• Access Duration:  365 Days
• Awarded by: Qualifi
• Qualification Level:  Level 5
• Qualification Number: 610/0226/4 
• Guided Learning Hours (GLH): 675
• Total Qualification Time (TQT): 1680
• Credits: 120

• Understand key ideas and principles in early years learning and childcare and explain how they underpin everyday practice.
• Describe the responsibilities of your professional role, including how policies, legislation, and standards guide your work.
• Apply knowledge of early years principles to plan and support children’s learning in inclusive, practical, and child-centred ways.
• Demonstrate effective approaches to supporting children’s learning and development within an early years setting.
• Analyse how early years settings operate, including how policies, teamwork, and practice influence outcomes for children.
• Evaluate and propose improvements to enhance quality in early years provision for the benefit of children and staff teams.

The Qualifi Level 5 Diploma in Early Learning and Childcare is perfect for anyone ready to take their early years career to the next level. It’s designed for learners who already have experience in childcare and want to develop leadership skills, deepen their knowledge, and confidently take on more responsibility in early years settings. 

This course is perfect for:

• Experienced practitioners wanting to move into leadership or senior roles in nurseries, preschools, or childcare centres. 
• Early years staff aiming to improve the quality of care and learning experiences for children. 
• Those looking to enhance practical skills in safeguarding, inclusion, wellbeing, and child‑centred leadership. 
• Professionals interested in mentoring, supporting teams, and driving best practice across early years settings. 
• Learners who want a recognised Level 5 qualification to progress to higher-level study or specialist areas in early years education. 

• Entry is through a friendly interview with the team at South London College, where we’ll take the time to understand your experience, goals, and suitability for the programme. Every applicant is considered individually.
• The course is suitable for learners aged 19 and above. While there are no specific formal qualifications required, holding a Level 4 Certificate in Education and Training can be helpful. Most importantly, you’ll need to demonstrate that you’re ready to study at Level 5 (equivalent to the second year of a degree), and we’re happy to guide you on what this means.
• You’ll need a minimum of 100 hours of teaching or practical experience, including working with groups of children. Each unit also includes practical elements, which our team will clearly explain and support you in completing successfully.
• Applicants without formal qualifications may still apply with significant work experience, and our team will be happy to assess your qualifications and help you get started with confidence.

• This course can be completed through two flexible study options to suit your lifestyle:
  • Standard Course Plan (9 months) – ideal for learners balancing other commitments.
  • Fast Track Option (4 months) – perfect for those who can dedicate intensive study time.
• Most learners complete within their chosen timeframe, though some may finish earlier depending on personal circumstances and available study time. We accommodate your pace with unlimited support for 12 months. This Level 5 Diploma requires approximately 675 guided learning hours.

T&C apply

• There are no final examinations.
• Learners are assessed through assignments and practical work linked to each unit’s outcomes. 
• There is a requirement for a minimum of 100 hours of teaching/practical experience, including work with groups of children, and this practice is observed and assessed. 
• Assessments include written and practical evidence, such as completed assignments, reflective work, case studies, and observations in real settings. 

Mentor Guidance and Support

Our experienced mentors will guide and support you throughout the assessment process. You can reach them via email.  

For any questions about assessment methods, processes, or specific qualification requirements, please click ‘Enquire Now’ to connect with our team. 

Your Next Chapter in Early Years Leadership

The Qualifi Level 5 Diploma in Early Learning and Childcare helps you deepen your understanding of child development, strengthen your leadership skills, and confidently take on more responsibility within early years settings. You’ll build advanced knowledge in areas such as safeguarding, inclusive practice, supporting children’s wellbeing, working with families, and improving the quality of care and education in your setting. 

Next Steps for a Potential Academic Progression Pathway

• Step 1: Qualifi Level 6 Extended Diploma in Global Teaching Practice
• Step 2: BA (Hons) Early Years Education (Top Up)
• Step 3: MA in Early Childhood and Education 

Alternative Pathways

• Level 5 Diploma in Special Educational Needs and Disability 
• Level 5 Diploma in Child Psychology and Psychiatry 

If you’re ready to move beyond supporting roles and step into leadership, the Qualifi Level 5 Diploma in Early Learning and Childcare can help you get there. This qualification is designed for experienced practitioners who want to deepen their knowledge, strengthen their leadership skills, and take on greater responsibility within early years settings. This diploma isn’t just about gaining knowledge/ It’s also about growing into a professional who can lead with clarity, care, and confidence.

Potential Roles and Approximate UK Salaries (Glassdoor)

• Nursery Managers: £45,000
• Childcare Centre Managers: £42,000
• Early Years Managers: £40,000
• Deputy Nursery Managers: £35,000
• Senior Early Years Practitioners: £30,000

The Office of Qualifications and Examinations Regulation (Ofqual) is a non-ministerial government department responsible for regulating qualifications, exams, and assessments in England. Ofqual ensures that all qualifications offered by recognised awarding organisations meet rigorous national standards, giving you confidence that any Ofqual-regulated certificate is high-quality and widely accepted by employers and universities.