Level 5 Diploma in Early Learning and Childcare

What is this qualification?

Looking to excel in the field of early learning and childcare? The Level 5 Diploma in Early Learning and Childcare offers comprehensive training and expertise in nurturing young minds. This in-demand course equips you with the skills to promote child development, plan engaging activities, and create safe learning environments. With a focus on practical experience, you'll gain valuable insights into child psychology, early literacy, and inclusive teaching methods. Our qualified instructors and industry-relevant curriculum ensure you're ready for rewarding careers as an early years educator, nursery manager, or childcare practitioner. Enrol today to launch your successful journey in early learning and childcare!

Who is this qualification for?

The Level 5 Diploma in Early Learning and Childcare is designed for individuals passionate about working in the field of early childhood education. It is ideal for aspiring early years practitioners, nursery managers, childcare coordinators, and educators seeking to enhance their skills and knowledge in providing high-quality care and education to young children. This diploma programme offers comprehensive training in child development, curriculum planning, pedagogical strategies, and leadership in early learning settings. Whether you are starting your career or looking to advance in the field, this qualification will equip you with the expertise to make a positive impact on children's lives.

Why choose this qualification

The "the qualification" is essential for aspiring childcare professionals seeking to excel in their careers. This diploma provides comprehensive training in child development, curriculum planning, and effective teaching techniques. With a focus on holistic learning, graduates are equipped to nurture and support young children's growth. Accredited by reputable institutions, this course holds high value in the childcare industry. It opens doors to leadership roles in nurseries, preschools, and daycare centres. With flexible study options, including online learning, it caters to diverse learners. Enrol in this diploma to become a skilled early childhood educator and make a positive impact on future generations.

Qualification structure and units

Mandatory

Optional

Source: Qualifi qualification specification (PDF) · Ofqual qualification number 610/0226/4.

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

• However, learners may find it helpful if they’ve already achieved a Level 4 Certificate in Education and Teaching. There is also requirement for a minimum of 100 hours of teaching practice which must include working with groups and different practice requirements for each unit in this qualification

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

Mandatory and optional units across Level 5 Early Learning and Childcare qualifications (as of 23 October 2026)

the qualification: 4 mandatory, 6 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 610/0226/4 — 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.

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
4. →
5. Level 6 Diploma
6. →
7. QTLS

Related pages

• Level 5 Diploma in Early Childhood Education
• Level 5 Extended Diploma in Early Childhood Education
• Level 5 Certificate in Teaching Learners with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities

Browse every Early Learning and Childcare qualification or all Level 5 qualifications.