This course will allow learners to develop the core specialist knowledge, understanding and skills required by the sector, including child development, theorists, play and learning, health and safety, safeguarding, observation, assessment and planning. This course provides a basis for progression when supported by relevant qualifications at Level 2 such as GCSE English and Mathematics, or at Level 3 such as A-levels in Psychology, Biology or English Language. It will provide learners with the opportunity to study a range of optional areas of their choice in more depth. This course is a respected route for those who wish to move into employment in the sector following further study as the qualification was designed in close collaboration with industry. These qualifications give learners a solid understanding of key areas of children’s play, learning and development judged essential by the sector, as identified in the Early Years Educator (Level 3).