Course Overview

Course information

This Level 3 Extended Certificate in Early Childhood Development is equivalent to one A Level and is designed for post-16 learners interested in working with children aged 0 to 8 years. It includes four mandatory units: two internally assessed and two externally assessed, covering child development, safeguarding, play and learning, and reflective practice. The course encourages practical learning and supports progression to higher education. Students explore theoretical concepts and gain valuable insight into the early years care and education sector, often supported by optional work placements.

This AAQ course is for students who don’t yet meet the entry requirements for a T Level but would like to progress onto one. It allows you to study at Level 3 while retaking English and/or maths. Once you’ve achieved the grades you need, you can move on to a T Level and continue your journey towards a rewarding career in education.

It includes four mandatory units: two internally assessed and two externally assessed, covering child development, safeguarding, play and learning, and reflective practice. The course encourages practical learning and supports progression to higher education. Students explore theoretical concepts and gain valuable insight into the early years care and education sector, often supported by optional work placements.

Key topics

Children’s Development (theories, milestones, and influencing factors)
Keeping Children Safe (safeguarding, health & safety, legislation)
Play and Learning (importance of play, stages of learning, activity planning)
Reflective Practice (conducting research, applying findings, self-evaluation)
Transferable Skills (research, teamwork, communication, critical thinking)
Work Placement Experience (recommended for hands-on learning)
Health and Nutrition (child welfare and safety promotion)
Inclusive Practice (diversity, equality, SEND awareness)

How you are assessed
External Exams (50%):
- Unit 1: Children’s Development (written exam)
- Unit 2: Keeping Children Safe (written exam)
Internal Assignments (50%):
- Unit 3: Play and Learning (Pearson Set Assignment Brief)
- Unit 4: Research and Reflective Practice (project-based, work-related)
Assessments include case studies, scenario-based tasks, essays, and practical reflections.
Why study at NCC?
- We are Ofsted-rated Outstanding, so you can expect exceptional teaching and support you can trust
- Expert tutors bring real-world industry experience into every lesson
- Flexible learning options let you tailor study to your life and ambitions
- Broad career pathways: from entry level through to professional qualifications
- One-to-one support with academic advice, wellbeing services and financial guidance
- Modern, industry-standard facilities: labs, workshops, digital tools and performance spaces Courses co-designed with employers to match local and national job markets
- Strong employer partnerships offer placements, live projects and networking opportunities
- A supportive, inclusive community where you can flourish and succeed
At New City College, you’ll train for a career in Health and Social Care, one of the UK’s fastest-growing and most vital sectors. Learning from experienced tutors with real industry backgrounds, you’ll study in professional-standard facilities including simulation wards and specialist classrooms that mirror real healthcare settings.

With strong partnerships across the NHS, private nurseries and care homes, you’ll gain hands-on placements that prepare you for careers in nursing, midwifery, social work, teaching and more. And it’s not just about the qualification, you’ll boost your skills with First Aid certification, dementia awareness training, workshops, guest speakers, educational visits and even international trips.

Select your campus option to apply

Dates

Start: 01/09/2026

End: 02/07/2027

Choose this course

Dates

Start: 01/09/2026

End: 02/07/2027

Choose this course

Dates

Start: 01/09/2026

End: 02/07/2027

Choose this course

Dates

Start: 01/09/2026

End: 02/07/2027

Choose this course

What Can This Course Lead To

When studied with English or Mathematics GCSE, this qualification can lead to:

T levels Education and Early Years

It also prepares learners for roles such as teaching assistant, nursery practitioner, or for advanced apprenticeships in early years education or healthcare settings. This BTEC blends academic study with practical experience, making it ideal for those interested in working with children. Benefits include: