BTEC Early Childhood Studies AAQ Level 3

Applications Open: - 3rd November 2025

Applications Close: - 31st March 2026

Entry Requirements: - Our Sixth Form entry requirements are five GCSEs at Grade 4 and above for the 'A' Level Pathway (in addition to some individual subject entry requirements) and 4 GCSEs at Grade 4 and above for the Vocational (BTEC) Pathway. The course information gives specific details of course content and entry requirements. Please also refer to the Sixth Form Prospectus for the specific entry requirements for the chosen subjects.

Students need to select the equivalent of 3 A Levels or more. (Triple BTEC counts as 3, Double BTEC counts as 2). Subjects are grouped into option blocks, please be aware that not all combinations are possible.

In addition to academic requirements stated above a place will be dependent on the receipt of a satisfactory school reference.

How to Apply: - Please apply via Kent Choices if you area a student from another school.

Please visit our website www.stanselmscanterbury.org.uk for more information.

The Pearson Level 3 Alternative Academic Qualification BTEC National in Early Childhood Development (Extended Certificate) allows students to engage in a broad investigation of the children’s care and education sector (0-8 years). There are four mandatory units; two examined and two internally assessed. The internally assessed units give students the opportunity to engage in applied knowledge and understanding tasks to develop their early childhood development knowledge.

Students must complete 4 mandatory units.

Unit 1 Children’s Development External

Students explore children’s developmental progress from birth up to eight years. They will examine theories, principles and factors relating to development.

Unit 2 Keeping Children Safe External

Students explore the responsibilities of a professional to maintain health and safety as well as ensuring effective safeguarding measures are in place. They will understand what to do in an emergency and when to address concerns about a child’s welfare.

Unit 3 Play and Learning Internal

Students explore the concept of play, the influence of theories and curriculum approaches to play, and the benefits of play and learning activities for children.

Unit 4 Research and Reflective Practice in an Early Childhood Setting. Internal

Students understand how research findings influence policy and provision for children and are able to reflect on how this influences their own behaviour and expectations in the work placement environment.

4 GCSEs at Grade 4 or above. Grade 3 or above in English Language.

• The Pearson Level 3 Alternative Academic Qualification BTEC National in Early Childhood Development (Extended Certificate) is an Alternative Academic Qualification (AAQ) designed for post-16 students with an interest in Education and Early Years and aiming to progress to higher education as a route to graduate level employment. Equivalent to one A Level in size, it is suitable for students looking to develop their applied knowledge and skills in Education and Early Years as part of a study programme alongside A Levels. Pathways include:

• Education

• Child Psychology

• Social Work