Level 3 Extended Certificate in Early Childhood Development

Pearsons BTEC Level3 National Extended Certificate in Early Childhood development (AAQ)

The Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Extended Certificate in Early Childhood Development (AAQ) allows students to engage in a broad investigation of the children’s care and education sector (0-8 years). As Maria Montessori stated, “The goal of early childhood education should be to activate the child’s own natural desire to learn”. Through your studies you will become equipped to ensure children get to tap into that natural desire. This qualification is the equivalent, in size and rigour, to that of an A level developing your practical skills and techniques in teamwork and partnership building, professional and personal development, communication, and evaluation alongside building research, analysis and reflective skills. The qualification allows you to progress to study in higher education; enabling careers in sectors supporting teaching, nursing, youth and community work plus social work as recognised by UCAS. The qualification equally enables you to join the workplace as an advanced apprentice to become an Early Years Educator, leading to employment within the early years sector with a licence to practice.

Entry Requirements

• Grade 5 in GCSE English and Grade 4 in GCSE Maths 

Course Duration

2 years

Specification

Pearsons BTEC

How you will study

The course is studied over two years, creating a portfolio of evidence based around two units. Each unit will be introduced and facilitated by the teacher during lessons. There are also two external assessments, taken under controlled supervision based on the knowledge gained from the taught sessions and the portfolio of evidence. Assessments and the use of exemplars are used to familiarise students with the demands and requirements of the controlled assessments and their grading.

Component breakdown

Unit 1 – Children’s development- External examination
Study of children’s developmental progress from birth up to eight years. Students will examine theories, principles and factors relating to development.

Unit 2 – Keeping Children safe- External examination

The responsibilities of a professional to maintain health and safety as well as ensuring effective safeguarding measures are in place. They will understand what to do in an emergency and when to address concerns about a child’s welfare.

Unit 3 – Play and learning-Internal portfolio

Students explore the concept of play, the influence of theories and approaches to play, and the benefits of play and learning activities for children.

Unit 4– Research and reflective practice in an Early Childhood Setting- Internal portfolio

Students understand how research findings influence policy and provision for children and will be able to reflect on how this influences their own behaviour and expectations in the work placement environment.

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