T/651/1390 Unit 1 Introduction to the Role of the Early Years Educator Assessment 2026

NCFE CACHE Level 3 Diploma for Working in the Early Years Sector

Unit 1 Introduction to the role of the early years educator (T/651/1390)

This unit explores the role and responsibilities of the reflective early years educator whilst appreciating the knowledge, skills and behaviours required for effective engagement within own role.

Part 1

1.1- Explain the professional role and responsibilities of an early years educator regarding knowledge, skills and behaviours.

1.2- Describe the professional role of the early years educator with regard to the potential of supervising other staff and leading the setting.

2.1- Reflect on prior learning and experience, as appropriate, to describe the role as an early years educator in the following aspects. (You may use the template in Laser Library of a Reflective Account to answer this)

• reporting and types of records expected
• whistleblowing procedures
• protecting and promoting the welfare of children in line with statutory requirements
• safeguarding in line with statutory requirements
• confidentiality
• information-sharing
• use of technology
• referring development concerns
• protecting self (for example, media and online presence)
• staff health and safety, including mental health and wellbeing support and supervision

3.1- Analyse supervision as an opportunity for staff to discuss issues, concerns and plans.

10.2- Discuss how an effective supervision encourages confidential discussion of sensitive issues at all stages of a career.

Part 2

4.1- Explain the role of reflective practice and how evidence-based, continuous professional development can improve practice for children’s academic outcomes as well as increase own career opportunities.

4.2- Describe methods of reflective and reflexive practice and opportunities for continuing professional development (CPD), including participating in supervision for growth and improved practice.

4.3- Explain progression opportunities in an early years setting to include leadership and management positions.

11.2- Develop a personal development plan to support goals.

11.3- Discuss how the role of a mentor and supervision can support career goals.

Using a reflective account (template on Laser),

8.1- Discuss the importance of challenging practice in the best interests of babies and children.

8.2- Summarise steps to take when challenging the practice of colleagues.

You may add examples of situations when you challenged others’ practices, why it was important and how did you do this)

Uploading Evidence

Once all the above criteria are answered, please upload the evidence on Laser by selecting the above criteria only.

Remaining criteria can be evidenced through observation, professional discussion, work products, etc.

Explanation of Terms

Analyse: Break down the subject into separate parts and examine each part. Show how the main ideas are related and why they are important. Reference to current research or theory may support the analysis.

Describe: Write about the subject giving detailed information in a logical way.

Discuss: Write a detailed account giving a range of views or opinions.

Explain: Provide detailed information about the subject with reasons showing how or why. Responses could include examples to support these reasons.

Reflect: Learners should consider their actions, experiences or learning and the implications of this for their practice and/or professional development.

Summarise: Give the main ideas or facts in a concise way.

Useful References

• https://sdgdata.gov.uk/
• https://shamimasworkshop.com/the-role-of-the-early-years-practitioner-in-an-early-years-setting
• https://www.nurseryworld.co.uk/features/article/ethics-do-the-right-thing
• https://showcasetraining.co.uk/2023/12/06/the-importance-of-reflective-practice-in-early years/#:~:text=There%20are%20many%20benefits%20to,implement%20more%20effective%20learning%20experiences
• https://www.teachearlyyears.com/learning-and-development/view/reflective-practice-how-to-use-it-in-your-early-years-setting
• https://birthto5matters.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/PDF-20-Professional-Reflective-Practice-1-1.pdf
• https://www.pacey.org.uk/Pacey/media/Website-files/PACEY%20member%20practice%20guides%20(PDFs)/PG04-self-reflective-practice.pdf
• https://www.bristolearlyyears.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2016/10/BEYR_STAFF_SUPERVISION_IN_EYFS_12.WEB_.pdf
• https://thehub-beta.walthamforest.gov.uk/sites/default/files/2019-09/supervision_in_the_early_years.pdf
• https://api.warwickshire.gov.uk/documents/WCCC-555761535-634

Assessor: Shamima Fowzee