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Early Years and Childcare students at Bishop Burton College

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Subject

Education and Early Years

Level

Level 3

Study Mode

Full-Time

Duration

2 years

Start Date

September 2026

The course

Practical vs Theory

45%

55 %

Are you looking to launch a career within education or childcare? This course will give you the knowledge and skills you need. You'll enjoy the ultimate blend of theoretical study in the classroom, being hands-on in our state-of-the-art nursery with a fully equipped nursery room and a sensory room, while also working a minimum of one day per week in the industry. T Levels have been developed in collaboration with employers to meet industry needs. They are a Level 3 qualification equivalent to 3 A Levels and offer you a balance of classroom theory, practical learning and a hands-on industry placement. You will spend 55% of your time in the classroom and the other 45% in the workplace. T Levels also carry UCAS points to take you on to university.
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T Levels

T Levels have been developed in collaboration with employers to meet industry needs. They are a Level 3 qualification equivalent to 3 A Levels and offer you a balance of classroom theory, practical learning and a hands-on industry placement. You will spend 80% of your time in the classroom or working on our campus, plus 20% in the workplace. T Levels also carry UCAS points to take you on to university.

Find out more

Course Information

  • To provide you with the knowledge, skills and behaviours needed to progress into skilled employment or higher level technical training or study.
  • Supporting education
  • Safeguarding
  • Health and safety and wellbeing
  • Behaviour
  • Parents, families and carers
  • Child development
  • Observation and assessment
  • Reflective practice
  • Equality and diversity
  • Special educational needs and disability
  • English as an additional language
  • Early years educator OR Assisting teaching specialism

4 GCSEs at grade 4 or above, including English and Maths. A satisfactory reference and clear Disclosing and Barring Service (DBS) check are also required

You will learn through a mixture of practical and theory sessions with guest speakers, visits and links to placement.

You will normally be in college three days per week and one to two days in work placement.

You will need to undertake 750 hours of industry placement during the two-year course if you select the Early Years Educator specialism, and if you select the Assisting Teaching specialism, you will undertake 315 hours.
You will be assessed through exams, practical assessments and controlled assignments.
  • Folder with dividers to organise your work and assignments.
  • A clear, enhanced DBS will also be required (applied for through the college)
  • A uniform for placement to include plain black trousers, shoes and a college branded polo shirt
  • Stationery including notepad for use in class, pens and pencils
  • A laptop or tablet will also be useful
Upon completion of this qualification, you could progress to the a range of jobs within the education and childcare sectors, such as: Nursery worker Teaching assistant Learning mentor Childminding Childrens play centres Secondary schools Special educational needs teaching assistant Child Psychology Child Protection Officer
Apply now