Any application for a full-time course submitted after 16 June will be treated as a late application.
What can this course lead to?
Upon successful completion of the Early Years Educator T Level – Early Years Educator Pathway program, graduates will be well-prepared for various career opportunities in the field of early childhood education or teaching assistance, including:
- Teaching Assistant: Assist educators and teachers in early years and primary school classrooms.
- Childcare Assistant: Work in childcare centers, preschools, and after-school programs.
- Special Education Assistant: Support children with diverse needs in inclusive education settings.
- Early Intervention Specialist: Assist in early intervention programs for children with developmental challenges.
- Family Support Worker: Work with families to support the development and well-being of young children.
- Further Education: Pursue higher education or specialized training in early childhood education or related fields.
Who is it for?
The T Level in Education and Childcare will allow you to develop your knowledge and understanding in a broad range of topics such as child development, safeguarding and special educational needs, as well as learning about the role of families and support agencies. It’s a diverse and fascinating subject, and you’ll be able to delve into the specifics of social interaction, how language is acquired and understanding behaviour.
You’ll also build your skills in becoming a reflective practitioner with an understanding of the broader context of education. You’ll then be able to choose a specialism, which is designed to support your interests and ambitions to progress in a specific area. This is where you can get deeper into your chosen subject, developing and practising the skills needed for an occupation.
This course offers you an attractive alternative to A Levels and apprenticeships. An industry-based work placement is required to run alongside your course, this must be a minimum of 750 hours and will further reinforce your newly learned skills and offer a true insight into the childcare industry.
This course would enable you to go to university and study topics such as; Early Childhood, Education Studies, Primary/Secondary Teaching, Education and SEN. This course does not give you a license to practice so additional qualifications may be required to work in some sectors.
What is covered?
Course Objectives: Early Childhood Education: Gain in-depth knowledge of early childhood development, pedagogy, and educational theories. Supportive Assistance: Develop practical skills in assisting Educators in creating nurturing and effective learning environments. Child-Cantered Care: Learn how to provide holistic care and support to young learners, fostering their development. Inclusive Education: Understand the principles of inclusive education and how to support children with diverse needs. Communication and Collaboration: Enhance communication and collaboration skills to work effectively with educators, parents, and children. Ethical and Professional Standards: Embrace ethical and professional standards in education and child care. Course Content : Foundations of Early Childhood Education: Cover the basics of child development, educational theories, and the role of Early Years Educators. Supportive Early Years Practices: Learn practical skills in assisting educators, classroom management, and curriculum support. Child Development and Well-being: Explore child development milestones, emotional well-being, and child protection. Inclusive Education and Diverse Needs: Understand inclusive education principles and how to support children with diverse needs. Communication and Collaboration: Enhance communication, teamwork, and collaboration skills for effective interaction in educational settings. Ethical and Professional Responsibilities: Embrace ethical standards and professional responsibilities in early childhood education. Work-Based Learning: Apply theoretical knowledge in real educational settings through industry placements and practical experiences.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
5 GCSEs at grades 4/C or above,including English Language and maths. Or, a relevant Level 2 Diploma at Merit/grade B, including English Language and maths at grades 4/C. You will also need a DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service) Certificate with no grounds that you are professionally unsuitable to undertake professional practice or placement. The College manages applications for a DBS, and we will contact you with the forms and guidance you require to complete this before you are due to start your course.
Assessment methods will include written examinations, practical assessments, classroom observations, communication evaluations, and continuous assessment of work-based learning experiences. In the first year you will be expected to complete two paper-based exams. In the second year, you will complete an employer-based coursework assessment: Core components will be assessed through a project set by employers from within the industry and two externally-set tests. Occupational specialisms will be assessed through a defined project that is created in conjunction with relevant employers and supported by specialist tutors on programme.
As part of the course, you’ll get the chance to take part in various trips. You will be required to wear a T Level Early Years uniform. Costs will be advised to you at the interview stage, for payment during the enrolment process
As part of the course, you’ll get the chance to take part in various trips. Costs will be advised to you at the interview stage, for payment during the enrolment process
Due to the high-level academic nature of the T-Level and the considerable industry placement element totalling a minimum of 750 hours.
Your T-Level will include an industry placement with an employer to develop the practical and technical skills required for the occupation. We will support you in finding relevant work placements but you must demonstrate willingness to travel to your work placements. These will last a minimum of 750 hours. Employers can offer industry placements as a block, day release or a combination of the two. You will also require a current Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) enhanced disclosure certificate which the College will support you to apply for.
Start date: 01/09/2025
PTL3EC5AF$
2 years
£0.00
Full-time courses are fully funded for 16 to 18-year-olds. For age 19+, various funding options are available.

Studying the course allowed me to secure an apprenticeship with a fostering agency, paving my path to my dream career in care. Those three years at Peterborough were the highlight of my life; I cherished every moment.
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