Specification/Examination Board: Pearson/Edexcel

Course Overview

The BTEC Level 3 National Extended Certificate in Early Childhood Development is equivalent in size to one A Level. It is designed for students who are interested in learning about the children's care and education sector (0-8 years) alongside other fields of study, with a view to progressing to a wide range of higher education courses, not necessarily in early years-related subjects. The course includes work experience in at least one setting, with children from birth to 8 years.

SUMMARY OF COURSE CONTENT AND ASSESSMENT

The externally assessed units require students to sit two examinations of 80 marks lasting 1 hour and 45 minutes each. Students will be assessed through a number of short and long answer questions. Students will need to explore and relate to case studies. The questions will assess understanding of theories and models of child development and potential factors that impact upon children's development from birth up to eight years as well as their understanding of health, safety and safeguarding in early years settings.

GRADING

Units are assessed using a grading scale of Distinction (D), Merit (M), Pass (P), Near Pass (N) and Unclassified (U). The grade of Near Pass (N) is used for externally assessed units only. The BTEC Level 3 National Extended Certificate in Early Childhood Development qualification is awarded at the grade range Pass to Distinction*.

PROGRESSION OPPORTUNITIES

An A-level in Technology & Design (Product Design) is suitable for students wishing to pursue a career within the broad field of Healthcare, Nursing, Teaching, Social Work and Psychology amongst many others.

Entry requirements for BTEC Extended Certificate Early Childhood Development 

Grade B or above in CCEA GCSE Child Development
Or
Grade B or above in GCSE Psychology