Nursery World - Confusion rife over Level 3 distance learning childcare courses

Students should rigorously check the status of qualifications colleges offer, Catherine Gaunt finds in our in-depth investigation.

An investigation by Nursery World has found widespread confusion among childcare students about the status of qualifications offered by some distance learning colleges.

Last month, we revealed how some students are paying hundreds of pounds for courses under the impression they are full and relevant Level 3 qualifications. Although these courses are accredited at Level 3, they can be completed in a few months and with no experience of working with children.

We reported on confusion over the Level 3 Diploma offered by Stonebridge Associated Colleges and approved by the awarding body NCFE. Subsequently, we have been contacted by nurseries, students and training organisations with similar stories.

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