At Level 5, students build on early years practice through leadership focused study. Mandatory units include investigating childhood through action research, improving quality in early education and care environments, managing and leading people in children’s early education and care environments, managing children’s early education and care environments, and mentoring and supervision in early education and care practice. The diploma also includes additional optional and specialist units.
This course is aimed at students who want a clear route into leadership roles or progression to university. It develops advanced professional skills in management, quality improvement, research, safeguarding, and child centred practice. The qualification is mapped to the Early Years Lead Practitioner occupational standard and is designed to support direct employment and degree progression.
Students are likely to need relevant prior study and experience, such as a suitable Level 4 qualification, a strong Level 3 profile with progression potential, or relevant work experience. GCSE English and Maths at grade 4 or above are strongly recommended and may be required for employment purposes in England.
Applications are made online through the North Notts College website. Support with the application process is available through Student Services on 01909 504504.
Nursery leader
Manager
Deputy manager
Childminder
Other leadership or management roles across early childhood environmentsBeing in a small group means you get more one-to-one support from lecturers which was a major advantage for me choosing University Centre Rotherham.Gbekeloluwa BSc(Hons) in Computing and Systems Development
We make every effort to ensure information within our online course directory is accurate and a true representation of the courses we are offering in 2026-27. However, we do reserve the right to make changes if necessary.
