OTHM Level 5 Extended Diploma in Early Childhood Education

The OTHM Level 5 Extended Diploma in Early Childhood Education is an Ofqual-regulated qualification (Ref: 610/4867/7) consisting of 12 mandatory units worth 240 credits, designed to be delivered over two academic years full-time with flexible part-time and distance learning options.

• Ofqual-regulated qualification awarded by OTHM (Recognition Number RN5284)

• 12 mandatory units with a total credit value of 240 credits

• Academically equivalent to a Higher National Diploma (HND) and Year 2 of a UK Bachelor's degree

• Flexible delivery via face-to-face lectures, tutorials, seminars, distance, and online learning

• Assessment through assignment submissions with no formal examinations required

• Internal quality assurance by the centre and external verification by OTHM

The OTHM Level 5 Extended Diploma in Early Childhood Education is intended to develop learners' understanding of a wide range of topics relevant to early childhood development theories. The focus of this qualification is on understanding both developmental patterns and sequences in children's development, and how the context of this impacts on children's progress. Learners will engage with foundational theories and models that have shaped understanding of child development, and contemporary theory that explores emerging trends in early childhood education.

• Covers both Level 4 foundational units and Level 5 advanced specialist units across two academic years

• Develops understanding of developmental patterns, sequences, and the contextual factors impacting children's progress

• Engages learners with foundational and contemporary theories of child development

• Focuses on creating environments that support active learning through sensory exploration

• Addresses how children form identities, regulate emotions, and achieve developmental milestones

• Prepares learners for leadership and specialist roles in early years professional settings

Upon successful completion of this qualification, learners will have developed comprehensive knowledge and professional skills across all areas of early childhood education.

• Develop academic writing and critical research skills relevant to early childhood studies

• Understand traditional and contemporary theories of child growth, physical development, and developmental milestones

• Foster collaborative and inclusive relationships with children, parents, colleagues, and other professionals

• Plan and facilitate meaningful play-based learning experiences that promote independent thinking and problem-solving

• Analyse theories of early language and communication development and strategies to support children's literacy

• Understand personal, social, and emotional development and the practices that support or hinder progress

This qualification is designed for learners who are typically aged 18 and above and wish to develop advanced knowledge and professional practice in early years education, preparing for leadership or specialist roles in early childhood settings.

• Aspiring early years practitioners seeking a comprehensive vocational qualification

• Nursery supervisors and room leaders aiming to advance their qualifications

• Preschool and childcare coordinators wishing to deepen theoretical and practical knowledge

• Teaching assistants in early years settings looking to progress professionally

• Early years curriculum assistants seeking leadership-level understanding

• Mature learners over 21 with relevant management experience in childcare or education

These qualifications are designed for learners who are typically aged 18 and above. Learners are not required to be employed in an early years or childcare setting to undertake this qualification.

• Relevant Level 3 or Level 4 Diploma qualification, GCE Advanced Level in 3 subjects, or equivalent qualification; mature learners over 21 with relevant management experience may also be considered (subject to centre verification)

• Evidence of English language competency for learners not from a majority English-speaking country, in accordance with OTHM English Language Expectations

All units within this qualification are internally assessed by the centre and externally verified by OTHM. The qualifications are criterion referenced, based on the achievement of all the specified learning outcomes.

• Written assignment submissions for each unit demonstrating fulfilment of all learning outcomes and assessment criteria

• Internal quality assurance conducted by the approved centre

• External verification carried out by OTHM to ensure standards are met

• No formal examinations or practical observations required

Learners who achieve this qualification can progress into employment in early years settings or advance to further qualifications and degree programmes through OTHM's university progression arrangements.

• Progress to the OTHM Level 6 Diploma in Early Childhood Education or equivalent qualification

• Enter a top-up Bachelor's degree (BA or BSc) in Early Childhood Studies, Education, or a related discipline at a recognised UK university

• Pursue further professional training towards Early Years Teacher Status (EYTS) or Qualified Teacher Status (QTS)

• Gain employment as an Early Years Practitioner, Nursery Supervisor, Room Leader, Preschool Coordinator, or Teaching Assistant in early years settings