Early Years Educator Level 3 Cache

This qualification is suitable for a range of learners, either working or wishing to work in early years education and care.

The Level 3 Diploma for the Early Years Workforce (Early Years Educator) prepares learners to become Early Years Educators, enabling them to work with children from birth to 5 years and gain knowledge of children aged 5 to 7 years. Upon achievement of this qualification it is intended that learners will be able to enter the workforce as Early Years Educators. 

Entry requirements

This qualification is available for learners aged 16 and above and has no specific entry requirements, however learners might consider taking the Functional Skills in Maths, English and ICT.

From 3 April 2017, the requirement for Level 3 Early Years Educators (EYE) to hold GCSE English and maths A*-C, will be broadened to Level 2 qualifications, including Functional Skills. This will also apply to an apprenticeship route. This will enable staff with an EYE qualification and Level 2 English and mathematics qualifications to count in the Level 3 staff: child ratios in childcare settings. This includes those who already hold an EYE qualification, began studying an EYE from September 2014, or will achieve an EYE in the future. 

Learners 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. 350 hours across the age ranges are recommended.