Duration

12 – 24 Months

Accreditation

NCFE

Overview

NCFE CACHE Level 3 Diploma for the Early Years Sector (Early Years Educator) enables learners to gain the knowledge and experience which will allow them to work with children from birth to 5 years and gain knowledge of children aged 5 to 7 years. Upon achievement of the Level 3 Diploma for the Early Years Workforce, it is intended those learners will be able to access higher education or enter the workforce as Early Years Educators.

Age ranges covered by the qualification.

Birth to 7 years

UCAS Points

This qualification has the following UCAS Points : 64

This qualification has been allocated UCAS points. Please refer to the UCAS website for further details of the points allocation and the most up-to-date information.

Delivery Methods

To cater to different learning styles and preferences, the London College of Professional Studies (LCPS) offers a range of flexible delivery methods, allowing learners to study in a way that suits their needs and schedules.

Learners will be able to:

  • ✅ Access all course materials – including online modules, study guides, and written assignments.
  • ✅ Receive expert tutor support throughout the course.
  • ✅ Use the LCPS Online Learning Portal – available 24/7, providing a user-friendly platform for all study resources.
  • ✅ Obtain detailed assignment briefings to guide assessment preparation.
  • ✅ Access high-quality study notes designed to support learning and understanding.
  • ✅ Receive assignment feedback and marks to monitor progress and improvement.
  • ✅ Earn a fully accredited UK qualification upon successful completion.
  • ✅ Get dedicated customer support via chat, telephone, or email (Monday to Friday).
  • ✅ Enjoy full academic and administrative support from enrolment to course completion.

Accreditation

This Level 3 Diploma for the Early Years Sector Early Years Educator is accredited by Ofqual regulated Awarding body.

NCFE Logo

Duration

The program is available in 2 duration modes:

  • 12 Months
  • 24 Months

Course Delivery

  • Online

Entry Requirements

You must be aged 16 or over. You will need to hold a suitable UK-recognised Level 2 qualification in English to enrol in this course, for example, Functional Skills.

Do you need to be working to take the qualification?

Before certification, learners must complete a mandatory work/industry placement experience throughout the duration of the qualification. The total number of mandatory work placement hours is a minimum of 300 hours; however, it is recommended that learners undertake 350 hours where possible.

Who is it suitable for?

This qualification is designed for learners preparing to become early years educators

Module Structure

The Level 3 Diploma for the Early Years Sector (Early Years Educator) qualification requires 95 credits to complete the course
  • Work/ Industry Placement experience
  • The minimum placement hours for this qualification is 300 hours.
  • However, it is recommended that learners undertake 350 hours where possible.
Mandatory Unit Level Credit
Introduction to the role of the early years educator 3 7
Holistic child development 3 14
Children with special educational needs and disabilities 3 7
Effective communication in an early years setting 3 7
Safeguarding and welfare requirements 3 10
Health, wellbeing and safety 3 10
Promoting an effective early years curriculum 3 15
Assessment of children’s learning and development 3 9
Understanding play for learning and holistic development 3 10
Partnership working 3 6

Which type of job roles can you apply for on completion?

The qualification is suitable for learners wishing to work as:
  • Educator in day nurseries
  • Educator in nursery schools
  • Educator in reception classes in primary schools
  • Pre-school worker

Progression

Further education:
  • NCFE CACHE Level 5 Diploma for the Early Years Senior Practitioner
  • Higher education – personal statements may be accepted by universities

Assessment

Tutor-marked assignments and workplace observations.