Duration

09 – 14 Months

Accreditation

OTHM

Overview

The Level 5 Extended Diploma in Early Childhood Education is a vocational qualification aiming to develop advanced knowledge, skills and professional practice in early years education. It builds on prior learning (typically a Level 4 qualification or equivalent experience) and prepares learners for leadership roles in early -year settings. It is academically aligned with higher education standards (e.g., the second year of a bachelor’s degree).

Do You Need to Be Working to Take This Qualification?

Learners are not required to be employed in an early year or childcare setting to undertake the Level 5 Extended Diploma in Early Childhood Education.

Equivalences

Level 4 qualifications denote practical knowledge, skills, capacities, and competencies that are academically recognised as equivalent to the first year of a UK Bachelor’s Degree.

Delivery Methods

Level 5 Diploma qualifications represent practical knowledge, skills, capabilities and competences that are assessed in academic terms as being equivalent to Higher National Diplomas (HND) and Year 2 of a three-year UK Bachelor’s degree programme.

Learners are able to:

  • Access all course materials, including online modules and written assignments.
  • Receive continuous support from qualified tutors.
  • Access the LCPS online learning portal 24/7, providing a user-friendly and flexible study experience.
  • Obtain detailed assignment briefings and comprehensive study notes.
  • Receive assignment marking and constructive feedback.
  • Study fully accredited UK qualifications.
  • Benefit from dedicated customer support via chat, telephone, or email (Monday to Friday).
  • Receive full academic and administrative support throughout the duration of the course until completion.

Duration

Level 5 Extended Diploma in Early Childhood Education is available in 2 modes:

  • 09 Months (Fast Track)
  • 14 Months

Accreditation

Level 5 Extended Diploma in Early Childhood Education is accredited by Ofqual awarding body.

othm

Course Delivery

  • Online

Entry Requirements

  • Learners must be 18 years and above.
  • Relevant Level 3 qualification or equivalent qualification

Module Structure

Level 5 Extended Diploma in Early Childhood Education qualification consists of 12 mandatory units.  
Mandatory Units – Level 4 Level Credits
Academic Writing and Research Skills 4 20
Nurturing Growth and Development in Early Childhood 4 20
Fostering Collaborative and Inclusive Relationships in Early Childhood Setting 4 20
Learning and Development Through Play 4 20
Unlocking Words: Exploring Early Language and Communication 4 20
Early Personal, Social and Emotional Development 4 20
Mandatory Units – Level 5 Level Credits
Exploring Early Years Pedagogy and Best Practices 5 20
Understanding Child Behaviour: Theoretical Perspectives and Insights 5 20
Inclusion and Diversity: Supporting Children with Special Needs and Disabilities in Early Education 5 20
Safeguarding; Child Protection and Keeping Children Safe 5 20
Emerging Literacies in the Early Years and Digital Resources 5 20
Understanding Transitions in Early Childhood 5 20

What could this qualification lead to?

Learners undertaking this qualification may work in job roles such as:
  • Early Years Practitioner
  • Nursery Supervisor or Room Leader
  • Preschool or Childcare Coordinator
  • Early Years Curriculum Assistant
  • Teaching Assistant in early years settings
Learners who complete this qualification with the London College of Professional Studies (LCPS) may progress to further study at a range of recognised UK universities.
  • Coventry University
  • Canterbury Christ Church University
  • Sunderland University
  • Bath Spa University
  • Buckinghamshire University
  • University of Derby
  • University of Northampton
  • Anglia Ruskin University
  • University of Portsmouth
  • and others.

Progression

  • Learners may progress to the Level 6 Diploma in Early Childhood Education or an equivalent qualification in education, childcare, or early years management.
  • The qualification also provides entry routes to a top-up bachelor’s degree (BA or BSc) in early childhood studies, education, or a related discipline at a recognised UK university, subject to individual entry requirements.
  • It serves as a solid foundation for learners aspiring to pursue teacher training, Early Years Teacher Status (EYTS), or Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) through further study.

Assessment

  • Assessment is via assignment submission.
  • No Exams
  • There are no practical observations required to complete this course