Diploma Programmes
Your Pathway to Professional Practice
Our Montessori full and relevant diploma courses are designed for those who want to build a strong foundation in early years education. With live lectures, tutor support, and hands-on workshops, you’ll gain the skills and confidence to thrive in practice.
Key Features
- Weekly live lectures and recorded access
- Tutor support available Monday–Friday, 9–4
- Drop-in tutorials and support sessions
- Face-to-face workshops throughout your course
- Easy-to-use online platform
- Access to course materials for up to 2 years
- Placement support and in-person visits
- Coursework-based assessment
Your Recognised Route Into the Early Years Workforce
An NCFE Technical Occupational Entry qualification or an NCFE Level 4 Diploma in Early Years is formally recognised as full and relevant for work within early years settings. These qualifications meet national requirements for practitioners to be included in staff‑to‑child ratios and to undertake key responsibilities within regulated provision.
NCFE CACHE Level 3 Technical Occupational Entry in Montessori Pedagogy (Early Years Educator) (Diploma)
Birth to Seven
QN: 610/3983/4
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NCFE CACHE Level 4 Diploma in Montessori Pedagogy Birth to Seven (Early Years Educator)
Birth to Seven
QN: 601/4160/9
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For Prospective Students
A Clear, Compliant Pathway Into Practice
Choosing an NCFE early years qualification gives you a nationally recognised route into the sector. You will graduate with the knowledge, skills, and professional status required to work directly with young children and to progress confidently in your career.
What You Gain
- A recognised full and relevant qualification that meets sector requirements
- Eligibility for ratio‑counted roles, enabling you to work as an Early Years Practitioner from day one
- A strong blend of theory and practical experience, preparing you to meet statutory expectations
- A foundation for progression, including roles such as Room Leader, SEN support, or further study at Level 5 and beyond
- Confidence in your professional identity, grounded in high‑quality training and sector‑aligned standards
These qualifications are ideal for those entering the profession or seeking to deepen their expertise in early childhood development.
For Employers
Assurance, Compliance, and High‑Quality Practice
Recruiting practitioners with NCFE Technical Occupational Entry or Level 4 Diploma ensures your setting benefits from staff who are fully qualified, professionally prepared, and aligned with regulatory expectations.
Why Employers Value These Qualifications
- Recognised as full and relevant under current early years regulations
- Suitable for ratio‑counted roles, supporting safe and compliant staffing
- Grounded in robust early childhood pedagogy, including child development, safeguarding, and responsive practice
- Designed to meet sector needs, ensuring practitioners can contribute effectively from their first day
- Supportive of quality improvement, as staff bring reflective, evidence‑informed approaches to their work
These qualifications help settings maintain high standards of care, education, and regulatory compliance.
A Strong Foundation for the Future
Whether you are beginning your early years career or strengthening your team, NCFE’s Technical Occupational Entry and Level 4 Diploma offer a reliable, recognised, and professionally respected pathway. They ensure that practitioners are fully prepared to support young children’s learning, development, and wellbeing within high‑quality early years environments.