Level 3 Diploma in Early Years Education and Care (Early Years Educator)

Level 3 Diploma in Early Years Education and Care (Early Years Educator)

Wednesday, 16 September 2026 20:24:57

International applicants and their qualifications are accepted

Start Now     Viewbook
Quick answer

This Level 3 Diploma in Early Years Education and Care is designed for individuals who wish to become qualified early years educators. Delivered 100% online by LSIB over six months, this course equips you with the skills and knowledge needed to care for and educate young children effectively. Enrol now to start your career in early childhood education.

Start Now → Admission open · Enrol in minutes

Overview

OfQual.gov.uk number: 610/0013/6 Click to verify
Overview

The Level 3 Diploma in Early Years Education and Care (Early Years Educator) is a comprehensive qualification designed to prepare learners for careers working with children from birth to five years old. This course equips students with the knowledge and skills necessary to understand child development, design engaging learning activities, and implement effective health and safety practices. The curriculum also covers safeguarding, ensuring that learners are well-prepared to create safe and nurturing environments for young children.

"}<>

Content updated: 11 September 2026

Upon completing this course, you will be able to:

• Understand and apply principles of child development from birth to five years.

• Create and implement health and safety policies for early years settings.

• Assess children’s progress using a range of methods.

• Promote literacy and numeracy skills through play-based learning strategies.

Entry requirements

Educational Background:

  • Previous Qualification: Applicants should have successfully completed a Level 2 qualification (e.g., GCSEs, Level 2 Certificate, Diploma) or hold an equivalent credential. Higher qualifications are also accepted.

    OR
  • Relevant Experience: Candidates with over 1 year of professional experience in their respective industry are encouraged to apply, as their practical knowledge is highly valued.

Age Requirement:

  • Minimum Age: Applicants must be 16 years or older. This program is designed to support both recent school leavers and those with some professional experience in advancing their careers.

International applicants and their qualifications are accepted.

Step into a transformative journey at LSIB, where you'll become part of a vibrant community of students from over 157 nationalities.

At LSIB, we are a global family. When you join us, your qualifications are recognized and accepted, making you a valued member of our diverse, internationally connected community.

Course Content

  • YL/3/1 - Planning and Implementing Activities for Children in the Early Years
  • YL/3/2 - Understanding the Needs of Children in the Early Years
  • YL/3/3 - Communication and Interaction with Children in the Early Years
  • YL/3/4 - Health, Safety and Welfare of Children in the Early Years
  • YL/3/5 - Observing and Recording the Development of Children in the Early Years
  • YL/3/6 - Supporting the Development of Children's Language and Literacy in the Early Years
  • YL/3/7 - Supporting the Development of Children's Mathematics in the Early Years
  • YL/3/8 - Supporting the Development of Children's Physical and Sensory Development in the Early Years
  • YL/3/9 - Supporting the Development of Children's Social and Emotional Development in the Early Years
  • YL/3/10 - Working with Parents and Carers in the Early Years

Assessment

The evaluation process is conducted through the submission of assignments, and there are no written examinations involved.

Fee and Payment Plans

30 to 40% Cheaper than most Universities and Colleges

Duration & course fee

The programme is available in two duration modes:

6 Months : GBP £1250
9 Months: GBP £950 This programme does not have any additional costs.
The fee is payable in monthly, quarterly, half yearly instalments.
You can avail 5% discount if you pay the full fee upfront in 1 instalment

Payment plans

6 Months - GBP £1250

● Payment option (a): GBP £416 x 3 monthly instalments
● Payment option (b): GBP £1187.50 x 1 instalment (We offer 5% bursary on total fee for students opting to pay in full)

9 Months - GBP £950

● Payment option (c): GBP £190 x 5 monthly instalments
● Payment option (d): GBP £475 x 2 quarterly instalments
● Payment option (e): GBP £902.50 x 1 instalment (We offer 5% bursary on total fee for students opting to pay in full)

Our course fee is up to 40% cheaper than most universities and colleges.

Start Now

Accreditation

Qualifi, UK - an Awarding body by the UK Government’s regulator - OfQual.

Start Now

  • Start this course anytime from anywhere.
  • 1. Simply select a payment plan and pay the course fee using credit/ debit card.
  • 2. Course starts
  • Start Now

Got questions? Get in touch

Chat with us: Click the live chat button

+44 75 2064 7455

admissions@lsib.co.uk

+44 (0) 20 3608 0144



Career path

Upon completion of the Level 3 Diploma in Early Years Education and Care (Early Years Educator), learners can progress into various roles within early years settings. These include Early Years Practitioners, Nursery Assistants, and Childcare Workers. With further experience and qualifications, graduates may advance to more senior positions such as Team Leaders or Centre Managers.

Role Share Breakdown
Industry share (%)

Key facts about Level 3 Diploma in Early Years Education and Care (Early Years Educator)

  • Award: Diploma
  • Level: Level 3 (Undergraduate)
  • Duration: 6 Months / 9 Months
  • Fee: GBP £1250 / GBP £950
  • Online/Flexible Study: Yes
  • Awarding Body: Qualifi, UK - an Awarding body by the UK Government’s regulator - OfQual.
  • Credits: 60
  • Study Benefits: Gain a nationally recognised qualification that opens doors to rewarding careers in early years education and care.

Why this course?

The Level 3 Diploma in Early Years Education and Care (Early Years Educator) holds significant importance in today’s educational landscape, particularly within the UK. The demand for qualified professionals in this field continues to grow, driven by an increasing focus on early years education as a critical factor in child development and future academic success.

According to the Department for Education, there is a projected 15% increase in employment opportunities for Early Years Educators over the next five years. This growth is fuelled by government initiatives aimed at improving access to high-quality childcare and preschool programmes. By earning this diploma, learners will be well-positioned to meet the rising demand and secure fulfilling roles within the sector.

Estimated Demand Growth
Illustrative UK estimates for this subject — not official enrolment
YearEstimated UK learners
2026120,000
2027140,000

Who should enrol in Level 3 Diploma in Early Years Education and Care (Early Years Educator)?

The Level 3 Diploma in Early Years Education and Care (Early Years Educator) is ideal for individuals looking to enter the early years education sector. The course is suitable for those with a passion for working with young children and who wish to develop the skills necessary to support their growth and development.
  • Individuals interested in working with children aged birth to five years old
  • Those seeking a career change into childcare or early years education
  • Current workers aiming to enhance their qualifications and career prospects
  • People looking for flexible study options that fit around work or other commitments