T Level Foundation: Education and Early Years

This course is designed to equip students with the knowledge, skills, and behaviours necessary to progress onto the T Level pathway in Education and Early Years. Through a combination of academic study and practical experience, learners will develop key competencies that directly align with the demands of the early years and education sector.

• Work Readiness and Core Skills: Students will gain practical skills and insights related to the sector, preparing them for real-world roles. This includes work-related activities designed to develop essential skills such as communication, teamwork, and problem-solving that are crucial for success in early years and education.
• Employer-Set Projects: Learners will undertake employer-set projects that connect directly to the industry. These projects are designed to help students meet the national technical outcomes required for their chosen occupation, providing a hands-on, practical approach to learning.
• Strong Employer Links: Students will benefit from links with employer partners, gaining an in-depth understanding of various job roles and pathways within the sector. These partnerships ensure that the skills learned are current and relevant, providing real-world exposure and valuable networking opportunities.

• Plan learning activities to support children’s development
• Prepare environments for learning activities to support children’s development
• Contribute to the assessment of children’s development
• Develop strong digital literacy and aptitude with the latest technology
• Develop an awareness of special educational needs
• Gain an in depth understanding of the education and childcare sector

This course has a strong track record of supporting students to secure employment in the early years sector, with many finding jobs locally within just a few months of completing their studies, and some even securing roles before they leave college. This success is largely due to our excellent working relationships with placement providers, ensuring that learners gain practical, real-world experience that leads directly to employment.

•            Expert Tutors: Learn from tutors who have extensive experience in the early years sector. Our teaching staff possess specialist qualifications and deep knowledge of the field, bringing invaluable insights and industry relevance to their teaching.
•            Regular Work Placements: As part of the course, students participate in regular work placements to enhance their skills, providing hands-on experience in various settings, such as nurseries, schools, and childminding services. These placements are crucial for building employability skills and confidence.
•            Cross-College Events: Students have the opportunity to participate in a range of cross-college events, where they can engage with other learners, share experiences, and develop further skills in a collaborative environment.
•            Guest Speakers: We regularly host guest speaker sessions featuring experts from different areas of the early years sector. These sessions include representatives from children’s services, day nurseries, primary and special schools, children’s centres, and other related fields, offering students valuable insights and industry connections.
•             Strong Links with Early Years Settings: Our course has well-established connections with various early years settings, including nurseries, primary schools, childcare facilities, children’s centres, childminders, special schools, and even a local Children’s Hospital. These partnerships provide diverse opportunities for students to gain experience in different environments, helping them to find the right career path within the sector.

This comprehensive approach ensures that learners are well-prepared for the workforce, equipped with both the knowledge and practical skills required for a successful career in early years and education.

5 GCSE’s at grade 3+ including English and maths.

A clear enhanced DBS check.

Successful interview with a course tutor and a character reference.

A positive attitude towards learning and progression.

You can apply using our online application form and clicking the Apply button at the top of this page. For more information support with your enquiry or application please contact Student Services by emailing contact@nnc.ac.uk or by calling 01909 504500.

Upon completing this course, you will have the option to continue your education and progress onto the T-level in Education and Early Years.

16-18 year olds do not need to pay course fees.

If you need further advice or guidance please contact the Enquiries Team on 01909 504500.