Diploma in Childcare & Early Years Development

Diploma in Childcare & Early Years Development is a CPD-accredited online course tailored for individuals who aspire to work in early years education or improve their knowledge of childcare practices. Designed to meet the needs of today's childcare and education sectors, this course provides a detailed understanding of the physical, emotional, social, and intellectual development of children from birth to age eight.

With a rising demand for early years professionals across the UK, particularly following recent expansions in government-funded childcare for working families, this childcare diploma supports learners in gaining essential knowledge and skills to begin or advance a career in this rewarding field.

The course covers a wide range of topics, from child development and safeguarding to nutrition, creativity, and inclusion. It is delivered entirely online through a structured and engaging format, enabling learners to study at their own pace. Upon completion, learners will receive a CPD-accredited certificate, which is recognised by employers and institutions throughout the UK and internationally. This makes the childcare diploma an ideal option for anyone looking to enhance their employability and professional profile in early years education and childcare.

Learning Outcomes

By the end of this childcare diploma course, you will be able to:

• Understand key stages in a child's development from birth to early childhood
• Apply best practices in caring for children in various early years settings
• Promote health, hygiene, and emotional wellbeing in children
• Recognise and respond to child protection and safeguarding concerns
• Provide a safe, stimulating, and inclusive environment for children
• Support children’s creativity, play, and imaginative learning
• Understand how to work effectively with children with special educational needs (SEN)
• Demonstrate awareness of early years frameworks, provision types, and professional roles

Topics Covered in This Course

• Module 1: Understanding Child Development
• Module 2: Caring for Children
• Module 3: Healthy Food, Healthy Living
• Module 4: Keeping Children Healthy & Safe
• Module 5: Child Protection
• Module 6: Play, Imagination and Creativity
• Module 7: Early Years Provision
• Module 8: Children with Special Needs

Why Should You Enrol in This Course?

The childcare and early years education sector in the UK has seen steady growth in recent years. According to Ofsted and the Department for Education (DfE), over 1.5 million children in England are enrolled in early years education, supported by a workforce of more than 360,000 childcare professionals. As the government continues to expand funded childcare places, the demand for qualified staff is increasing.

This CPD-accredited childcare diploma has been developed to help meet that demand. It offers flexible and accessible training for learners seeking to enter the sector or expand their professional knowledge. Whether you are looking to begin a new career in childcare, fulfil continuing professional development (CPD) requirements, or enhance your skills as a parent or caregiver, this course delivers a comprehensive and practical learning experience.

The course is self-paced and online, making it suitable for those with existing work or personal commitments. Learners will gain confidence in their ability to care for and support children in line with national early years standards, making this childcare diploma a valuable addition to any CV.

Key Features of the Course

• CPD-accredited qualification recognised in the UK and internationally
• Developed by experts in childcare and early years education
• Aligned with key early years learning and safeguarding frameworks
• 12 months of access to the course and all supporting resources
• Interactive, pre-recorded lessons designed for flexible study
• Study materials accessible across devices – computer, tablet, or phone
• Practical guidance and knowledge applicable to real-world childcare settings
• Responsive support team available by phone, email, or chat (Monday to Friday)

Who Is This Course For?

This course is designed for:

• Individuals beginning a career in childcare or early years education
• Existing childcare professionals seeking to refresh or update their skills
• Teaching assistants and school support staff
• Parents, guardians, or foster carers
• Nannies, babysitters, or au pairs
• Anyone wishing to understand more about child development and early learning

The course is suitable for both beginners and those with some existing experience in childcare.

Certificate

Upon successful completion of the Diploma in Childcare & Early Years Development, learners will receive a CPD-accredited certificate, demonstrating their achievement and commitment to professional development.

You will have the option to order:

• PDF Certificate: £8.99
• Hard Copy Certificate: £12.99
• Both PDF and Hard Copy: £19.99

This certificate can be used to support job applications, professional development records, or career progression in childcare, education, or related fields.

Requirements

There are no formal academic entry requirements for this childcare diploma. However, learners must have:

• A strong interest in working with or caring for children
• A good command of the English language
• Basic numeracy and IT skills
• Be aged 16 or over

The course is open to individuals from all backgrounds who are eager to learn and pursue opportunities in early years education and care.

Career Path

This CPD-accredited childcare diploma is suitable for a wide range of professional roles within early years settings and related fields. Completion of this course may support progression to roles such as:

• Nursery Assistant
• Early Years Practitioner
• Childminder
• Teaching Assistant
• Nanny or Au Pair
• SEN Support Worker
• Playworker
• Parent Educator
• Foster Carer

It also provides a strong foundation for further training or study in childcare, primary education, child psychology, or social care.

Disclaimer

This is an online, self-paced course with pre-recorded lessons and interactive materials. You will receive your login details within 24–48 hours of enrolment (usually much faster). There are no set deadlines for completion, allowing you to study flexibly and at your own pace.