Applicants should have 2 or more years of experience within the sector, whether employed or on a voluntary basis and hold one of the following:
- A Foundation Degree in Early Childhood Studies or a Higher National Diploma in relevant area such as Education or Early Years equating to 240 credits
- Level 5 Apprenticeship Lead Practitioner in Early Years
- In addition, students must also be either currently working or volunteering in an appropriate sector.
Those students who are proposing to advance to Teacher Training (upon completion of Level 6) will be advised of the requirement to gain Level 4/C in English, Mathematics and Science, though this is not an entry requirement to the programme.
Students who may not fulfil the entry requirements in relation to credits (120 at level 4 and 120 at level 5), may be able to apply through recognition of prior learning and/ or experience, through our RPEL system.
All students will be required to hold an enhanced DBS.* Any applicant with criminal convictions will be considered by the DNCG Safeguarding team to establish their suitability to engage in the programme. Early disclosure is therefore highly recommended and encouraged through the rigorous application process.
*Or suitable alternative
In line with the widening participation (WP) and lifelong learning strategy, we also welcome applications from people of any age who might not meet the standard entry criteria, but we would expect to see evidence of continuing academic and/or professional development and a capacity to pursue the course successfully. It is important to state that any WP applicants will receive advice and guidance regarding employment opportunities as this programme will not provide them with a licence to practise in an early years setting. We are here to help. Please get in touch to find out more.