Course Overview
Level 4 Diploma in Early Learning and Childcare
UK-Accredited | Hands-On Training | Pathway to Leadership Roles
Unlock new career opportunities in early years education with this Level 4 Diploma — designed for professionals ready to step into Advanced Practitioner roles. Whether you're already working in childcare or seeking to enhance your qualifications, this flexible, practical programme empowers you to lead, teach, and inspire with confidence.
🎯 Who is this course for?
Childcare professionals with a Level 3 qualification aiming to upskill
Practitioners looking to step into leadership or teaching roles
Learners passionate about early years development and inclusive education
✅ What You’ll Learn
Plan, deliver, and assess inclusive teaching and learning
Understand legislative frameworks around equality, diversity, and safeguarding
Use resources effectively to support early years development
Conduct initial and diagnostic assessments
Reflect on your own teaching practice and leadership style
Entry Requirements
Aged 18 or above
Already hold a full Level 3 early years or childcare qualification
Currently employed in an early years setting (required for practical observation)
Qualification Structure
📘 Mandatory Units (Total: 34 Credits)
Child Development and Enabling Children to Learn
Focuses on understanding child development theories and applying them to support learning.
Physical Activity and Nutrition Coordination (PANCo) in Early Years
Emphasizes promoting healthy lifestyles through physical activity and nutrition in early childhood settings.
Supporting Children with Additional Needs
Covers strategies to support children with diverse and additional needs effectively.
Partnership Working in Early Years Settings
Highlights the importance of collaboration with families and professionals to enhance child development.
Implementing and Evaluating Change Through a Research Project
Provides skills to conduct research and implement improvements in early years practice.
Legal Requirements in Childcare
Introduces the legal frameworks and policies governing early years education and care.
🎯 Optional Units (Choose at least 6 Credits)
Assessing and Planning for Children’s Changing Developmental Needs
Focuses on observing and planning to meet the evolving developmental needs of children.
Caring for Babies
Provides knowledge and skills for effectively caring for infants in early years settings.
Caring for Children Through Play Out of School
Explores the role of play in supporting children's development outside formal educational settings.
To achieve the diploma, learners must complete all six mandatory units (34 credits) and select optional units totaling a minimum of 6 credits, culminating in at least 40 credits. Additionally, a minimum of 30 hours of teaching practice is required.
Key Outcomes
Key Benefits
Become an Advanced Practitioner — ideal for progressing into lead or managerial roles
Build a portfolio of assessed teaching practice (minimum 30 hours required)
Flexible & tutor-supported study — designed to fit around your job
Recognised by employers & education providers across the UK and internationally
Duration and Delivery
This qualification is designed to be flexible and accessible to a diverse range of learners. It can typically be completed over one academic year, depending on the mode of study (full-time or part-time) and the learner's pace.
Delivery methods may include:
- Instructor-led classroom sessions
- Online learning modules
- Self-directed study
- Group projects and collaborative tasks
- Practical IT labs and case studies
Assessment and Verification
Assessed through written assignments and practical teaching evidence
Includes mandatory observed teaching practice (30 hours)
Internal and external quality assurance by QUALIFI
No final exam — focus is on practical application and portfolio building
Career & Progression Opportunities
After completing this diploma, learners can:
Progress to the Level 5 Diploma in Early Learning and Childcare
Move into roles such as Lead Practitioner, Nursery Room Leader, or Early Years Trainer
Use this as a stepping stone towards further teaching or education degrees