These qualifications cover the care and development of children from birth to 7 years. They require a learner to demonstrate an understanding of development across this age range, however, observation of actual working practice is on the age range of the children with whom the learner is currently caring for.

• Level 2 Diploma for the Early Years Practitioner
  For Early Years Practitioners who may be new entrants to the occupation and/or whose responsibilities at work are limited in scope.

• Level 3 Diploma for the Early Years Workforce (Early Years Educator)
  For Early Years staff (and similar) whose working role calls for competence across a varied range of responsibilities. Entrants will be required to have experience of working with, or caring for, children. EYEs are required to hold a GCSE (A-C, 4-9) in Maths and English, or equivalent Functional Skills qualifications.

• Level 4 Diploma in Advanced Childcare Practice and Management
  For level 3 qualified Early Years staff wishing to develop into advanced practitioners or managers.

• Level 5 Diploma in Leadership and Management for the Children & Young People’s Workforce
  For managers and deputy managers.