Level 4 Diploma in Early Learning and Childcare

What is this qualification?

Looking to make a mark in the field of early learning and childcare? The Level 4 Diploma in Early Learning and Childcare provides a solid foundation for a successful career in child education and development. This comprehensive course offers in-depth training in child psychology, curriculum planning, and fostering a nurturing learning environment. With a focus on practical skills and industry relevance, you'll acquire the knowledge needed to excel as an early years practitioner, nursery assistant, or childminder. Kickstart your professional journey today and open doors to rewarding opportunities in the ever-growing childcare sector. Enrol now to gain the expertise and recognition you need to stand out in this competitive field.

Who is this qualification for?

The Level 4 Diploma in Early Learning and Childcare is a comprehensive qualification designed for individuals who are passionate about working with young children in the early years. This course provides an in-depth understanding of early childhood development, education, and care, and equips learners with the necessary skills to excel in this field. It is suitable for a variety of individuals, including:

1. Early Childhood Educators: If you are currently working as an early childhood educator or wish to pursue a career in this field, the Level 4 Diploma in Early Learning and Childcare is an ideal choice. It offers advanced knowledge and practical skills required to provide high-quality care and education to children aged 0-5 years.

2. Nursery Practitioners: This course is well-suited for nursery practitioners who work in nurseries, preschools, or childcare centres. It deepens your understanding of child development theories, curriculum planning, and effective teaching strategies, enabling you to create nurturing and stimulating environments for young children.

3. Childcare Centre Managers: If you hold a managerial position in a childcare centre or aspire to become one, this diploma can enhance your leadership and organisational skills. It covers topics such as staff management, safeguarding, regulatory requirements, and business operations, empowering you to effectively manage an early learning and childcare setting.

4. Childminders and Nannies: Individuals working as childminders or nannies can benefit from this course as it provides a solid foundation of knowledge in early childhood education. It equips you with skills to promote children's holistic development, establish positive relationships with families, and create engaging learning experiences in a home-based setting.

5. Career Changers: It provides you with the necessary skills, knowledge, and qualifications to enter the field of early childhood education and embark on a rewarding career.

This qualification is widely recognised and valued within the early years sector, enabling you to pursue various roles such as early childhood educator, nursery manager, childminder, or nanny.

Qualifi publishes its full target audience for this qualification on its own page.

Why choose this qualification

The "the qualification" is essential for aspiring childcare professionals looking to build a successful career in the industry. This diploma provides in-depth knowledge of child development, education, and safeguarding, meeting the regulatory requirements for working with young children. Accredited by reputable institutions, it holds high value in the job market, opening doors to various opportunities. Graduates gain practical experience through placements, enhancing their skills and employability. With flexible study options, including online learning, it caters to diverse learners' needs. Enrol in this diploma to become a qualified early childhood educator and make a positive impact on children's lives.

Qualification structure and units

Mandatory

Optional

Source: Qualifi qualification specification (PDF) · Ofqual qualification number 610/0227/6.

How you study

Standard study plan: 6 Months; extended plan: 9 Months.

At Education Training the qualification is delivered online: you receive the materials, assignment briefs and tutor support through the learning platform and submit work when you are ready. There are no fixed lecture times, so you can start in any month.

Where the qualification requires teaching or assessment practice, you complete the hours in your own workplace or on an agreed placement and log them in your portfolio.

How you are assessed

Units are assessed through written assignments and, where the qualification requires it, observed teaching or assessment practice. Work is marked by the centre and externally verified by Qualifi. There are no examinations.

Entry requirements

• This qualification is designed for learners who are employed in an early year setting who wish to upskill into an Advanced Practitioner role. Entry is at the discretion of the centre. However, learners should be aged 18 or above to undertake this qualification.
• Learners must already hold a full Level 3 early years/childcare qualification.
• They need to make sure that learners can fulfil the requirements of the learning outcomes and comply with the relevant literacy, numeracy and health and safety aspects of this qualification.
• Learners registered on this qualification should not undertake another qualification at the same Level with the same or a similar title, as duplication of learning may affect funding eligibility.

Qualifi publishes its full entry requirements for this qualification on its own page.

Fees and payment plans

A £10 enrolment fee is paid with the application. Fees include tuition, learning materials, assignment marking and the awarding-body certificate. Prices correct as of 23 October 2026.

Refund policy · Complaints procedure

What is included

Progression and career routes

A Qualifi Level 5 qualification; Qualifi Level 5 Diploma in Early Learning and Childcare; or into employment in an associated profession.

Related job profiles on the National Careers Service (pay, hours and entry routes are published there):

• Early years teacher
• Nursery worker

How this qualification compares

Figures below come from Education Training's own catalogue and enquiry records, not from estimates; each carries the date it was calculated.

Early Learning and Childcare progression ladder (Levels 4–5) (as of 23 October 2026)

Level 4: the qualification → Level 5: Level 5 Diploma in Early Learning and Childcare

Mandatory and optional units across Level 4 Early Learning and Childcare qualifications (as of 23 October 2026)

the qualification: 6 mandatory, 3 optional

Credits and study hours by RQF level (as of 23 October 2026)

Level 2: median 37 credits, TQT hours, GLH; Level 3: median 18 credits, TQT hours, GLH; Level 4: median 33 credits, 780 TQT hours, 125 GLH; Level 5: median 120 credits, 815 TQT hours, 600 GLH; Level 6: median 120 credits, 1200 TQT hours, 480 GLH; Level 7: median 120 credits, 1200 TQT hours, 600 GLH

Regulated qualifications offered by Education Training, by level (as of 23 October 2026)

Level 2: 1 qualification; Level 3: 7 qualifications; Level 4: 14 qualifications; Level 5: 13 qualifications; Level 6: 3 qualifications; Level 7: 4 qualifications (42 in total)

Awarding body and regulation

This qualification is awarded by Qualifi, an awarding organisation regulated by Ofqual. Its qualification number is 610/0227/6 — view the entry on the Ofqual register. Education Training is an approved centre: we deliver and assess the qualification, Qualifi verifies our assessment decisions and issues the certificate. Read about Qualifi recognition.

Additional requirements

Learning outcomes

1. Enable Learners to apply analytical and evaluative education and teaching principles in private and public places of learning.
2. Enhance analytical, practical and evaluative skills relating to teaching and education across all sectors.
3. Deliver education and training.

Qualifi publishes its full additional requirements for this qualification on its own page.

How to apply

Pay the £10 enrolment fee when you submit your application (separate from the course fee).

1. Apply online
   Use Apply now to open the application form with this programme pre-selected. Tell us about your current role and qualifications; pay the £10 enrolment fee to complete enrolment when prompted.
2. Course activation
   Once you enrol, we email your course activation link within 24 hours.
3. Course fee
   Admissions email a secure link to pay the course fee in full or on an instalment plan (usually within one working day). There is no fixed intake date.

Progression path

1. Level 4 Diploma
2. →
3. Level 5 Diploma

Related pages

• Level 4 Diploma in Early Childhood Education
• Level 4 Certificate in Education and Training
• Level 4 Certificate in Learning, Development and Pedagogy

Browse every Early Learning and Childcare qualification or all Level 4 qualifications.