UK Department for Eduction (DFE)Accredited (NPQs)

Early Childhood Special Educational Needs (ECSEN) Level 3 Award

The ECSEN course provides key skills in identifying and supporting young children with special educational needs.Qualified learners will be able to work closely with families and professionals to ensure children receive the right support, helping to secure the best possible outcomes in their early development and learning.

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Quick Facts

Awarding Body

UK Department for Education

Study Mode

Online / Blended

Course Format

Online Study Units

Certification

England's DFE Accredited

Registration

Up to 4 weeks in advance of course

Certificate Timeline

Issued after completion within 4 weeks

Who should apply for the ECSEN Award?

Teaching Assistants

Support staff

Teachers

Nursery managers

Home schooling parents

Au Pairs

Course Duration

6 months

Accredited by

Accredited by NCFE

global settings

Virtual Online Workshops

Learning Method

Online

Access to

expert guidance

Total Guided Learning

24 hours

Registration Process

Submit Application

Submit your application through ICD's online form. Shortlisted candidates receive an offer letter.

Payment & Enrolment

Pay the course fee and share the payment receipt to confirm enrolment.

Access Portal

Once enrolled, you'll receive your login details by email to begin coursework on ICD's portal.

Each of the four annual intakes (Jan, April, July, October) runs for 3 months.

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What are the benefits of completing the ECSEN Award?

Benefits for schools

Stronger SEND provision from the ground up

Having a certified ECSEN teacher can boost your team’s ability to identify and respond to SEN needs early - supporting better outcomes for all children.

Improved parent trust and confidence

Families are more likely to engage with a setting that has a inclusive provision, especially when their child has additional needs.

Demonstrates your commitment to inclusion

With certified staff, your setting can proudly promote its inclusive values - supported by official status, digital banners, and a certificate.

Benefits for learners

Enhanced professional development

Gain practical tools and up-to-date knowledge to take the lead in SEN support across your setting.

Career development in early childhood SEND

This nationally recognised qualification helps you stand out and take the next step in your early childhood career.

Make a measurable difference

Learn how to create effective support plans and work meaningfully with families - impacting children's lives right from the start.

What will you learn on the ECSEN Award programme?

The ECSEN Award equips educators with essential knowledge, practical skills, and inclusive strategies to support special educational needs within early years and primary learning environments. Through this qualification, you will gain specialized expertise in identifying learning barriers, applying evidence-based intervention techniques, and fostering an inclusive classroom culture.With a focus on modern educational standards, the programme sharpens your practical competencies—preparing you to collaborate effectively with school leadership, specialists, and parents to support every student's development.

How is the ECSEN Award Delivered?

The ECSEN Award is delivered over 6 months through Online Taught Sessions and Online Study Units.

The Online Taught Sessions are 2 hours long and consist of live tutor-led training, incorporating pre-reading tasks, breakout room activities, group discussion and group training.

The Online Study Units are delivered through the Canvas Virtual Learning Environment. Login details and induction training will be provided before the programme starts.

FAQs

What are the requirements?

This award is open to anyone working in an educational setting - specifically nurseries & primary - in a teaching, support or leadership role with children.

What does it cost?

The ECSEN Award is £950 plus VAT where applicable. VAT is chargeable on courses funded by private individuals.

How much time will I need to spend on the programme?

The ECSEN Award specification is clear that the number of Guided Learning Hours (GLH) is 24, although clearly some individual learners may take more time. The Guided Learning Hours on our programme equate to 8 hours of taught sessions (4 x 2 hours) and an expectation of a minimum of 16 hours online/independent study.

Total Qualification time will include induction to the programme, initial needs analysis, and assessment activity.

How is the qualification assessed?

You will be assessed through an e-portfolio of evidence against these 32 Assessment Criteria. Throughout the course you will complete and upload assignments. Once all 32 criteria have been demonstrated, you will be awarded the qualification (subject to moderation).

Program Fee

EARLY YEARS & SEN

Specialized training for foundational impact

Cert in Early Childhood Special Educational Needs (ECSEN)

£ 950

Total Course Fee

Need-based and merit-based scholarships available at ICD Centers.

Enquire Now

Take the next step in your teaching journey by registering your interest with ICD. Submit your enquiry online to receive guidance on modules, preparation options, registration, and payment process.