Build a foundation for your future in childhood education and develop the in-demand skills needed to work with children aged between 0 and 5 years.
Education and Early Years
Full time courses
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Step into a career in Education and Early Years
If you are interested in working with young children, this area of study will provide you with the first step into a challenging but very rewarding career. You will develop sought-after skills and learn how to support children in the crucial early years which are fundamental to their development and success.
Our qualifications give you the foundation to progress into a range of roles in childcare and education such as Early Years practitioner, Teaching Assistant, Special Educational Needs Officer and Speech and Language Therapist.
Get Industry Experience
You will benefit from structured work placements, which are an integral part of your qualification. Extensive links with local employers provides access to placement opportunities and real-life training.
We also have our EKC Folkestone Nursery on site, where you can gain even more practical experience during your course.
Excellent Facilities
You will gain practical experience in our training nursery, with access to specialist facilities to give you an understanding of how real childcare centres work.
Our industry-standard equipment includes programmable robots and simulation dolls to develop the skills and knowledge you need to progress into a career in education and early years.
My Work Placement Success: Elissa, T Level Education and Early Years
14 January 2026
T Level Education and Early Years learner, Elissa, has gained new confidence and skills thanks to her success during work placements.
How you apply for a course at EKC Folkestone College
Step 1 – Find a subject you’re interested in
Explore our range of courses and find the one that is right for you.
Step 2 – Apply
Apply via our website and online application portal.
Step 3 – Come to an interview
Come to EKC Folkestone College in person for an applicant day to explore our facilities and meet our team.
Career prospects
Example:
Primary Education Teaching Professional
£
£30,680
Annual pay
Annual pay is per year, based on full-time employment and on the South East region.
Role description
Nursery education teaching professionals care for and teach children up to the age of entry into primary school.
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LMI for All
The course has given me the opportunity to gain real experience in education. I’ve had the chance to ‘try before I buy’ and learn the role of a TA without the pressures of full-time employment which has been really helpful.
Zara Walton
Supporting Teaching and Learning
I was quite apprehensive about coming back into education as an adult. I wasn’t sure what to expect, but our tutor was really welcoming, and the workload has been very manageable. It’s not as scary as you think.
Shelley Godden
Supporting Teaching and Learning
I’ve really enjoyed the course, especially learning more about Special Educational Needs and how we can support SEN students. The course has helped me realise I want to continue studying to become a Forest School Leader.
Ruby Maxwell
Supporting Teaching and Learning
We’re part of six community-based colleges
