If you want to study on a practical course that will enable you to progress to university or go straight into work, this will give you the skills needed to become a competent and effective Early Years Practitioner. It will also give you the academic training and qualifications needed to start a career in teaching, social work and other related subject areas at university.

Early Years staff are all experienced Early Years professionals who have worked in the sector and have a vast amount of experience. They will give you a thorough understanding of the subject area and provide you with innovative, exciting opportunities to put that understanding into practice in work placement.

Theme 1

All aspects of child development; pre-conception to age 7

Theme 3

Play, development and learning for school readiness

Theme 2

Legislation and professional practice including equal opportunities, health and wellbeing and safeguarding

Theme 4

Professional development and the practitioner's role

Katie Thomas

Studied: CACHE Diploma in Childcare and Education (2013-2015)

Progression: BA in Early Years Development and Learning, Norland College, Bath

Upon leaving Varndean, Katie gained a place at the prestigious Norland College in Bath and went on to gain a BA (Hons) in Early Years Development and Learning which is unique to Norland College. The three year course combined undergraduate degree level study with practical sessions and experience with children, enabling her to put theory into practice. Running alongside the degree, and for one year after leaving, you also work towards gaining the prestigious 'Norland Diploma' - otherwise known as the 'Norland Nanny' status.

At the end of of her three year's training at Norland College, Katie was proud to be awarded 'The Principal's Award' and is now currently completing her Newly Qualified Nanny (NQN) year, being just 6 months away from gaining her Norland Nanny status! She is currently working in London with a family with two young boys and hopes to stay on in this position after she qualifies. Although one day she would eventually love to take over her mother's nursery!

Katie says: "I really enjoyed my time at Varndean and loved the course as it was very practical. It was an ideal stepping stone allowing me to follow my dreams of becoming a fully qualified Norland Nanny."

Course Essentials

Courses Available

NCFE CACHE Technical Level 3 Diploma in Childcare and Education (Early Years Education)
Full-time course covering 3 options (equivalent to 3 A Levels)
UCAS points plus full and relevant occupational competency
2 years full time, including 750 hours in Placement

Entry Requirements

How The Course is Assessed

The majority of the assessment will be through coursework units. There will also be a longitudinal study, two essays under controlled assessment conditions, plus an assessment of competence in the real work environment.

Career Pathways

The course can lead to university to study for careers in teaching, social work, health professions and related subject areas. At the end of the course, students have full occupational competency as Early Years Educators and are qualified teaching assistants and are sought after by nurseries and schools, leading directly to employment.

Transferable Skills

Communication and people skills; opportunities for research and extended academic writing; organisational & administrative skills; reflective practice & significant practical experience.

Other Information

It is a requirement of the course to have a satisfactory DBS check carried out. There will be some costs to cover checks, placement T-shirts and other items.

Enquiries To

Helen Streames: hms@varndean.ac.uk