T Level Education & Early Years

Location

Applicant Type

School Leavers

Level

Level 3

Subject

Early Years & Childcare

Course Overview

The Education and Early Years T Level is an ideal choice if you’re passionate about working with children and want to play an active role in supporting their learning, development and wellbeing.

This course suits people who enjoy working with others, are patient and responsible, and want to build the practical skills and knowledge needed for a rewarding career in early years education and childcare.

Throughout the programme, you will develop a strong understanding of how children grow, learn and behave, alongside learning about safeguarding, health and safety, equality and diversity. You will explore the role of families and carers and learn how to create safe, inclusive and nurturing environments where children can feel supported and thrive. This knowledge helps you understand the real impact early years professionals have on children’s lives.

The 'occupational specialism' focuses on early years education and childcare, allowing you to develop hands‑on skills in supporting play, learning and development. You will learn how to plan, deliver and review activities, work positively with children to help them progress, and build effective relationships with colleagues, parents, carers and other professionals to meet children’s needs.

A key feature of the course is the industry placement, lasting a minimum of 750 hours over two years. This gives you valuable real‑world experience in an early years setting, helping you grow in confidence, professionalism and practical ability. By the end of the course, you will be well prepared to progress into employment, apprenticeships or further study within education and early years sectors, ready to make a real difference in children’s lives.

Entry Requirements

To study this course you will require 4 GCSEs at grade 4 including English and Maths.

Assessment and Feedback

The Education and Early Years T Level is assessed through a combination of practical work, written examinations and an employer‑set project, allowing learners to demonstrate both knowledge and real‑world skills. Assessment includes coursework and practical assessments based on realistic early years and education scenarios, alongside a substantial industry placement where learners are assessed on their professional skills, behaviours and ability to apply learning in the workplace. Learners also complete written exams covering core areas such as child development, safeguarding and legislation, as well as an employer‑set assessment that involves responding to a real industry brief through research, planning and practical application, ensuring they are fully prepared for employment or further study.

Fees and Funding

This course is free to UK learners under 19 who are not in employment

Future study/career options

The T Level provides a direct pathway into employment, apprenticeships or further study, including higher education and early years teaching routes, making it an ideal option for learners who prefer a practical, career‑focused alternative to A Levels.

Study Commitment

2 years

Additional Information

Full Time