Qualifications deemed full and relevant on the CWDC Qualifications List will now be available to new learners beyond spring 2012, creating further uncertainties around the status of the new Level 2 and 3 Diplomas for the Children and Young People’s Workforce, intended to be the sole full qualifications at these levels.
The move comes in support of the Government’s review of early years qualifications, led by Professor Cathy Nutbrown. A statement about any future cut-off dates will be made in the Government’s response to the Nutbrown Review, which is expected to be published in summer 2012.
Although CWDC has done a lot of work around rationalising qualifications in recent years, the sector remains confused about which qualifications are still available to study and about the value of legacy qualifications. Under the postponement, the Level 3 Diploma in Childcare and Education will continue to be available, along with the Level 4 in Children’s Care, Learning and Development.
The extended Level 3 Diploma for the Children and Young People’s Workforce was recently launched by CACHE as a two-year, college-based course for younger learners. However, it has yet to be confirmed whether it will be awarded UCAS points and provide a bridge to degree-level study.
Meanwhile, Edexcel is unveiling its new Level 3 BTEC National in Children’s Play, Learning and Development, available to be taught in September 2012. Developed with the help of author and early years consultant Penny Tassoni, this will carry 180 credits, subject to accreditation by Ofqual.
Widely supported by employers such as Bright Horizons and organisations such as Montessori and Steiner, Edexcel says this is designed to meet the rigorous standards which are the focus of the Nutbrown Review.
Edexcel is hosting launch events throughout November to inform colleges about how the qualification works in practice through its specifications, assessment materials and resources.
