COURSE INFORMATION

This course is suited to those who have limited experience of working with children and of academic study, but wish to develop the skills to progress within the field of childhood studies.

You will develop the knowledge to organise a safe environment for children, to plan for play experiences along with study units that will provide an introduction to child development and how to care for a child’s needs, whilst developing the skills for further study. 

  • Team work
  • Organisational skills
  • Good communication skills
  • Confidence
  • Resilience
  • One year full-time
  • A career in early learning and child care involves working with pre-school and school age children often in a play group, out of school care, nursery or crèche setting
  • This course provides an introduction to working with children and develops the skills, values required to study within the field of childcare

Some of the units you will study include:

  • Working in early learning and childcare
  • Child development
  • Play in early learning and childcare
  • Care of children
  • Maintenance of a safe environment for children
  • History of childcare
  • Promote the safeguarding of children and young people
  • The Core Skills of ICT, numeracy and communication will be developed and certificated on this course

You will take part in activities in and out of the classroom, including activities outdoors

You must be 16 years of age at the start of the course and possess one of the following:

  • Two National 4s, one of which should be English, or equivalent
  • All the units from an entry level course such as Step Up SCQF Level 3
  • Relevant experience will be considered on an individual basis for those without formal qualifications

 

  • Intermediate Certificate: Childhood Studies SCQF Level 5
  • National Certificate: Health and Social Care SCQF Level 5
  • Employment in the child, health and social care sector or further study and completion of registered childcare qualifications.
  • Students are required to purchase stationery
  • You should also ensure that you have appropriate clothing and outdoor footwear as you will be expected to participate in outdoor learning activities whilst in college and on work placement
  • Evidence of interest in the childcare sector from a personal statement
  • Qualifications as detailed on application
  • You may be required to take part in an informal conversation as part of the application process. This group/individual conversation may be an information session, a portfolio discussion, or a skills based exercise
  • Reference to support application or school transition form where applicable
  • Must be 16 years of age at start of study
  • Eligibility for membership of the PVG scheme to attend any mandatory work place experience