Qualification Summary
- Qualification Title: Level 3 Diploma for Working in the Early Years Sector (Early Years Educator) (61041646)
- Awarding Body: NCFE CACHE
- Guided Learning Hours (GLH): 864
- Credit Value: 95 credits
- Minimum Age: 19 years
- Typical Duration: 1–2 years, depending on the delivery model.
This is an occupational qualification awarded by NCFE CACHE. It is designed to prepare learners to work as qualified Early Years Educators with children from birth to 5 years, while also developing knowledge of children aged 5 to 7 years.
This qualification equips learners with the knowledge, skills, and practical experience required to:
- Work as an Early Years Educator in nurseries, preschools, and other early years settings.
- Meet the Department for Education (DfE) Early Years Educator criteria.
- Be included in staff-to-child ratios in England once qualified.
Assessment
Learners are assessed through:
- A portfolio of evidence.
- Practical observations in the workplace.
- Internal assessment with external quality assurance.
- A minimum of 300 hours of work placement in an early years setting.
Career progression
Successful learners can progress to roles such as:
- Early Years Educator
- Nursery Practitioner
- Preschool Practitioner
- Childcare Worker
They may also progress to higher-level qualifications, apprenticeships, or higher education in early childhood and education.
