Education and Early Years T Level

Applications Open - 12 November 2025

Applications Close - 12 April 2026

Entry Requirements - All entry requirements can be found in our course directory here.

How to Apply - To apply for Post-16 at Sir Geoffrey Leigh Academy, please follow the link to Applicca, our admissions registration form: https://sgla.applicaa.com/inyear

Across two years of study, students spend 750 hours on block placements with employers, learning on the job with partner nursery providers and partner primary academies. Students spend the rest of their time in school, developing their theoretical and conceptual understanding of the principles and practices of education within the Early Years occupational specialism.

Course Content:

Core Component (wider context; supporting education; safeguarding, health and safety and wellbeing; behaviour; parents, families and carers; working with others; child development; observation and assessment; reflective practice; equality and diversity; special educational needs and disability; English as an Additional Language)

Occupational Specialism (support and promotion of children’s play, development and early education; development of relationships with children to facilitate their development; planning, providing and reviewing care, play and educational opportunities to enable children to progress; safeguarding and the promotion of health, safety and wellbeing; working in partnerships with colleagues, parents, carers and other professionals to support child development)

In Year 1 of the course, students are assessed for the Core Component of the course. This takes the form of two written examinations and one Employer-set Project. Students are graded A* to E and U at the end of Year 1. Both the written examinations and the project can be retaken in Year 2, if required.

In Year 2 of the course, students are assessed for the Occupational Component of the course. This takes the form of three synoptic assignments that relate to the time spent on placement. Students are graded Distinction, Merit, Pass or U at the end of Year 2.

• 5+ GCSE 9-4 grades
• Grade 4 English Language
• Grade 4 Mathematics