NCFE Level 3 Diploma in Playwork
Course Overview
The NCFE Level 3 Diploma in Playwork is designed for individuals who work or aspire to work in play settings, supporting children and young people to engage in freely chosen, self-directed play. This qualification provides the knowledge, skills, and understanding required to create safe, stimulating, and inclusive play environments that promote creativity, independence, and well-being.
Who is this course for?
· Current playworkers seeking a formal qualification.
· Those working in out-of-school clubs, adventure playgrounds, holiday schemes, or similar settings.
· Individuals aiming to progress into supervisory or managerial roles within playwork.
Course Aims
· Develop a deep understanding of the playwork principles and their application.
· Equip learners with the ability to plan, deliver, and evaluate play opportunities.
· Promote inclusive practice and safeguard children and young people in play settings.
· Support professional development and progression within the playwork sector.
What You Will Study
Throughout the course you will study:
Unit 1 Understand play and the playwork principles
Unit 2 Creating supporting environments for children’s play
Unit 3 Understand relationships in the playwork setting
Unit 4 Understand how to support the safeguarding of children in the playwork setting
Unit 5 Understand organisational frameworks to protect the rights of children
Unit 6 Contribute to organisational frameworks to respond to all children’s needs and preferences
Unit 7 Understand play and wellbeing
Unit 8 Understand health, safety and security in the playwork setting
Unit 9 Maintain healthy, safe and secure environments in playwork
Unit 10 Engage in professional development and reflective practice
Unit 11 Develop and promote relationships in the playwork setting
Unit 12 Prepare for and support children’s play
Unit 13 Explore different perspectives and influences on playwork
Unit 14 Supporting inclusion in a playwork setting
Unit 15 Organise travel for children
Unit 16 Understand teamwork for quality playwork practice
Unit 17 Provide food and drink in a playwork setting
There is no onsite attendance required, as this is a fully online course. Though learners are expected to undertake regular weekly study.
Throughout the course you will be assessed through a range of assessment methods, including:
· Short answer questions
· Short essays
· Presentations
· Work place reflections.
To study this course you must be working or have a placement in a play environment. These can include
· Before and after school clubs
· Holiday playschemes
· Adventure playgrounds
· Open access play setting
If you have any questions about the placement please contact distancelearning@heartofyorkshire.ac.uk
Funding is available for this course subject to personal circumstances and post code.
Upon completion of the course, you could to progress to higher studies, including in Youth work