Need Help Applying for a course?
Student Handbook
Funding Support for Students
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. Part time option is delivered over 1.5yrs and 45 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 are required to have a minimum of 12 points. This should include GCSE English and Maths at Grade C or above/equivalent. Learners must complete an Access NI check and be successful at interview. Entry criteria may be enhanced depending on demand.
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. 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.
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.
P3104OF10A
Session Code
1 Year(s)
Duration
Further Education
Mode of Study
16
Hours per Week
34
Number of Weeks
Interview Required
24/25
Academic Year
02/09/2024
Start Date
Subject to Timetable
Day/s
Roisin.Bradley@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?
BA (Hons) Early Childhood Studies from Stranmillis University College; validated by Queen’s University Belfast
Foundation Degree in Early Childhood Studies, validated by Queen’s University Belfast, quality assured by Stranmillis University College
NCFE CACHE Level 3 Extended Diploma for Children’s Care Learning and Development (Northern Ireland)