Nursery World - Guide to EYE: part 4 - An eye for a specialism

Gabriella Jozwiak explores Pearson's optional units for the Early
Years Educator qualification, which have been put together with
expertise from bodies such as PACEY and Skills Active.

Choice and specialism are prominent features of the two diploma-standard Early Years Educator (EYE) qualifications offered for the first time this month by Pearson. The awarding body has designed college and work-based routes for students aged 16 or above. Both last for a minimum of two years full-time or while in employment. The Government announced the EYE as the new Level 3 qualification in 2013.

Whereas core units of EYE qualifications must adhere to criteria set out by the National College for Teaching & Leadership to gain accreditation, awarding bodies are able to shape optional units without restrictions. Pearson approached its design by working with representatives from the early years sector. In the college-based diploma, units four and five (see box) focus on home-based care and were developed in consultation with PACEY. Unit seven was written in conjunction with Skills Active, 13 and 14 with Montessori and Steiner Waldorf, and the National Day Nurseries Association supported the final optional unit on career development (17).

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