Early Childhood Development Level 3 AAQ (Extended Certificate)

The qualification is a 2-year course with assessment taking place during both year 12 and 13.

UCAS points awarded as with A levels. Assignments, units and final marks will be awarded as: Pass (E), Merit (C), Distinction (A), Distinction* (A*).

The course is designed to provide an understanding of children’s care and education between the ages of 0-8 years. It supports progression onto further education when studied alongside other A levels or AAQs. The course is aimed at young people who are interested in a career working with children, the Health sector, Social care sector or teacher training. This could be through studying a related course at university, taking an apprenticeship or pursuing a career after completing sixth form study.

Early Childhood Development offers 4 units that are internally or externally assessed. The course is equivalent in size to one A level and is awarded UCAS points to support entry to university.

The course also offers the opportunity to take part in placements in Year 12, where you will develop valuable work-related skills and gain real-life experience within the sector.

You will complete assessments internally that will be marked by your teachers and moderated by the exam board. You will also complete formal exams that will be marked and assessed by the exam board.

You will learn about the principles of child development between the ages of 0-8 years including key theories and the importance of play. The course also covers theoretical perspectives and philosophies relating to play. You will also examine key legislation and guidance that is in place to safeguard children and complete a reflection on current practice in an early childhood setting.

Unit Title Method of assessment

Children’s Development External

Keeping Children Safe External

Play and Learning Internal

Research and Reflective Practice in an Early Childhood Setting Internal

You do not need to have previously studied Child Development at level 2 to take the level 3 qualification.

Grade 4 in 2 sciences is required. A minimum of a grade 4 in GCSE English Language and Maths is needed. If BTEC Health and Social Care is previously studied a minimum level 2 Pass would be needed. However, students need to be aware that for some university courses, GCSE grade 5 or above may be required.

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Sixth Form option blocks

There are many options available following successful completion of level 3 study. As mentioned previously, progression onto a variety of university courses can be achieved. These include child nursing, teaching and social work.