- 0208 381 1813
- [email protected]
- Mon - Sat: 8:00AM - 5:30PM
Gain the skills and knowledge to become a qualified Early Years Educator, supporting the development, learning, and wellbeing of children aged 0–5.
Overview
This nationally recognised Level 3 diploma equips learners with the knowledge and practical skills needed to work confidently with children from birth to age five, with an understanding of development up to age seven. Covering child development, safeguarding, play, communication, and curriculum planning, the course prepares you to become a qualified Early Years Educator ready to support children’s learning and wellbeing in a range of early years settings.
This course is ideal for:
Individuals currently working or volunteering in a nursery, preschool, or childcare setting
School leavers or career changers who want to enter the early years workforce
Anyone looking to gain a full and recognised qualification to work in childcare
Learners aiming to progress to Level 4/5 childcare qualifications or early years teaching pathways
No prior qualifications are needed, but access to a real work placement is required to complete practical elements.
Holistic Child Development
Children with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND)
Effective Communication in an Early Years Setting
Safeguarding and Welfare Requirements
Health, Wellbeing and Safety
Promoting an Effective Early Years Curriculum
Assessment of Children’s Learning and Development
Understanding Play for Holistic Development and Learning
Partnership Working
Internally assessed via a portfolio of evidence, supported by workplace observations and written tasks.
Minimum 300 hours required; 350 hours strongly recommended, with practical assessment in real early years settings.
Age: 16 or over.
Academic qualifications: No formal qualifications required; centres may ask for GCSEs or Level 2 Functional Skills in English/maths; IT literacy and a workplace placement are expected.
Context: Must work or volunteer with children (typically 8–15 hours/week) and have access to a PC/laptop for coursework.
NCFE CACHE, Ofqual-regulated
NCFE CACHE is a nationally recognised awarding organisation specialising in vocational qualifications for the care and education sectors. Regulated by Ofqual, CACHE qualifications are trusted by employers and widely accepted across the UK.
£4,670
Advanced Learner Loan covers full course cost, with no upfront payment; repayment begins only when earning above £27,295 per year.
The Advanced Learner Loan is a government-backed loan in the UK designed to help individuals aged 19 and over fund their education at Level 3 or above, including courses such as diplomas, A-levels, and higher apprenticeships.
Immediate roles: Early Years Educator, nursery or preschool practitioner, reception class assistant.
Next steps: Level 4/5 courses (e.g. Senior Practitioner, Leadership in Early Years); possible university progressions including Foundation Degrees.
Getting started with London Cactus College is quick, simple, and fully supported. Here’s how it works:
01
Explore our range of fully accredited courses and pick the one that matches your goals.
02
Complete a quick form, we’ll check your eligibility and guide you through funding options like the Advanced Learner Loan
03
Once approved, get instant access to your course materials and start learning at your own pace with expert tutor support.
04
Complete the course, pass your assessments, and earn a nationally recognised qualification.
All our courses are fully accredited by NCFE CACHE, VTCT, and more.
Get guidance, feedback, and ongoing support tailored to you throughout your course.
Study anytime, anywhere. Choose online, blended, or self-paced options that suit your lifestyle.
We offer full support with Advanced Learner Loan applications
Study with professionals who bring hands-on experience into every lesson.
From enrolment to employment, we’re with you every step.
Need Help?
Here are some of the most frequently asked questions from our learners. Learn more about course details, enrolment, funding, and support, or get in touch if you need further assistance.
Most courses require you to be aged 19 or over and a UK resident for the past 3 years. Many have open entry, so no formal qualifications are needed.
Courses are delivered flexibly: online, blended, or self-paced, so you can learn when and where it suits you.
Yes, many learners use the Advanced Learner Loan, a government-backed option that covers course fees with no upfront cost.
Duration varies by course but generally ranges from 6 months to 1 year. Self-paced learning lets you progress at your own speed.
You will earn a nationally recognised qualification accredited by respected awarding bodies like NCFE CACHE, VTCT, etc.
You’ll get dedicated tutor support, learning resources, and help with funding applications throughout your course.
Yes, we support both individual and bulk staff enrolments, and offer bulk enrolment options to easily upskill your team with flexible learning and dedicated support.
We assist with funding applications, provide individual tutor support for each learner, and offer progress tracking to ensure successful outcomes.
Partners & Accreditations
