Which CACHE Qualification Is Right for You — Level 3 or Level 5?
- Sep 3
- 2 min read
If you're at a crossroads in your early years career, wondering what qualification to go for next, you're not alone. While both CACHE Level 3 and Level 5 hold huge value, knowing which one fits your experience and ambition is key to getting the most out of your training.
Here’s a straightforward guide to help you choose the right path:
This course is ideal if your goal is to teach in nurseries or early years settings. It’s typically taken by people who already have experience and want to formalise their skills with recognised certification.
Who is it for?
Those aiming to work as qualified practitioners in nurseries
Applicants with either:
Minimum 2 years of experience in an early years setting
OR a completed CACHE Level 2 Certificate plus 9 months experience
Why it matters: It equips you with practical expertise in planning, pedagogy, and child development. CACHE Level 3 is internationally recognised and valued by nursery employers in the UAE and beyond. It’s the qualification that says, “I understand how children learn—and I can make it happen.”
Designed for those ready to lead, this qualification prepares you for senior and management roles within early years settings.
Who is it for?
Practitioners who already hold a CACHE Level 3 Diploma (or equivalent)
Those either already in—or supported by their employer to move into—leadership roles
What it brings: This is about influence, impact, and professional voice. You’ll learn to manage teams, understand safeguarding and quality frameworks, lead inclusive settings, and translate strategy into practice. It’s perfect for ambitious educators aiming to make significant changes in their setting.
Worth knowing: According to the NCFE CACHE qualification spec, the Level 5 Diploma requires significant guided learning (around 936 hours), including 300 hours of practical workplace experience—so it’s a serious investment in your future. (ncfe.org.uk)
How to Choose
Your Goal | Choose CACHE Level 3 Here | Choose CACHE Level 5 Here |
You want to be confidently qualified to teach | 2+ years nursery experience or Level 2 + 9 months experience | Need the foundations of teaching before leading |
You’d like to manage or lead an early years team | Ideal stepping stone | Designed for leadership and strategic development |
You prefer practical teaching frameworks | Focused on planning, child learning, and pedagogy | Develops leadership, quality assurance, and inclusive practices |
In Summary
CACHE Level 3 is the qualification that brings your teaching skills into formal recognition.
CACHE Level 5 is for those who want to lead, manage, and elevate practice across a setting.
No matter where you’re headed—classroom or leadership—both paths are valuable and respected. Choose the one that matches your current experience and supports the difference you want to make.
Ready to take the next step?
Our Level 5 Diploma begins on 9 September, and our Level 3 Diploma follows on 16 September.
We have a few spots left — apply today to secure your place.
