PEARSON BTEC LEVEL 5 HIGHER NATIONAL DIPLOMA IN EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATION AND CARE
Course Details
Awarding Body
Pearson BTEC
Duration
24 Months (Weekend Sessions)
Entry Requirements
Two passes in the G.C.E. Advanced Level examination and a Credit (C) pass in English at the G.C.E. Ordinary Level examinationOR
A Credit (C) pass in English at the G.C.E. Ordinary Level examination along with a recognized Diploma qualification
OR
Completion of the Pearson BTEC International Level 3 Foundation Diploma
In addition, all applicants must meet the Pearson English language proficiency requirements.
Pearson accepts a range of English competency qualifications, including IELTS (minimum overall score of 5.5), or equivalent qualifications as listed in the relevant Pearson Higher National specifications.
Mandatory Work Placement Requirements
For the Pearson BTEC Level 5 Higher National Diploma in Early Childhood Education and Care, students are required to complete a minimum of 525 cumulative hours of work placement in early education and/or care settings over the two-year duration of the qualification.
Placement Structure:
- Level 4 (Year 1): Students must complete a minimum of 375 hours of placement.
-
These hours must include at least 75 hours of practice in each of the following age ranges:
- Birth to 1 year, 11 months
- 2 years to 4 years, 11 months
- 5 years to 7 years, 11 months
- The remaining hours may be distributed across the above age groups and settings to reach the total of 375 hours.
- Experience must be gained in a minimum of two different early years settings.
-
These hours must include at least 75 hours of practice in each of the following age ranges:
- Level 5 (Year 2): Students must complete an additional 150 hours of placement.
- These hours may be undertaken in one setting and with any of the above age groups, depending on the student’s chosen area of focus and availability of placement opportunities.
Note: Completion of the full 375 placement hours at Level 4 is essential. Students who complete only Level 4 units and the full placement requirement may be eligible for the Pearson BTEC Level 4 Higher National Certificate (HNC). Students progressing to Level 5 must complete both any carried-over hours (if applicable) and the additional 150 hours required at Level 5.
Subject Outline
Semester 1
- Personal and Professional Development through Reflective Practice
- Protecting Children in Early Education and Care Environments
- Play and Learning in Early Childhood
- Supporting and Promoting Children’s Development (Babies and Toddlers)
Semester 2
- Supporting and Promoting Children’s Development (Young Children)
- Promoting Healthy Living
- Preparing for Research (Pearson-set Project)
- Promoting Inclusive Early Education and Care Environments
Semester 3
- Investigating Childhood: Action Research for Early Childhood Practitioners (Pearson-set project)
- Improving Quality in Early Education and Care Environments
- Child-centered Practice with Children, Families and Communities
Semester 4
- Managing Children’s Early Education and Care Environments
- Innovative Approaches to Children’s Play and Learning in Practice
- Working in Partnership across Health, Education and Social Care Services
Program Objectives
The Higher National Diploma in Early Childhood Education and Care is a two-year program designed to equip students with both theoretical knowledge and practical skills essential for effective early childhood education. Emphasizing a child-centered approach, the program covers key areas such as pedagogical theories, curriculum development, behavior management, and educational psychology. It also highlights the importance of inclusive education, family engagement, and the integration of technology in early learning environments. Through practical teaching experiences, students are prepared to create nurturing and stimulating settings that support the holistic development of young children. Graduates will be well-positioned to make meaningful contributions to the field of early childhood education.Progression Opportunities
Completing the Pearson BTEC Higher National Diploma (HND) in Early Childhood Education and Care opens up exciting academic and career pathways for students.Academic Progression
Graduates are eligible for direct entry into the 3rd year of a relevant Bachelor’s degree, such as:- BA (Hons) in Early Childhood Education and Care
- Bachelor of Early Childhood Education
Career Opportunities
With hands-on experience and specialized knowledge, HND graduates can confidently step into roles such as:- Childcare Center Director
- Preschool Teacher
- Child Development Specialist
- Educational Consultant
- Parent Educator
- Special Education Teacher (Early Childhood)
- Educational Program Coordinator
- Family Support Worker
- Educational Researcher
- Early Childhood Lecturer
Recognition
• Recognized by The Office of Qualifications and Examinations Regulation (OFQUAL) in England.
• Recognized by many worldwide universities listed in the BTEC Pearson website.
• Recognized by many worldwide universities listed in the BTEC Pearson website.
