Course Overview
The BTEC Level 3 National Extended Certificate in Children’s Play, Learning and Development (CPLD) provides a broad basis of study of the early years sector and is equivalent in size to one A Level.
This qualification is designed to support progression to higher education when taken as part of a programme of study that includes other appropriate BTEC Nationals or A Levels. There is one written examination and one three-hour case study supervised assessment task to be completed alongside 2 internally assessed assignment type units where teachers mark coursework. Units are assessed using a grading scale of Distinction (D), Merit (M), Pass (P), Near Pass (N) and Unclassified (U).
The BTEC Level 3 National Extended Certificate in CPLD qualification is awarded at the grade range Pass to Distinction*
| Unit number | Unit Title | Guided Learning Hours | How assessed |
| 1 | Children’s Development | 120 | External |
| 2 | Development of Children’s Communication, Literacy and Numeracy Skills | 120 | External |
| 3 | Play and Learning | 60 | Internal |
| 5 | Keeping Children Safe | 60 | Internal |
Work Placement Requirements
50 hours – at least one setting, with children from birth to 7 years 11 months
Career Opportunities
Nursery assistant, nursery nurse, nursery manager, pre-school early years co-ordinator, classroom assistant, health visitor assistant, child minder, early years assistant.
Entry requirements for BTEC Level 3 National Extended Certificate in Children’s Play, Learning and Development
GCSE Child Development at grade B is essential.
Emily Campbell received a Gold Award for BTEC Child and Social Care Learner of the Year 2020.
