Entry Requirements:

For external applicants:
To access this course, you are required to:

• Three or more GCSEs at grade 2 (E) or above, including English & maths OR
• Functional Skills Level 1 English & maths
• You must have an interest in the subject and keenness to study
• Demonstrate how you have previously had good attendance and punctuality and a good attitude to learning

For internal progression learners (already studying with us):
Learners must be able to demonstrate that they:

• Have successfully completed a relevant course that naturally progresses onto this programme, achieving a good standard
• Have improved their English and maths grades since enrolment
• Have maintained good attendance and punctuality
• Show a consistently positive attitude to learning

Please note:

• Acceptance on the course is subject to an interview and you will also be required to have a satisfactory DBS (Disclosure & Barring Service) check.
• If you want to progress to the Level 2 qualification you will need to successfully complete this level along with the required level for English and Maths.

What will I learn?

During this course you will study a range of topics and learn about:

• Children’s play and leisure activities in the community
• Sharing learning experiences with Children
• Growth and development of young children
• Supporting babies to play
• Self-development
• Listening to and talking with young children
• Healthy eating for families
• Practical health and safety when with young children
• Craft activities for young children
• Respecting and valuing children
• Safeguarding the welfare of children and young people
• Preparing for your next steps

You will also study maths and English which are a crucial part of developing the necessary skills for your continued progression.

What skills will I gain?

By studying this course you will:

• Develop skills to effectively communicate with children
• Be able to plan a physical care routine for children
• Prepare activities which will encourage children to eat healthily
• Understand how to provide a safe environment for children
• Know how to value children by treating each as an individual
• Practice ways in which you can provide a stimulating environment for children
• Gain valuable team working and communication skills by taking part in a group activity which would engage children in a variety of activities
• Develop your skills in reading, writing & speaking through presentations to fellow students, reading and following instructions, planning and evaluating activities and completing job applications
• Develop your maths skills by designing games and activities for children (using number & calculation), organising practical early years activities (using measure, volume & quantity) and keeping children safe (using ratios)

How will I be assessed?

You will be assessed throughout the course in the following ways:

• Project work
• Assignments
• Peer assessments
• Presentations
• Case studies
• Workbooks
• Controlled assessment carried out in exam conditions.

You will also be required to sit exams for English and maths.

What can I do next?

Completion of this course will enable you to:

• Take the first steps towards a career in early years education
• Progress to the Level 2 CACHE (Council for Awards in Childcare & Education) Diploma in Early Years