V Level - Early Childhood Development

Please refer to EN's Entry Requirements Guide for specific advice on our Admissions Policy. This guide is supplied at interview to prospective students and is also available to Schools & Careers Advisers.

This qualification is equivalent to one full A Level and provides a broad introduction into the education and early years sector, developing both theoretical understanding and practical skills that are highly valued by employers and universities.

You will gain transferable knowledge in areas such as planning learning, assessing, safeguarding, communication and inclusive practice, all of which are essential for working with children and young people across a range of settings.

The course is designed to support progression into higher education particularly in subjects such as education, early childhood studies and health and social care. It also prepares you for progression directly into employment through pathways such as Teaching Assistant or Early Years Educator apprenticeships.

This qualification is typically studied alongside other subjects as part of a 2-year programme, allowing you to achieve the equivalent of 3 A Levels. It carries UCAS points and is recognised by universities, helping you access a wide range of degree courses and careers within the education and childcare sector.

Throughout the 2- year course, you will explore a range of topics that will develop your knowledge, understanding and practical skills needed to work in the education sector. The course combines academic study with real-world application, helping you to become a confident and effective professional.

You will be assessed through a combination of examinations and coursework units, allowing you to demonstrate both your theoretical knowledge and your practical skills.

Topics you will cover are:

Planning Learning and Teaching- You will learn how to plan and deliver engaging learning experiences for children and young people. This includes exploring different teaching approaches, creating activities and using assessment methods to measure progress.

Communication and Professional Relationships- You will develop strong communication skills, learning how to work effectively with children, families, carers and other professionals. You will explore how to adapt your communication style for different situations, helping you to build positive relationships and support children’s outcomes.

Inclusive Practice in Education and Childcare- You will learn how to create inclusive learning environments where all children can succeed. This includes recognising and removing barriers to learning, and adapting activities to meet the needs of individuals.

Health, Safety and Safeguarding- You will gain a clear understanding of how to keep children safe in education and childcare settings. You will explore safeguarding responsibilities, legal requirements and how to carry out risk assessments to create safe and secure learning environments.

Assessment and Reflective Practice- You will learn how to assess children’s progress and use this information to plan next steps in learning. You will also develop reflective practice skills, allowing you to evaluate your own performance and continually improve.

Exam - 50%

Coursework - 50%

Entry requirements: at least 5+5 in GCSE Science; 5 in English Language; and 4 in GCSE Maths

How can I progress after completing this subject?

This course will help you progress to a wide range of further study or career opportunities, including:

· Teaching (Primary or Early Years)

· Teaching Assistant

· Early Years Practitioner

· Nursing

· Social Work