This course is suitable for students aged 19 and over.

As a practitioner employed within the early years workforce, this level 4 qualification aims to provide you with professional development opportunities.

It will embrace the wealth of experience that you have already gained on the level 3 qualification, and challenge you in both your daily practice and theoretical understanding.

When will I start the course and how long will it take?

This course has flexible start dates throughout the year and will take one year to complete.

The course is mainly assessed in the workplace and you will be assigned a tutor/assessor at the beginning of the course, who will work with you throughout the programme.

There is no full class room activity, the candidate will arrange to meet the assessor in College or at their place of work.

More information can be provided upon application.

What will I study?

The content covers the age range from 0-5 years and includes the following areas:

  • Enabling children to learn
  • Promoting health and wellbeing
  • Working with others to support children with additional needs
  • Working with families and other professionals
  • Implementing change in an early years setting

You will develop and use skills of leadership, mentoring, coaching and reflection as you complete the qualification through work-based learning opportunities.

How is it assessed?

You will produce a portfolio of evidence arranged to reflect application of theoretical knowledge in practice with clear expectations of engagement with statutory frameworks.

Other assessment methods include projects, observations, assignments and displays.

Do I need any previous qualifications to start this course?

This is a work-based qualification. You must be employed in an early years setting at level 3 to complete this qualification.

What are the course fees?

The total cost of this course is £811.

If you are aged 19 or over, you could also apply for an Advanced Learner Loan to cover your course fees enabling you to study now, pay later. Loan eligibility isn’t dependent on income or employment status and there is no credit check. Loan repayments don’t start until you have finished your course and earn over £25,000 per year. For more information, please visit our dedicated Advanced Learner Loan page.

What can I go on to do once I have completed this course?

This course offers you the opportunity to progress on to the level 5 qualification such as the Diploma in Leadership for Health and Social Care and Children and Young People’s Services.

You will also be equipped to progress on to study at a higher level, such as the FdA Early Years Practice at University Centre St Helens.

Although this qualification will not be eligible for UCAS points, it could provide evidence for a personal statement to enable students to potentially enter higher education.

Are you ready to apply?

Simply fill in our online form here.

However, if you still have questions in relation to this course and wish to receive further information, please submit your enquiry here.


Please note, we have taken our utmost care to describe and show course information as accurately as possible. Knowsley Community College reserves the right to amend, remove and add courses in the future. This information cannot be considered contractual and advertised course fees are subject to change.

Ref: Tammy Halliday / Nic Johnson