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Sixth Form - AAQ: Early Childhood Development (FSFC)

Barnsley College

Church Street, Barnsley, South Yorkshire, S70 2AX

GCE A/AS Level or Equivalent
Level 3
Health, Public Services and Care

Available start dates

Available start dates

Monday, 01 September 2025
Barnsley 6th form college
2 Year(s)
Full time
Daytime/working hours

Course Summary

Our Early Childhood Development course explores the developmental progress from birth up to eight years of age. You will investigate the health and safety and safeguarding responsibilities of an individual working in an early-year setting, the influence of theories and the benefits of play and learning activities for children. Designed for students with an interest in Education and Early Years and aiming to progress to higher education.

Course Details

Level 3 Alternative Academic Qualification BTEC National in Early Childhood Development (Extended Certificate).

Equivalent to one A Level in size, it is suitable for students looking to develop their applied knowledge and skills in Engineering as part of a study programme alongside A Levels.

The qualification has four mandatory units covering the following topics:

  • Children’s development
  • Keeping Children Safe
  • Play and Learning
  • Research and Reflective Practice

How will it be delivered and assessed?

A combination of 50% externally assessed examinations and 50% internally assessed assignments.

Entry requirements

Average GCSE point score of 5 or above including GCSE Grade 5 in English Language.

Your next steps...

This course has a wide range of progression opportunities, which can lead to Higher Education courses such as:

  • BSc (Hons) Nursing, Adult Nursing or Child Nursing
  • BA (Hons) Teacher Training or Childhood and Early Years Studies
  • BA (Hons) Social Work
  • BSc (Hons) Psychology

Additional information


For more courses like this, check our courses page.