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  • Course Type
    16-19 Courses
  • Course Code
    EY301
  • Campus
    Twelve Quays
  • Start Date
    9th Sep
  • Level
    Level 3
  • Duration

    2 years

If you like working with children then this is the course for you!
In the UK, the pre-primary education industry is estimated to be worth approximately £4.3bn growing steadily year on year meaning that skilled, caring and qualified professionals are in demand.

The T Level Education and Childcare qualification will equip you with the skills, knowledge and industry experience to start your journey in this rewarding sector.

Equivalent to three A levels, this two year technical qualification has been designed in collaboration with employers and businesses so you can rest assured that the skills you develop are relevant and in demand.

The course combines hands on learning, academic study and a minimum 21 weeks Early Years industry placement. It also gives you the opportunity to specialise as an Early Years Educator.

  • Course Details

    On this course you will develop a general understanding of the education and childcare sector:

    • child development
    • how to support children and young people's education
    • safeguarding, health and safety and wellbeing
    • understanding and managing behaviour
    • observing and assessing children and young people
    • equality and diversity
    • special educational needs and disability
    • English as an additional language
    • working with parents, carers and wider families
    • working with agencies and services that support children, families and carers
    • reflective practice and other forms of professional development

    You will specialise as an Early Years Educator learning how to:

    • Support and promote children's play, development and early education
    • Develop relationships with children to facilitate their development
    • Plan, provide and review care, play and educational opportunities to enable children to progress
    • Safeguard and promote the health, safety and wellbeing of children
    • Work in partnership with colleagues, parents, carers and other professionals to support children's development

    You will also complete an Early Years industry placement with an external employer (750 hours).

  • Entry Guidelines

    • T-Levels are equivalent to three A Levels. They are developed in collaboration with employers to ensure the content meets the need of specific industries and include a significant industry placement.
    • You will need 5 GCSE's at Grade 4 or above. Two of the 5 GCSE's to be maths and English Language at Grade 4 (or functional skill level 2) or above.
    • If you have achieved at least a merit in a level 2 qualification in the subject you want to study and have a maths and English GCSE at Grade 4 or above (or functional skill level 2) you can study at this level.

    Satisfactory DBS

    If English is not your first language, you may need an assessment before enrolling on this course. To discuss further, please contact the ESOL department on 0151 551 7144.

  • Where can I progress to?

    Students who achieve this qualification can progress either on to a university course, a higher level apprenticeship, or enter into the following job roles in line with their Early Years Educator specialism:

    • Nursery Worker
    • Playworker
    • Child Minder
    • Early Years Educator
  • Timetable

    You'll be based at our modern Twelve Quays Campus, close to the waterfront, for three days each week—taking part in your Early Years and Education studies alongside your GCSE Maths and English Language lessons. You'll also spend two days a week in a work placement relevant to your course, gaining valuable real-world experience as you build the skills and knowledge for your future.

    You will receive your individual timetable at the start of your course.

  • Equipment Required

    Students will require access to a laptop, this can be provided by college if needed.

    A placement uniform will be provided.

  • Assessment Methods

    Two written examinations, an employer-set project and synoptic assignments. Students are required to complete and pass all components including their placement to achieve their qualification.

Childcare Case Study Kian Bough

Kian Bough

Childcare & Development Student

I picked Wirral Met because of the work experience opportunities. I want to become a social worker to make a positive impact on a child's life. I was told I wouldn’t make it to college, but here I am in my second year, about to start a degree in childcare – keep set on your goals and keep doing your best.

Hi, I’m Ailz. What I love most about education is the opportunity to make a genuine difference to people’s lives, help them recognise their own potential, and open doors to new careers and pathways. I began my career teaching English in Further Education, before becoming a mentor for trainee teachers through their placement years. I really enjoyed mentoring and coaching trainees, helping them develop their practice and discover their own strengths as teachers. This led me into teacher education, where I now work as a Programme Lead, supporting the next generation of teachers in the Further Education and Skills sector.

I care deeply about social mobility, the importance of positive relationships, and helping students feel confident and engaged in their learning. I’m a nurturing and approachable teacher educator, and I’m committed to ensuring that every trainee I work with feels encouraged, valued, and supported as they develop their practice.

I’m Sasha. What I enjoy most about working in education is helping people build confidence and realise their full potential. I spent 13 years working as a teaching assistant and Learning Support Assistant before moving into teaching Health and Social Care and Access courses with learners aged 16 and over. These experiences shaped my belief in the importance of positive relationships and adapting teaching to meet individual needs.

Mentoring trainee teachers and coaching colleagues sparked my interest in teacher education, which I moved into in 2024. I enjoy helping trainees connect theory with classroom practice, try out new approaches and find their own confidence as teachers. I aim to create a supportive space where they can ask questions, reflect honestly and feel comfortable seeking advice.

I have a degree in Psychology, a master’s in Mental Health, a PGCE, the National Professional Qualification in Leading Teacher Development and a Postgraduate Certificate in Coaching and Mentoring in Education. These studies continue to inform my interests in inclusive teaching, wellbeing, and supporting others to develop their practice.