OTHM Level 5 Diploma in Early Childhood Education

Develop essential early childhood education skills for teaching and childcare roles.

  • Level 5 Diploma
  • Early Childhood Education
  • EarlyChildhoodEducation
  • Duration: 6 Months
  • Admission open 2026

Overview

The OTHM Level 5 Diploma in Early Childhood Education is an undergraduate-level qualification designed for individuals seeking to develop essential skills in early childhood education and childcare. This 120-credit programme provides fundamental knowledge and skills in child development, educational theory, and teaching practices for young children.

Throughout this course, students will explore key areas including Child Development, Early Years Education, Child Psychology, Teaching Methods, Curriculum Planning, and Child Protection. The curriculum is structured to develop both theoretical understanding and practical teaching skills, ensuring graduates are well-prepared for teaching and childcare positions.

Learners will develop essential skills in child assessment, classroom management, educational planning, and child protection. The programme emphasises the application of early childhood education theories and practices in real educational environments, preparing students to handle teaching challenges across various early childhood settings.

Upon completion, graduates will possess the early childhood education knowledge, teaching capabilities, and practical skills required for teaching assistant roles, progression to Level 7 qualifications, or further professional development in education.

Career opportunities

As a graduate of the OTHM Level 5 Diploma in Early Childhood Education, you'll have excellent career opportunities in the education and childcare sector. The teaching skills and child development knowledge gained will make you a valuable candidate for mid-level positions, including:

Teaching Assistant

Support classroom teaching and learning activities

Early Years Educator

Provide early years education and care

Childcare Worker

Supervise and care for young children

Nursery Assistant

Assist in nursery education activities

Play Leader

Organise and lead play activities

Child Development Officer

Monitor and support child development

Preschool Teacher

Teach in preschool educational settings

What will you learn

  • Child Development: Learn child development theories and developmental milestones.
  • Early Years Education: Understand early years educational frameworks and practices.
  • Child Psychology: Master basic child psychology and behavior management.
  • Teaching Methods: Learn effective teaching strategies for young children.
  • Curriculum Planning: Develop skills in planning and implementing early years curriculum.
  • Child Protection: Understand child protection policies and safeguarding procedures.
  • Play-Based Learning: Master play-based learning and educational activities.

Key Facts

Awarding Body OTHM
Qualification Level Level 5
Total Credits 120 Credits
Total Qualification Time 600 Hours
Guided Learning Hours 240 Hours
Study Mode 100% Online — Assignment Based
Duration 6 Months (Fast-track) / 9 Months (Standard)

Fee and Payment Plans

30 to 40% Cheaper than most Universities and Colleges

Duration & course fee

The programme is available in two duration modes:

18 Months (Accelerated mode / Fast-track):GBP £8700

24 Months (Standard mode): GBP £7700

This programme does not have any additional costs.

The fee is payable in monthly or quarterly instalments.

You can avail 5% discount if you pay the full fee upfront in 1 instalment


Payment plans

24 Months - GBP £7700
Stage 1 Fee GBP £2800
  • Payment option (a) - GBP £280 x 10 monthly instalments
  • Payment option (b) - GBP £933 x 3 quarterly instalments
  • Payment option (c) - GBP £1400 x 2 half yearly instalments
  • Payment option (d) - GBP £2660 x 1 instalment (We offer 5% bursary on total fee for students opting to pay in full)

Stage Fee GBP £4900 is payable directly to the university

18 Months - GBP £8700
Stage 1 Fee GBP £3800
  • Payment option (a) - GBP £633 x 6 monthly instalments
  • Payment option (b) - GBP £1900 x 2 quarterly instalments
  • Payment option (c) - GBP £3610 x 1 instalment (We offer 5% bursary on total fee for students opting to pay in full)

Stage 2 Fee GBP £4900 is payable directly to the university

Entry Requirements

Educational Background

Open Entry: This program is open to all applicants, regardless of previous qualifications. Whether you're starting fresh or seeking to build on existing knowledge, everyone is encouraged to apply. Higher qualifications and relevant experience are also welcomed but not required.

Age Requirement

Applicants must be 16 years or older. This program is designed to support both recent school leavers and those beginning their professional journey.

International applicants and their qualifications are accepted.

Step into a transformative journey at HealthSocial.Care, where you'll become part of a vibrant community of students from over 157 nationalities.

At HealthSocial.Care, we are a global family. When you join us, your qualifications are recognised and accepted, making you a valued member of our diverse, internationally connected community.

Modules

Mandatory Units

6 Units

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