Early Years Educators Level 3 - Apprenticeship Standard

What opportunities will this course give me?

The Level 3 Early Years Educator (EYE) Apprenticeship is designed for those interested in working as an Early Years Educator, Nursery Teaching Assistant, Nursery Nurse, Supervisor, or Child Minder.
It is appropriate for someone who is currently employed in or seeking employment in an early childhood childcare and education setting.

Early Childhood Educators deal with and care for children ranging in age from birth to 7 years. They play a critical role in ensuring that children get the best possible start in school. According to research, disadvantaged children are four months behind at age five, ten months behind at age eleven, and 19 months behind at age sixteen. As an Early Childhood specialist, you will personally contribute to closing the gap and improving the life prospects of the children with whom you work.

You will be issued the Level 3 Early Years Educator qualification upon successful completion of your apprenticeship. The early years educator (EYE) standards are met by the early years educator (EYE) level 3 standard. Apprentices will earn an EYE qualification that can be used to meet the EYFS level 3 child-to-staff ratio requirements.


We understand how critical it is to locate apprentices who are the right fit for your early childhood environment, that they receive ongoing support, and that you are kept informed of their development at all times. By enrolling at Eastleigh College, students can be confident that they will be supported every step of the way to ensure their success in both the programme and their profession.

What will I be learning?

Learners will be required to complete 350 recommended placement hours in an Early Years setting.

Future Career progression roles include: a practitioner in day nurseries, childminders, pre-school workers, practitioner in Nursery schools, practitioner in reception classes in primary schools.


To achieve the Early Years Educator Level 3 diploma, learners must study 23 mandatory units, structured around three themes:

• Theme 1: Health and well-being

• Theme 2: Legislation, frameworks and professional practice

• Theme 3: Play, development and learning for school readiness
• Safeguarding

Learners completing Early Childhood Educators learn how to:

Early childhood education and development should be supported and promoted.
Plan and deliver high-quality care, education, and learning that allows children to advance and prepares them for school.
Use assessment in a way that is both accurate and productive.
Create an efficient and well-informed practice.
Protect and promote children's health, safety, and well-being.
Learn to work in collaboration with key workers as well as other professionals in the field.

Why is this course for me?

A variety of teaching methods will be used including whole class, group work, team work, pair work, discussions, exercises, and handouts.

All units will be internally assessed using a range of methods, which could include written assignments or tasks such as designing a leaflet or booklet, posters, charts or diagrams, or setting up an information board.

Level 3 would suit you if you are currently working in a role where you are following the EYFS, carry out regular child observations and deliver planned activities for children under 5 years. This course is ideal if you want to learn how to promote childrens physical, emotional and social development.

How will my learning be enhanced?

As part of your qualification you will need to complete 20% off the job training which is supported by your employer, this is a mandatory part of your course in order to gain your qualification.

What do I need to sign up?

There are no prerequisites for this qualification however, you will need to be in employment in the care industry.

Is there anything else I need to know?

If you are a Levy paying employer, the cost of training will be funded through your digital account. If you are a non-levy paying employer you will pay 5% of the cost of training. For full details on fees, or for any other inquiries please contact experts@eastleigh.ac.uk or call 023 8091 1195.

For a full overview of the course and details of the funding available to cover the costs please contact our Business Development Team - Jessica Giles on 023 8091 1274 or Julie Bannister on 023 8091 1757.
Alternatively please email experts@eastleigh.ac.uk

If you are interested in applying for the standalone or Adult Education Budget (AEB) route please search for the following course on our college website: Level 3 Diploma for the Early Years Workforce (Early Years Educator).

Course Code

AAP013/EYESTND

Need some further advice?

For full details on fees, or for any other enquiries please contact experts@eastleigh.ac.uk or call 023 8091 1195.