Level 3 Diploma for the
Early Years Educator
Your Path to a Professional
Career in Early
Years Education
Become a qualified early years professional — supporting children’s learning, development, and wellbeing through play, care, and education.
The Level 3 Early Years Educator qualification is designed for professionals working with children from birth to 5 years, ensuring they learn, develop, and thrive in safe, nurturing environments.
You’ll gain a deep understanding of the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) and learn how to plan, deliver, and assess purposeful play experiences that promote every child’s development and wellbeing.
This qualification is ideal for:
Early years professionals progressing from Level 2
Nursery educators, nursery nurses, or room leaders
Practitioners working in nurseries, pre-schools, or reception classes
Anyone looking to gain a full and relevant Level 3 early years qualification
Level:
3 Apprenticeship Standard
Typical Duration:
18 months (plus 3-month EPA)
Assessment:
Observation, professional discussion & portfolio
Study Mode:
Work-based learning
Supervision:
May lead or support others in early years settings
Minimum Age:
16+
Who Is It For?
This qualification is perfect for:
Learners aged 16+ starting their career in childcare and education
Nursery assistants, early years workers, or childminders in training
Individuals supporting children in nurseries, pre-schools, or reception classes
Course Content
You’ll complete all mandatory units covering the key aspects of childcare, development, and education.
Core Learning Areas:
Child Development and Theories of Learning
Observation, Assessment, and Planning for Children’s Progress
Safeguarding, Health, and Safety in Early Years
Promoting Children’s Wellbeing, Behaviour, and Inclusion
Partnership Working with Families and Professionals
Supporting Children with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND)
Paediatric First Aid or Emergency First Aid
How You’ll Be Assessed
Assessment ensures you can confidently apply your knowledge in a professional early years setting.
Observation with questions (by an independent assessor)
Professional discussion underpinned by a portfolio of evidence
Knowledge-based assignments
End-point assessment (EPA) following gateway approval
Final grades available: Pass, Merit, or Distinction.
Progression & Careers
After qualifying, you can work as:
After qualifying, you can work as:
Early Years Educator
Nursery Nurse or Nursery Room Leader
Pre-School Supervisor or Key Person
Home-Based Childminder or Nanny
Progression routes include:
Level 4 Certificate in Early Years Advanced Practice
Level 5 Diploma in Leadership for Children and Young People’s Services
Foundation Degree in Early Childhood Studies
Entry Requirements
Learners must be aged 16+
Level 2 in English and Maths (or achieved before completion)
Completion of a Level 2 Early Years qualification recommended
Enhanced DBS check required
Why Choose Accacia Training?
Delivered by experienced early years and education specialists
Learn while working in real early years settings
One-to-one support and professional development guidance
Clear progression from Level 2 to leadership and higher education
Nationally recognised qualification aligned with EYFS standards
Support Hub
Do I need previous experience?
Yes — ideally, you should already hold a Level 2 Early Years qualification or have experience working with children.
Will I work with children directly?
Yes, this is a hands-on qualification where you’ll apply what you learn in real childcare environments.
Is this recognised by employers?
Absolutely — this qualification is fully recognised under EYFS and counts toward Level 3 staffing ratios.
Do I need First Aid certification?
Yes — you must hold a Paediatric or Emergency Paediatric First Aid certificate before completing the qualification.
Can I progress to higher study?
Yes — you can move on to Level 4 or Level 5 qualifications or even higher education.
