Previous
Next

Education and Early Years

STUDYING EDUCATION AND EARLY YEARS AT WESTON COLLEGE

For those looking to make a difference to the lives of children and young people, we offer education and early years courses, to help people secure their first posts, or take the next step in their career journeys.

As a long-established education provider in this sector, with fantastic new facilities, we are well placed to draw on our links with employers, and the strength of our teaching team, to keep our courses in this area highly relevant and evidence-based.

We also give students access to placements, guest speakers and regular practice-based opportunities, so that they leave us extremely well placed to progress in their careers.

Since the demand for trained childcare workers is increasing, the choice of career paths and the volume of job opportunities available are plentiful ...

 

Scroll down to view our courses
or select a section to jump to:

 

We've bundled the best education in the area with career boosted benefits - and are leveraging our contacts as one of the largest Colleges in the country to give you the best possible chance of success.

OUR PARTNERS INCLUDE:

Busy buddies at puxton park logo
the nursery logo
Mendip Green School
Little Bears day nursery logo
Christ Church CE VA primary school logo

FIND OUT MORE HERE >>

  • Show me:
  • All
  • In College
  • Apprenticeships
  • T-Levels
Level 1

Childcare, Pre-technical Certificate

1 Year
Sep 2026
KNIGHTSTONE CAMPUS
Click Here

At our Knightstone Campus, the education and early years department boasts outstanding, sector-specific facilities, including a fully equipped community room, bright modern classrooms, two industry-style training rooms, and a unique bubble room designed for hands-on messy play activities. With strong employer partnerships, highly experienced ...

Click Here
Level 2

Early Years Practitioner, Apprenticeship

13 Months
Aug 2026
KNIGHTSTONE CAMPUS
Click Here

If you have a passion for nurturing children's development, fostering their curiosity, and providing a supportive environment for their early educational journey, then an Early Years Practitioner Apprenticeship is the perfect opportunity to embark on a fulfilling career. Course Overview The role of an early years practitioner is both rewardin...

Click Here
Level 2

Early Years Vocational, Technical Diploma (with license to practice)

1 Year
Sep 2026
KNIGHTSTONE CAMPUS
Click Here

At our Knightstone Campus, the education and early years department boasts outstanding, sector-specific facilities, including a fully equipped community room, bright modern classrooms, two industry-style training rooms, and a unique bubble room designed for hands-on messy play activities. With strong employer partnerships, highly experienced ...

Click Here
Level 3

Access to HE Diploma (Education, Youth Work and Child Development)

1 Year
Sep 2026
KNIGHTSTONE CAMPUS
Click Here

This exciting new course is designed for people aged 17–18 who are passionate about working with children and young people. It is perfect for anyone aiming to start a career in teaching, child development, childcare, social work, or the criminal justice system. What will I study? The modules in this course typically include: Psychology Hea...

Click Here
Level 3

Assisting Teaching, T Level

2 Years
Sep 2026
KNIGHTSTONE CAMPUS
Click Here

Designed in collaboration with employers to meet the demands of a rapidly evolving sector, this T Level provides a unique opportunity to gain hands-on experience in diverse educational settings, preparing you for a rewarding career working with children. What will I study? The Assisting Teaching T Level is a comprehensive and industry-focused ...

Click Here
Level 3

Early Years Educator, Apprenticeship

18 Months
Aug 2026
KNIGHTSTONE CAMPUS
Click Here

If you aspire to work with children, this apprenticeship offers an invaluable opportunity to turn your passion into a fulfilling career. Throughout this apprenticeship, you will acquire the knowledge, skills, and practical experience needed to become a skilled and compassionate early years educator. What will I study? From fostering a safe an...

Click Here
Level 3

Early Years Educator, T Level

2 Years
Sep 2026
KNIGHTSTONE CAMPUS
Click Here

At our Knightstone Campus, the education and early years department boasts outstanding, sector-specific facilities, including a fully equipped community room, bright modern classrooms, two industry-style training rooms, and a unique bubble room designed for hands-on messy play activities. With strong employer partnerships, highly experienced ...

Click Here
Level 3

Teaching Assistant, Apprenticeship

18 Months
Aug 2026
KNIGHTSTONE CAMPUS
Click Here

This apprenticeship will help you develop the skills you’ll need to assist and support teachers and children in the classroom, including supporting children with special educational needs and emotional vulnerabilities. You’ll be expected to act as a role model to the children, take an active part in lesson planning, and act with kindness a...

Click Here

No courses to show for this type

ucw logo
You can progress onto degrees and higher apprenticeships with UCW...
CLICK HERE TO SEE MORE

OUR EARLY YEARS VIDEOS

Courses after College

Your journey to University Centre Weston starts here...

Want to take a look around?

Taken straight from our virtual open evenings, take a guided tour of our Early Years facilities!

Meet the Early Years and Education Employers

Meet our team

Avatar Karen Morgan Subject Area Manager
"Quote"
Avatar Vanessa Parslow Lecturer in Early Years
"Quote"
Avatar Charlotte Howe Lecturer in Early Years Read More
Avatar Ashleigh Sweeney Lecturer in Early YearsRead More

NEW EDUCATION AND EARLY YEARS FACILITIES

×

1 / 6
2 / 6
3 / 6
4 / 6
5 / 6
6 / 6

 

Occupations related to Education and Early Years

Show All

WHAT OUR STUDENTS SAY

Liberty doing some arts and crafts
Liberty
Liberty consistently achieved distinctions and, put 100% effort into everything that was thrown at her. Her ability to attend volunteering sessions and still achieve high level grades showed her commitment to the course and developing her skill set. Liberty won Early Years and Education Student of the Year at Celebration of Success 2023.
Studied:

Level 3 Childcare

Rikki at awards
Rikki
My biggest challenge was my confidence or lack of it. I didn’t believe in myself and my abilities. I felt fully supported in what I was doing whilst at college, without that support I am not sure I would have achieved anything
Studied:

Supporting Teaching and Learning, Level 3

LATEST NEWS

Student sat at a computer smiling

<p data-pm-slice="1 1 []">Level 1 courses are a great way to build a foundation of knowledge around a subject, introducing you at a more flexible and slower pace whilst building your skills and preparing you to progress onto Level 2.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>There are many benefits to a Level 1 course. They create a foundation of knowledge for learners, building a solid base of information and skills which make them ideal for beginners. Not only this, they also build confidence in unfamiliar areas and act as a stepping stone to more advanced qualifications. They are also more accessible and flexible to a wider range of students.&nbsp;</p><p>Our Level 1 courses vary in entry requirements, with most courses requiring 5 GCSEs grade 3-1 with at least two grade 3 results. On some courses, it is also required to gain at least a grade 2 in GCSE Maths and English. This makes our Level 1 courses accessible to give you the knowledge and skills to succeed and progress to the Level 2 courses.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p data-pm-slice="1 1 []">With this level of qualification, you could move onto a Level 2 study programme or an apprenticeship at Level 2, this includes technical qualifications such as diplomas, certificates and NVQs at level 2, transitioning to T Level Programme, or intermediate apprenticeships.</p><p>At Weston College, we have many Level 1 courses available, including <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/anima… Management</u></a>, <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/art-d… and Design</u></a>, <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/compu…;, <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/const…;, <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/educa… Years</u></a>, <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/hair-…;, <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/healt… and Social Care</u></a>, <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/hospi… and Catering</u></a>, <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/perfo… and Production</u></a>, <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/prote… Services</u></a>, and <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/sport… you are unsure of what course level is best for you, check out our <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/which-level-right-me"><u>Leve… Explained</u></a> page to gain a more in-depth understanding.&nbsp;</p><p>If you are still unsure, email <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="mailto:enquiries@weston.ac.uk"><u>enquiries@weston.ac.uk</u></a&gt; or visit one of our campuses and speak to the team for help.</p>

level 1 early years students at ashcombe children's centre

<p data-pm-slice="1 1 []">In the past few weeks, our Level 1 Education and Early Years students have successfully and independently planned and delivered a free Stay-and-Play event at Ashcombe Children’s Centre - an exciting milestone in their Sentipensante project.&nbsp;</p><p>Held on Wednesday 18th June, the event welcomed families and carers with children aged 0–5 to participate in two sessions, from 10–11:30am and 1–2:30pm. The project’s goal was to create a community-based experience that allowed learners to bring the curriculum to life, especially through English and Maths skills, while offering a welcoming, play-based environment for young children and their families.&nbsp;</p><img src="/sites/default/files/inline-images/508828576_1145361490729484_9025247533046932445_n.jpg" data-align="center" data-entity-uuid="1e7724c0-c09a-431d-ad08-1d6012487e98" data-entity-type="file" alt="early years students smiling in picture at ashcombe children&apos;s centre" width="1017" height="468"><p>“This was a brilliant opportunity for learners to put their skills into action and gain real experience working with children and families,” said Lucy Drew, Head of Education and Early Years. “The event sold out just hours after tickets went live, showing just how much the local community values these kinds of activities.”&nbsp;</p><p>Students took full ownership of the project from start to finish. They designed and published posters and social media posts, carefully choosing language, layout, and colour schemes to attract attention. Using their maths knowledge, they worked within a budget to buy refreshments, toys, and materials for activities. They also developed a registration process, applying critical thinking to collect attendee information while managing capacity limits.&nbsp;</p><img src="/sites/default/files/inline-images/508742426_1145361517396148_2721752895109836566_n.jpg" data-align="center" data-entity-uuid="a31a4b6b-2cdf-400e-a530-56096e47a3c7" data-entity-type="file" alt="box with bubbles" width="1440" height="1088"><p>The learners divided into two groups to host both morning and afternoon sessions. Each session provided opportunities for children to play and learn alongside their parents or carers, with activities designed to encourage early development in a fun, supportive setting.&nbsp;</p><p>The Stay and Play event not only demonstrated the learners’ dedication and growth but also showed strong collaboration across departments, with English and Maths staff helping to embed core skills throughout the planning process. It also deepened the college’s partnership with Ashcombe Children’s Centre, setting the stage for hopeful future joint projects.&nbsp;</p><p><a href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/educa… to become a part of our Early Years and Education stay and play projects, as well as learn about the dynamic early years sector? Browse our courses here.</a></p><p data-pm-slice="1 1 []"><strong>If you are passionate about education and are looking for an opportunity to join the staff team at a leading college, then look at the latest job vacancies available at Weston College here. You can find all the latest job opportunities that Weston College has to offer, with a commitment to providing quality education for learners and a focus on continuous professional development for staff, Weston College is an excellent place to work and grow in your career.</strong>&nbsp;</p>

female early years student smiling while holding a puppet

<p data-pm-slice="1 1 []">Weston College is working with Ashcombe Children's Centre to create a Stay and Play for the community, where <strong>everything is completely FREE!</strong></p><p>This exciting event will take place on <strong>Wednesday 18th June at Ashcombe Children's Centre</strong> with two sessions available:&nbsp;</p><p>Morning session: 9am – 10:30am&nbsp;</p><p>Afternoon session: 1pm – 2:30pm&nbsp;</p><p>Our stay and play allows for <strong>parents and carers to stay and play alongside their children</strong> in a relaxed and welcoming environment. Enjoy a morning of hands-on activities, creative play, and community interaction, all designed to support early development and learning.</p><p>Our Early Years and Education students will be there too - leading activities, playing with children, and helping set up a fun-filled space for you and your little ones.</p><p>There will be a wide range of fun and stimulating activities designed to support children’s learning and development. These include:&nbsp;</p><ul><li class="ProsemirrorEditor-listItem" style="margin-left:32px;" data-list-indent="1" data-list-type="bulleted">Messy play with sand, water, and mud&nbsp;</li><li class="ProsemirrorEditor-listItem" style="margin-left:32px;" data-list-indent="1" data-list-type="bulleted">A painting station where children can explore colours and their senses&nbsp;</li><li class="ProsemirrorEditor-listItem" style="margin-left:32px;" data-list-indent="1" data-list-type="bulleted">A quiet sensory area for those who prefer a calmer space&nbsp;</li><li class="ProsemirrorEditor-listItem" style="margin-left:32px;" data-list-indent="1" data-list-type="bulleted">A circle time mat where an adult will read stories and use counting blocks to help prepare children for school &nbsp;</li></ul><p>All activities have been designed to support your child’s fine motor skills, gross motor skills, and overall early development, while encouraging creativity, confidence, and social interaction.&nbsp;</p><p>To keep everyone refreshed, <strong data-start="1226" data-end="1254">free drinks and biscuits</strong> will be available during both sessions.</p><p>A select group of Weston College’s Early Years and Education students have planned this event themselves as part of their course, using their knowledge and creativity to design a fun and inclusive experience for local families.&nbsp;</p><p>Spaces are limited, so if you’re interested in attending, please make sure to secure your slot in advance. &nbsp;</p><p><a href="https://forms.office.com/Pages/ResponsePage.aspx?id=FgfhBifCK0qqQ-seKHr… book a place, click here.&nbsp;</a></p><p>Everyone is welcome – we can’t wait to see you there!&nbsp;</p><p>If you have any questions prior to the event, don't hesitate to contact Lucy on <a href="mailto: lucy.drew@weston.ac.uk">lucy.drew@weston.ac.uk</a></p><p><strong>If you are passionate about education and are looking for an opportunity to join the staff team at a leading college, then look at the latest job vacancies available at Weston College here. You can find all the latest job opportunities that Weston College has to offer, with a commitment to providing quality education for learners and a focus on continuous professional development for staff, Weston College is an excellent place to work and grow in your career.</strong>&nbsp;</p>

Got a question?

Whatever you'd like to know, we're here to help...

Apply or find out more


Marketing Permissions

We’d love to keep you informed about vacancies, courses, and updates we think you’ll find valuable. You can unsubscribe or opt out at any time.
Your personal information will be handled in accordance with our Privacy Policy.

Please let us know how you’d like to hear from us:

Email

By submitting this form you are consenting to Weston College recording and processing the personal information on this form, for any purposes of the college associated with the provision of advice and guidance to potential students on the range of courses available to them, college facilities and any other associated information. In accordance with the Data Protection Act 2018, the information will only be used for the above mentioned purposes.

You will need to complete a full enrolment form prior to starting your course.

CAPTCHA
This question is for testing whether or not you are a human visitor and to prevent automated spam submissions.