written tasks, case studies, research activities, and reflective work. Units are internally assessed by LCFT Business School and externally verified by Qualifi. As a criterion-referenced qualification, learners must meet all learning outcomes and assessment criteria to achieve a Pass. This ensures learners develop the essential skills and knowledge needed to work effectively in early learning and child care.

## Curriculum

- Child development and enabling children to learn
- Physical activity and nutrition co-ordination (PANCo) in early years
- Supporting children with additional needs
- Partnership working in early years settings
- Implementing and evaluating change through a research project
- Legal requirements in childcare
- Assessing and planning for children’s changing developmental needs
- Caring for babies
- Caring for children through play out of school

## Who is this course for?

The Qualifi Level 4 Diploma in Early Learning and Childcare is perfect for anyone looking to build a career in early years education or childcare. It suits teaching assistants, nursery staff, childcare practitioners, and those entering the sector for the first time. This course develops the skills needed to support children’s learning, development, and well-being.

## Entry requirements

To enrol in the Qualifi Level 4 Diploma in Early Learning and Childcare, learners should meet the following requirements: Hold a Level 3 qualification (such as A Levels or vocational awards); or Have a Level 4 qualification in another field and wish to move into Early Years Education or Childcare; or Have relevant work experience in an organisational role and can demonstrate the ability and motivation to develop further. The learner must be aged 18 or above Good understanding of ICT. Non-native English speakers must show an appropriate level of English language proficiency.* Sufficient capability at the right level to undertake the learning and assessment criteria Learners must be employed or volunteer in a childcare setting to complete real-world observations and teaching practice. Note: Learners should ensure they meet all entry requirements before purchasing this qualification. *A learner not from a majority English-speaking country must provide evidence of English language competency. For more information, visit Language Expectations.

## Certificates

On completing the course, learners will receive an Ofqual-regulated certificate (hard copy) from Qualifi Ltd, an Ofqual-recognised awarding organisation. The certificate and transcript are included in the course fee and are sent via standard postage (local or international). For faster delivery, learners can choose a courier service (e.g., DHL) for an additional £40 (international). This is optional, as standard delivery typically takes 3–4 weeks.

## Career path

Learners completing the Qualifi Level 4 Diploma in Early Learning and Childcare can progress to: a Qualifi Level 5 qualification; Qualifi Level 5 Diploma in Early Learning and Childcare; into employment in an associated profession/move into senior childcare and early years leadership roles.

## Funding

Pay Full Fee: £629; 6 Month Instalment: £680, deposit £250, then £71.6 per instalment; 8 Month Instalment: £680, deposit £250, then £53.75 per instalment