Diploma for the Children's workforce

Applications Open - Monday 27 October 2025

Applications Close - Open all year

How to Apply - Please apply through KentChoices and use your KentChoices login which your school should provide.

PLEASE NOTE - Popular courses can fill up quickly so apply early to avoid disappointment

If you have any queries regarding the courses, please contact EKC Ashford College

Application Limits - You can make up to 5 applications to Colleges within the EKC Group, that is:

• EKC Ashford College
• EKC Broadstairs College*
• EKC Canterbury College*
• EKC Dover College
• EKC Folkestone College*
• EKC Sheppey College

*Junior Colleges exist in these locations.

Please only add one course or T Level per application, except for A Levels at EKC Canterbury College, where up to 4 A Level courses can be added per application. At your interview, you and the tutors can discuss the best level and courses in order for you to progress.

If you’re passionate about making a difference in the lives of children, young people, and families, this course is the perfect starting point. The Level 3 Diploma for the Children and Young People's Workforce equips you with the knowledge and practical skills needed to work in a variety of social care and learning and development support roles. Covering key areas such as child development, safeguarding, communication, while also gaining practical experience in real settings. This first-hand approach ensures you develop the confidence and skills to support children and young people effectively in schools, homes, and community environments. Whether you’re looking to work in family support, youth services or social care, this qualification will help you take the next step toward a fulfilling career.

This course will give you the essential knowledge and skills needed to work with children and young people from birth to 19 years old. You’ll explore key areas of social care and learning and development support services, preparing you for a range of careers in childcare and support roles.

During the course, you will learn:

• Communication skills – Understand the importance of communication, different ways people communicate, and how to communicate effectively with children, young people, and colleagues.

• Personal and professional development – Learn how to improve your skills and provide high-quality support in childcare and education settings.

• Equality, Diversity and Inclusion – Discover how to promote inclusivity and create a safe, welcoming environment for all children and young people.

• Duty of care and Safeguarding – Understand your responsibilities in ensuring the safety and well-being of children, how to identify risks, and how to handle complaints or concerns.

• Child and young person development – Learn how children grow and develop from birth to 19 years, and understand the factors that can affect their development, such as disabilities, poverty, or personal circumstances.

• Encouraging positive behaviour – Develop strategies to support children's social and emotional development, encourage positive behaviour, and create a nurturing learning environment.

• Building strong relationships – Gain the skills to form positive, professional relationships with children, young people, carers, and other professionals.

• Health and Safety in childcare – Understand how to create safe environments and respond to health and safety concerns in childcare and education settings.

• Assessment and planning – Learn how to assess children's needs, set goals, and create support plans to help them succeed.

• Supporting educational achievement – Discover how to help children and young people reach their full potential in school and beyond.

• Professional practice – Gain practical experience in social care and education, preparing you for real-world roles in children's services.

This course provides a strong foundation for careers in childcare and support services, helping you make a real difference in the lives of children and young people.

Completing this qualification opens the door to a variety of rewarding career paths, depending on your chosen pathway. It prepares you for a range of social care and learning and development support roles, as well as further study opportunities.

Social Care Pathway

This pathway prepares you for roles supporting children, young people, and families in different settings, including homes, schools, and community services. Possible career options include:

• Education Support Worker – Work with families of pre-school children, offering guidance and support in early learning and development.

• Foster Carer – Provide a safe and supportive home for children in need of care.

• Children and Families Support Worker – Assist families facing challenges, helping them access services and improve their well-being.

• Family Court Advisory and Support Service Adviser – Work with children and families involved in court proceedings, ensuring the child's voice is heard.

• Youth Work and Social Care – Progress to further study or training in youth work, social care, or community care services.

• Family Centre Worker – Support families by providing advice, parenting support, and community-based services.

• Community Care Officer – Work within social care services, supporting children and young people in need.

Learning and Development Support Services Pathway

If you're interested in helping children and young people succeed in education, this pathway offers roles such as:

• Learning Mentor – Support students in schools and colleges, helping them overcome challenges and reach their full potential.