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The qualification allows learners to gain in-depth knowledge and understanding about child development (0-12 years) and to develop and refine the practical and technical skills required for employment and / or career progression in the Early Year and Childcare sector, working with children from 0-5 years and 11 months.
This qualification is available as Full Time, Part Time or via an Apprenticeship.
Part time option is delivered over 1.5yrs and 45 weeks. Apprenticeship is delivered over 1 year (30 weeks).
To achieve the Level 3 Diploma for Children's Care, Learning and Development learners must achieve 56 credits from the 8 mandatory units plus a minimum of 14 credits from a range of optional units. This qualification is graded as pass/fail.
Learners must complete a total of 8 mandatory modules which are : Context and principles for the Early Years sector, Communication and partnership working, Safeguarding children, Keeping children safe, health and well, Supporting children’s personal care and nutrition, Supporting children’s development, Supporting children’s play opportunities and experience of play, Contribute to the support of children with disabilities and / or special needs.
Optional modules include : Engaging babies and young children in storytelling, Research in Early Years practice, Understand how to set up a home-based childcare service, Contemporary theories and thinking in Early Years and Support young children with autistic spectrum conditions.
Learners should have a minimum of 12 points. This should include GCSE English Grade C or above/equivalent. Learners must complete an Access NI check and be successful at interview. Preference will be given to GCSE qualifications in English and Maths at grade C or above. Applicants to the Level 3 CCLD FT/PT/Apprenticeship must be aged 16 + and working in a suitable Early Years setting. For applicants who do not have a GCSE Grade C (or equivalent) in Numeracy, Literacy and ICT, completion of these will be a mandatory element of the Apprenticeship. Numeracy is also an essential component of the full time pathway if this has not yet been achieved.
This is a work based qualification and learners will be observed working with children in the early years, their families and colleagues and complete written assignments. Full Time and Part Time Learners are required to secure placements in Early Years settings which will enable them to work with children in the 0-5 years and 11 months age group. You will be required to complete a minimum of 600 hours in a placement setting.
For those undertaking the apprenticeship programme similar assessment methods will be applied, however it is necessary for you to be employed in a suitable Early Years setting.
Learners can further their studies through progression to a relevant higher education course such as a Foundation Degree in Early Childhood Studies. Learners may also wish to seek career opportunities and employment in the Early Years sector as a Childminder, Classroom Assistant, Pre-School Leader or Sure Start Room Leader.
A clear Access NI Enhanced Disclosure is required and costs £35.
P3104DF10B
Session Code
1 Year(s)
Duration
Apprenticeships
Mode of Study
6
Hours per Week
34
Number of Weeks
Interview Required
25/26
Academic Year
01/09/2025
Start Date
Subject to Timetable
Day/s
Carmel.McGeary@swc.ac.uk
Coordinator(s)
Total Annual Fee N/A
Total Concessionary Fee N/A
Fees Payable Each Year
**Am I eligible for concessionary fees?
P3104OF10A
Further Education
16
Shirley-Anne.McAdam@swc.ac.uk
P3104OF10B
2 Year(s)
P3104OE10A
30
15/09/2025
15:30-21:30
Time
Wednesday
Total Annual Fee £1,035.00
P3104DE10A
16/09/2025
Tuesday
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