Overview
The Level 5 Diploma in Early Childhood Education develops understanding of early childhood development theories, developmental patterns and the influence of context on children’s progress. It considers foundational theories alongside contemporary approaches to early childhood education.
For learners comparing different early childhood education courses, this Level 5 qualification provides a structured route for developing deeper knowledge of child development, pedagogy and early years practice.
The programme is suitable for those looking for an early childhood education course that covers inclusion, safeguarding, literacy, child behaviour and support for individual learning needs.
Level 5 Diploma in Early Childhood Education are assessed in academic terms as being equivalent to Higher National Diplomas (HND) and Year 2 of a three-year UK Bachelor's degree programme.
For learners exploring more advanced early childhood courses, the qualification provides a Level 5 pathway that can support further academic and professional development.
Benefits of Doing the Level 5 Diploma in Early Childhood Education Online
Studying Level 5 Diploma in Early Childhood Education online offers learners a flexible, accessible, and career-focused route to advancing their skills within the sector. Key benefits include:
Choosing from early childhood and education courses delivered online can give learners greater flexibility while developing knowledge relevant to early years learning and development.
- Flexible Learning
- Learners can study at their own pace and schedule, making it easier to balance education with work, family responsibilities, or other commitments.
- The flexible format can suit learners comparing an early childhood course with other study options and looking for a programme that fits around existing commitments.
- Cost-Effective
- Online learning removes the need for travel, accommodation, and other campus-related expenses, making education more affordable.
- For learners considering early childhood care and education online courses, remote study can also reduce some of the additional costs associated with regular travel and campus attendance.
- Access to Quality Resources
- Students gain access to interactive digital learning materials, recorded lectures, case studies, and dedicated tutor support through an online learning portal.
- These resources provide structured support throughout the early childhood education course, helping learners develop knowledge across pedagogy, safeguarding, inclusion and literacy.
- Career Advancement Opportunities
- The qualification develops essential leadership and management skills, supporting progression into a university.
- The qualification can also support learners who want to continue towards higher-level early learning education courses or related study in childhood, education and development.
Course Delivery
The qualification is delivered fully online through:
- The online format provides a flexible option for learners comparing early childhood care and education courses and looking for remote access to study materials and academic support.
- Virtual Learning Platform: Access to study materials and resources 24/7.
- Tutor Support: Regular guidance via email, online forums,
- Independent Study: Learners study at their own pace with structured guidance.
- Obtain assignment: marking and feedback.
- Online Assessments: Assignments, projects, and portfolios submitted on LSM.
- Acquire: Assignment briefing, study lesson plan
- Receive excellent-quality study notes.
- Receive dedicated customer support via chat, telephone, and email (Monday to Friday)
- For learners interested in an early childhood education and care course, this delivery model provides a structured way to develop knowledge of early years practice while studying remotely.
Course Quick Summary (Ofqual Regulated UK Qualification)
- Study Mode: 100% Online, Self-paced
- Accreditation: OTHM Qualifications
- Duration: 8-10 Months
- Assessment: Assignment-based (No Exams)
- Requirements: Open access / Career experience
- Tutor Support: Unlimited academic tutor guidance
Modules
Level 5 Diploma in Early Childhood Education consists of 6 mandatory units making a total of 120 credits
Unit 1 Exploring Early Years Pedagogy and Best Practices 20 Credits
- Understand the role of the pedagogue in supporting children’s learning and development.
- Understand how to involve the family and the home learning environment.
- Understand the concepts of making creativity part of the curriculum.
Unit 2 Understanding Child Behaviour: Theoretical Perspectives and Insights 20 Credits
- Understand theoretical perspectives of behaviour.
- Understand the social learning theory of child development.
- Understand Vygotsky’s Sociocultural Theory.
Unit 3 Inclusion and Diversity: Supporting Children with Special Needs and Disabilities in Early Education 20 Credits
- Understand a wide range of special educational needs and disabilities.
- Understand the principles of working inclusively with disabled children with specific requirements.
- Understand how to work in partnership with parents and/or carers with disabled children with specific requirements.
Unit 4 Safeguarding: Child Protection and Keeping Children Safe 20 Credits
- Understand current legislative frameworks and regulatory guidance.
- Understand how to respond to allegations that a child has been abused or harmed.
- Understand ways in which early years professionals can effectively contribute to safeguarding and keeping children safe.
Unit 5 Emerging Literacies in the Early Years and Digital Resources 20 Credits
- Understand what emergent literacy is.
- Understand the role of the adult in preparing children for reading.
- Understand how to support children in making connections through early mark-making and writing development.
Unit 6 Understanding Transitions in Early Childhood 20 Credits
- Understand what ‘transition’ means.
- Understand how transitions can be supported in the first 3 years of life.
- Understand strategies to support transitions.
Entry Requirements
- Learners who are typically aged 18 and above.
- Relevant Level 3 or 4 Diploma qualification or equivalent qualification.
Qualifications
OTHM's objective is the creation and conferral of high-quality certifications that combine strict educational requirements and professional relevance. OTHM is acknowledged as an Awarding Organisation by Ofqual, the qualifications regulator for England, guaranteeing that all its programmes adhere to high regulatory standards. OTHM aligns with worldwide quality frameworks, allowing global recognition of its certifications while ensuring consistency, integrity, and excellence in its awarding processes.
For learners comparing recognised early childhood education courses, this Level 5 qualification provides a structured academic route for developing advanced knowledge of early learning, inclusion, safeguarding and child development.
Assessment Requirements
- Assessment is via assignment submission only.
- No Exams
Average completion timeframe (Course Duration)
- The average time it takes our learners to complete thiscourseis 8-10 Months
- Learners are granted a maximum of two years’ access to complete the course from the date of enrolment.
Certificate & Transcript Information
Upon successful completion of the qualification, the learner will receive an electronic certificate and transcript according to the awarding body’s certificate policy.
Hard Copy Delivery Charges:
Ordering a hard copy certificate and transcript is optional. If the learner requires a hard copy certificate and transcript, the applicable hard copy and delivery charges must be paid separately. For certificate-related support, please contact info@directskills.co.uk.
Progression – OTHM Level 5 Diploma in Early Childhood Education
1. Higher Education
Learners completing the Level 5 Diploma in Early Childhood Education may consider further study such as:
- Bachelor’s degree programmes in Early Childhood Education
- Bachelor’s degree programmes in Early Childhood Studies
- Relevant degree programmes in education or child development
- Relevant Level 6 qualifications in education or related subjects
- Professional development qualifications in early years education, inclusion or safeguarding
2. Employment Opportunities
Successful completion of the Level 5 Diploma in Early Childhood Education develops knowledge of early years pedagogy, child behaviour, inclusion, safeguarding, literacy and transitions. This may support applications or professional development towards roles such as:
- Early Years Education Support Worker
- Nursery Assistant
- Preschool Assistant
- Early Years Teaching Assistant
- Learning Support Assistant
- Early Years Inclusion Support Assistant
- Childcare Support Worker
- Family Support Assistant
| Plan Name | Regular Fee | Discounted Fee | % Discount | Deposit | Instalments | Fast Track |
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Single Payment
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£950 | £849.99 | 10% | — |
£849.99
1 months
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3 Months Plan
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£950 | £879.99 | 7% | £293 |
£293.50
2 months
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6 Months Plan
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£950 | £909.99 | 4% | £125 |
£157.00
5 months
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9 Months Plan
RECOMMENDED
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£950 | £939.99 | 1% | £99 |
£105.12
8 months
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