The Certificate in Early Childhood Care and Education is the entry-level pathway, introducing care, development and early learning for children aged 0–6.
The Certificate is the foundational ECCE pathway, introducing the care, development and early learning of children from 0–6 years for those new to the field.
Who should consider this level?
- Early childhood educators and assistants
- Aspiring preschool and nursery teachers
- Childcare professionals seeking education-focused development
- Parents and caregivers who want a structured professional foundation
What you will learn
- Understand major areas of early childhood development
- Create supportive, inclusive learning environments
- Use play and everyday routines as opportunities for learning
- Observe development and respond to individual differences
- Work constructively with families and other professionals
What the Certificate covers
The curriculum below shows the core areas covered in this pathway. Assessment depth and project work scale with the Certificate level.
Foundations of early childhood care and education
Physical, cognitive, language and social-emotional development
Health, nutrition, wellbeing and safeguarding awareness
Play-based learning and curriculum planning
Learning environments and resources
Observation, documentation and assessment
Inclusion and individual differences
Family partnership and professional practice
How online study works
The programme is online and designed for flexible study, allowing learners to work through the modules alongside professional or family responsibilities.
Assessment
- Module knowledge checks and MCQs
- Observation, planning and reflective activities
- Written assignments on selected Diploma and PG Diploma pathways
Course Support
Academic support is available Monday through Friday from 10 am to 6 pm. Learners may also send questions by email or WhatsApp outside those hours, and the support team will respond as soon as possible. Each learner is assigned a tutor who can clarify course content, answer programme questions and provide guidance during study.
Certification
London College of Teachers issues the professional certification associated with the selected level. Any joint-certification arrangement applicable to a specific pathway is identified separately during admissions.
How this course may support your professional development
The programme supports professional learning for early childhood, nursery, preschool and child-development-related roles, subject to employer and local regulatory requirements.
Apply for the Certificate in Early Childhood Care and Education
Tell us about your experience, intended role and country. Admissions can confirm current fees, entry requirements and certification details for this level before you enrol.