Access to Higher Education Diploma (Early Years Education)

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This Access to Higher Education Diploma is a nationally recognised Level 3 qualification designed to help you progress to university and pursue a new future career.

Earn up to 144 UCAS tariff points and prepare for degree-level study through coursework-based assessment, without the need for traditional exams.

Course Options

£1,199.00

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Course duration

This course is typically completed within one year. You should plan to dedicate around 10 hours per week to independent study alongside your coursework.

An assessment schedule will be provided at the start of your course, clearly outlining when assignments are released and their submission deadlines to help you stay organised.

Course outcome

On successful completion, you will achieve an Access to Higher Education Diploma in Veterinary Science, a nationally recognised Level 3 qualification that supports progression to university study.

Entry requirements

Applicants must be aged 19 or over. You will usually need GCSE English Language and Maths at grade 4 (C) or above, although equivalent qualifications such as Functional Skills Level 2 in English and Maths may also be accepted.

If you are unsure whether you meet the requirements, our team will be happy to advise you.

Assessment

This course is assessed entirely through coursework, with no formal exams. You will complete a range of assignments, including written tasks, presentations and reports, designed to prepare you for degree-level study.

The Access to Higher Education Diploma in Early Years Education is a nationally recognised Level 3 qualification designed for adults who want to progress to university and pursue a career working with young children.

Whether you’re returning to education or looking to move into a rewarding role in childcare or teaching, this course provides a supportive and flexible pathway into higher education. You’ll develop an understanding of child development, learning and care, alongside the academic skills needed for degree-level study.

Delivered online, the course allows you to study around your lifestyle while preparing for progression to university courses such as early childhood studies, primary education and related fields.

This diploma combines knowledge of early years development with essential academic skills to prepare you for higher education and careers in education and childcare.

You will complete a total of 60 credits, including graded subject units and ungraded study skills modules.

Core study skills modules

  • Preparing for higher education
  • Academic writing and research skills
  • Communication and professional practice
  • Critical thinking and reflective learning

Early years education units

  • Child development from birth to early childhood
  • Play and learning in early years settings
  • Safeguarding and child protection
  • Supporting children’s health and wellbeing
  • Inclusive practice and equality
  • The role of the early years practitioner

You’ll explore how children grow, learn and develop, and how early years professionals support their wellbeing, education and social development.

Flexible units to support your progression

Units can be adapted to align with your chosen university degree and its specific entry requirements. If you have a particular course or creative pathway in mind, our team can help tailor your studies to support your progression.

On successful completion, you will achieve an Access to Higher Education Diploma (Early Years Education), a Level 3 qualification awarded by AIM Qualifications and Assessment Group.

This qualification is regulated by the Quality Assurance Agency for Higher Education (QAA) and is widely accepted by universities across the UK.

Flexible online learning

Study from anywhere in the UK with full access to your learning materials online. The course is designed to fit around your lifestyle, allowing you to balance study with work, family and other commitments.

This course supports progression to a range of university degrees and career pathways, including:

  • Early Childhood Studies
  • Primary Education
  • Education Studies
  • Child and Family Studies
  • Special Educational Needs (SEN)

It can lead to careers in childcare, education support roles, nursery settings, family services and, with further study, teaching.

You’ll receive ongoing support from experienced tutors, including one-to-one sessions, personalised feedback and guidance throughout your course to help you build confidence and succeed.

There are no formal exams. Instead, you will be assessed through coursework such as essays, reports, case studies and presentations, helping you develop the skills needed for university-level study.

Do I need previous experience working with children?

No prior experience is required. The course is designed to introduce key concepts and build your understanding step by step.

Yes, this course can support progression to university degrees in education, which can then lead to teacher training with further study.

You can apply to a wide range of university degrees related to education, childcare and child development.

Assessment is based entirely on coursework, with a range of written and research-based assignments.

Most learners complete the course within 9–12 months, depending on their pace of study and availability.