Early Childhood Studies Block A

Applications Open: - 7th November 2025

Applications Close: - 31st March 2026. If you require any further information after our closing date please do contact nicola.owenhughes@swale.at

Entry Requirements: - Grade 4 and above in 5 GCSEs Including English and Maths for Level 3 programmes, higher grades are required for some subjects

How to Apply: - Please apply via KentChoices

Details of our Pathways and Option Blocks can be seen in the Gallery or viewed here

If you have any questions regarding the Sixth Form, our courses, facilities or our application process, please do contact us, either by telephone (01233 614613) or email (tns-sixthform-team@swale.at). We will be happy to arrange either a telephone call or meeting to answer these. We are happy to forward subject specific questions to subject leaders who may be better placed to answer your queries. We look forward to hearing from you and to meeting you.

If you are passionate about working with young children and helping to shape their future, then this is the perfect pathway for you. This course provides a solid foundation in child development, education and care. This will equip you with the practical skills and knowledge needed to succeed in the early year’s sector.

Course content: 4 Mandatory units:

Children’s development External (Exam, marked by Pearson)

Keeping children safe External (Exam, marked by Pearson)

Play and Learning Internal (Course work)

Research and Reflective Internal (Course work) practice in an early year setting.

The early year’s sector is experiencing significant growth, making it an exciting and rewarding field to enter. With a BTEC Level 3 National Extended Certificate in Early

Childhood Development, you will be well-prepared to make a positive impact on the lives of young children and their families.

Students will require a minimum of 5 GCSEs grade 4+ including Maths and English Language.

By completing the Early Childhood Development AAQ Level 3 Extended Certificate, you will be well-equipped to pursue a rewarding career in the early year’s sector and contribute to the development of young children. This will include opportunities to work in nurseries, preschools and primary schools. This could also lead to becoming a nurse or a social worker.