Ofqual began its operations in April 2010. It was set up under the Apprenticeships, Skills, Children and Learning Act 2009 and is covered by the Education Act 2011. Ofqual stands for “The Office of Qualifications and Examinations Regulation”. It is a non-ministerial government department that legalises qualifications, exams and tests within England. The body was established in an interim form and is operated as a part of the Qualifications and Curriculum Authority (QCA). Ofqual took over the supervisory functions, which were undertaken by the QCA at one time.

Before Ofqual, the QCA regulated awarding bodies, qualifications and examinations. Ofqual ensures that qualifications are fair, the standards are secure and public confidence is maintained.

The course will be directly delivered to you, and you have 12 months access to the online learning platform from the date you joined the course.  The course is self-paced and you can complete it in stages, revisiting the lectures at any time.

• Qualification type: Level 3 Award
• Qualification title: Level 3 Award in Childcare and Education
• Level: 3
• Guided Learning Hours (GLH): 180
• Total Qualification Time (TQT): 227

This qualification is suitable for a range of learners either working or wishing to work in early years education and care.

You should be at least 16 years old. We do not set any other entry requirements but colleges or training providers may have their own guidelines.

• This course can be completed through two flexible study options to suit your lifestyle:
  • Standard Course Plan (3 months) – ideal for learners balancing other commitments.
  • Fast Track Option (1 month) – 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 3 Award requires approximately 180 guided learning hours.

T&C apply

To achieve this qualification, learners must complete 2 mandatory units. You will complete assignments which will be assessed by a tutor.

Grading system: A*-D (to pass an assignment you must achieve a grade D or above).

Upon successful completion of the course, you will be awarded the ‘Level 3 Award in Childcare and Education’.

Once you have completed this course you can then progress to further studies, including the Level 3 Certification in Childcare and Education and Level 3 Diploma in Childcare and Education to become a qualified early years educator.

The Level 3 Award in Childcare and Education enables learners to access Higher Education. Alternatively, learners can progress into various job roles in the statutory, voluntary or private sectors such as:

• Early Years Educator (Diploma only) – £16,000 per annum
• Practitioner in annum- £20381 per annum
• Practitioner in reception classes in primary schools – £25,714 per annum
• Pre-school worker – £25216 per annum
• Home based childcarer – £22,296 per annum
• Nanny – £35,000 per annum