BTEC Level 3 Early childhood Development (One A Level course)

Please note that applications to the sixth form close on Wednesday 14th January 2026. If you wish to make an application after this date please contact the sixth form office at office@derehamsixthform.norfolk.sch.uk or call 01362 696884.

For more information about a place at Dereham Sixth Form College for September 2026, please visit the website - www.dsfc.org.uk

Course Instructions

Most students will choose the equivalent of 3 A Levels but in some circumstances a maximum of 4. These are subjects that will continue for the full two years. Select only one subject from each option block (choosing more than 1 course from the same block will delay your application as courses from each block are timetabled at the same time). All courses are equivalent to 1 A Level except where specified differently below.

Dereham Education & Soccer Academy Including BTEC Diploma in Sport (equivalent to three A Level subjects, no other subject choices required).

If your choice of subjects are not available due to limitations of the blocks, please email us with the details: office@derehamsixthform.norfolk.sch.uk

The course is made up of four units – two examined and two internally assessed.

Children’s development: children’s developmental progress from birth up to eight years, including the theories, principles and factors relating to development, and the potential impact of a range of factors on a child’s progress through developmental milestones.

Keeping children safe: health and safety and safeguarding responsibilities of an individual working in an early years setting, including emergency best practices and when to address concerns about a child’s welfare.

Play and learning: the concept of play, the influences of theories and approaches to play, and the benefits of play and learning activities for children.

Research and reflective practice: the influence of research findings on policy and provisions for children and how this influences the behaviours and expectations of an individual working in an early years setting.

Assessment

The units on Children’s development and Keeping children safe will be assessed with an exam and make up 50% of the BTEC. The units on Play and learning and Research and reflective practive will be assessed internally and make up the remaining 50%.

44444 as a minimum entry requirement. To become an Early Years Educator the government require you to have at least a Level 4 in GCSE English Language and Mathematics in addition to your Level 3 Qualification.

Jobs that BTEC Early Childhood Development could lead to:

Early Years Educator; Paediatric Occupations Therapist; Nursery Practitioner; Primary School Teacher; After School Clubs Practitioner.