Early Years Educator
University of DerbyBuxton Campus, United Kingdom
Course overview
Launch a rewarding career – perfect for 16–18-year-olds passionate about working with children and shaping their early development. Elite qualification – T Levels are equivalent to 3 A-Levels, carrying UCAS points, and prepare you for higher education, apprenticeships, or professional roles. Hands-on industry experience – complete a minimum of 750 hours in real-world placements with nurseries, schools, and childcare providers.
Learn from experts – guidance from experienced tutors and industry professionals ensures you gain practical and theoretical knowledge. Develop specialist skills – build expertise in safeguarding, SEND, behaviour management, play, attachment, and working with families. Open doors to exciting careers – progress further to roles such as Early Years Practitioner, Primary School Teacher, Childminder, or Special Educational Needs Co-ordinator.
Key highlights
- Minimum 750 hours of placements in nurseries, schools and childcare providers
- T Level qualification equivalent to three A Levels
- Specialist skills in safeguarding, SEND and behaviour management
- Covers play, attachment and working with families
- Taught by experienced tutors and industry professionals
- Prepares you for higher education, apprenticeships or professional roles
Entry requirements
Elite qualification – T Levels are equivalent to 3 A-Levels, carrying UCAS points, and prepare you for higher education, apprenticeships, or professional roles. Hands-on industry experience – complete a minimum of 750 hours in real-world placements with nurseries, schools, and childcare providers. Learn from experts – guidance from experienced tutors and industry professionals ensures you gain practical and theoretical knowledge.
Scholarships
Full Payment Discount
If you pay your annual tuition fee in full ahead of enrolment, you will benefit from a £1,000 discount.
Up to £1,000Sports Scholarships - Individual and Team Sport Scholar
Up to £3,000 fee subsidy and support services.
Sports Scholarships - Performance Team Sports Scholar
Up to £3,000 fee subsidy and support services.
Talented Athlete Award
Please contact the provider.
Vice-Chancellor's Scholarships
Vice-Chancellor’s Scholarships - £2,000
Up to £2,000
Careers this course leads to
- Early Years Practitioner
- Primary School Teacher
- Childminder
- Special Educational Needs Co-ordinator
Admission
Applications are made through AHZ at no cost. Share your transcripts, English test scores and personal statement, and your AHZ Counsellor will review your profile, submit your application to University of Derby, and guide you through interview, offer, CAS and visa — right up to enrolment.
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