Do I need to study Early Learning and Care (Early Childhood Education and Childcare) at Level 5 before Level 6?
This is a very interesting question. It is important to have the answer so that you can choose the course that is right for you.
Minimum Qualification or Room Leader Qualification?
If you wish to work as an educator in the Early Learning and Care (ECEC) sector, then you are required under current legislation to hold a minimum of a Level 5 Major Award in Early Learning and Care (ECEC). With the Level 5 qualification you can work in a registered Early Learning and Care/Childcare setting. However, if you wish to work in a supervisory role as an ELC (ECEC) room leader, then you will need to obtain a Level 6 Major Award in Early Learning and Care (ECEC).
Do I need to complete the Level 5 Major Award in ELC (Early Childhood Education and Childcare) before I start the Level 6 course?
Yes. This has changed since January 2024. You must now hold a full Level 5 qualification in ELC or ECEC to progress to level 6 and obtain a Major Award in Early Learning and Care
What about my employment prospects from gaining a Major Award in Early Learning and Care (Early Childhood Education and Care?
If you want to work with the younger age groups and with the preschool age/ECCE children you must hold a Level 5 qualification in ELC/ ECEC.
However, if you wish to be a supervisor or a room leader or perhaps an owner of an ELC (Childcare) service, you will need to complete the Level 6 Major Award in ELC (ECEC).
You can also work as an AIM support worker in a preschool/ECCE room with the Level 5 qualification.
What is an AIM support worker?
This is a qualified childcare practitioner who provides support and assistance to the children and staff in a preschool/ECCE setting where there is a child with additional needs attending.
What Forus Training recommends:
Enrol in our Level 6 Major Award Stage 2 Advanced Certificate in Early Learning and Care (ELC) , if you hold a Level 5 Major Award in ELC (ECEC) and want to work in an ELC or Child Care setting, as a supervisor/room leader or indeed, if you wish to open your own ELC service.
Enrol in our Level 5 Major Award Stage 1 Certificate in Early Learning and Care (ELC), if you wish to work in an ELC (ECEC) setting as an Early Childhood Educator.
Once you complete the Level 5 Major Award in ELC you may then progress to Level 6 ELC programme. Following completion of the Level 6 Major Award in ELC, you can further progress to higher education in a University or Institute of Technology.
If you’re still unsure or have any questions, please contact us.
