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Earn a valuable qualification and open the door to a rewarding career working with children and young people

Early years and education programmes: course types and outcomes


From Level 1 through to Level 6, our early years and education courses enable learners to begin their journey or progress their learning and development. Whether you are looking for a beginner childcare course or a PGCE teacher training qualification to become a qualified teacher, we have a programme to support your goals. Our courses off er great progression opportunities into Further Education, Higher Education, and the workplace within the education and early years and education sector.


Our courses open the door to careers and opportunities such as:

  • Early Years Practitioner – Working in a nursery or early years setting
  • Early Years Educator – Planning activities, safeguarding children and supporting development
  • Nursery Practitioner – Supporting babies and young children in a nursery centre
  • Teaching Assistant – Supporting teaching and learning in schools
  • SEN Support Assistant – Supporting children and young people with special educational needs
  • Progression to Higher Level Roles (Level 5 and beyond) – Including early years centre supervisor or progression into senior teaching roles.


Facilities and support on campus


Our teaching facilities include an early years resource room as well as a baby room for developing your practical experience and hands-on skills. We have a dedicated team of tutors and careers advisors, all of whom have a great deal of hands-on experience in their chosen vocation, which has enabled our students to flourish in a range of roles.

Find your course
A Level & Mix
Early Childhood Development Mix
Vocational & T Level
Education & Early Years T Level
Early Years Practitioner Diploma Level 2
Caring for Children Diploma Level 1
University Centre
BA (Hons) Leading Children’s Development & Learning (Top-up)
Foundation Degree (FD) Children’s Development & Learning
Teacher Training: PGCE/CertEd
Apprenticeship
Teaching Assistant Apprenticeship Level 3
Early Years Educator Apprenticeship Level 3
Early Years Practitioner Apprenticeship Level 2
Courses for Adults
Understanding Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs)
NCFE Level 3 Diploma in Specialist Support for Teaching & Learning
NCFE Level 3 Award in Education and Training
BA (Hons) Leading Children’s Development & Learning (Top-up)
Foundation Degree (FD) Children’s Development & Learning
Access to HE Diploma (Education Professions)
A Level & Mix
Vocational & T Level
University Centre
Apprenticeship
Courses for Adults
Early Childhood Development Mix
Education & Early Years T Level
Early Years Practitioner Diploma Level 2
Caring for Children Diploma Level 1
BA (Hons) Leading Children’s Development & Learning (Top-up)
Foundation Degree (FD) Children’s Development & Learning
Teacher Training: PGCE/CertEd
Teaching Assistant Apprenticeship Level 3
Early Years Educator Apprenticeship Level 3
Early Years Practitioner Apprenticeship Level 2
Understanding Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs)
NCFE Level 3 Diploma in Specialist Support for Teaching & Learning
NCFE Level 3 Award in Education and Training
BA (Hons) Leading Children’s Development & Learning (Top-up)
Foundation Degree (FD) Children’s Development & Learning
Access to HE Diploma (Education Professions)
What our students say
Jemima Macdonald

It’s amazing to graduate from York College with a degree because I’ve been here for 7 years. When I realised I could continue my Higher Education here, I thought, ‘Of course, I’m going to stay’.

I love SEND kids and adults – they’re the best and I’ve always known they’re exactly who I wanted to work with. I thought a Health & Social Care course at College would be a good starting point for me.

It was the best decision I ever made. I absolutely loved it and went on to do my Level 3 in Childcare and Education before doing the Foundation Degree and then the degree course. 

Jemima, BA (Hons) Leading Children's Development & Learning

FAQS

What jobs can I get from an early years or education course?

An early years and education course can lead to a range of roles, including, but not limited to: 

  • Early years practitioner
  • Early years educator
  • Nursery assistant
  • Teacher
  • Special needs school support worker
  • Teaching assistant 

What is an early years course?

An early years course is a programme designed to prepare you to work with young children in childcare and education settings. 

What skills will I develop on an early years course?

You will develop skills in child development, safeguarding, communication and supporting teaching and learning. 

What modules are covered in an early years course?

Modules often cover child development, children’s learning, safeguarding and practical work placement in an early years setting. 

Which course should I take to become a teacher?

To become a teacher, you may choose a recognised qualification, such as a Teacher Training PGCE. Other options include a Teaching Assistant Apprenticeship or our NCFE Level 3 Diploma in Specialist Support for Teaching and Learning. If you would like further advice, please contact us to discuss which route is right for you.