Early Childhood Development

Sixth Form Open Evening- Wednesday 5th November 5-7pm

Applications Open - Now!

Applications Close - End of Term 4 2026. Please contact Mrs Silvester if you would like to apply after this date (lucy.silvester@swale.at)

Entry Requirements: - Generally 5 grade 5s or above in GCSE, including English and Maths but some subjects do vary.

How to Apply: - Please apply via KentChoices

This course provides students with a comprehensive and practical understanding of the sector, preparing them for progression to Higher Education and ultimately, a career working with children. This qualification equips students with the necessary knowledge and skills in key areas such as children's development from birth to eight years, safeguarding, play and learning, and reflective practice. A significant focus of the AAQ is to bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application. Work experience placement is not mandatory but is strongly recommended. This supports students to develop essential vocational skills and a deeper understanding of the real-world demands of the early years environment.

Students will study four key topic areas: Children’s Development, Keeping Children Safe, Play and Learning, and Research and Reflective Practice.

The course is assessed via external assessment (50% of the qualification): two externally marked exams, each lasting 1 hour and 45 minutes, and an Internal Assessment (50% of the qualification): students complete assignments and tasks that demonstrate applied knowledge in units such as "Play and Learning" and "Research and Reflective Practice".

In addition to the general requirements for access to Level 3 courses, applicants would be expected to have a grade 4 in both English Language and Mathematics and at least a Level 2 pass in Child Development and Care if it was taken as an option.

This vocational qualification will give students access to university courses to train for careers such as teaching, social work, paediatric nursing, speech and language therapy, or educational psychology. Alternatively, it could lead to employment as early years practitioners, nursery assistants, playworkers, or teaching assistants.