Childcare, Early Years and Education Full Time Programme

Inspire young minds and build the skills to shape future generations.

Level 1 Childcare

Duration: 1 year

This introductory course provides an excellent starting point for students interested in working with children and young people. You will develop an understanding of child development, play, learning and professional practice while building the confidence and skills needed for progression to higher-level qualifications.

Level 2 Working with Children in Early Years and Primary School Settings

Duration: 1 year

This practical programme develops the knowledge and skills required to support children's learning and development in early years and primary school environments. You will explore child development, safeguarding, learning through play and professional responsibilities while gaining valuable insight into careers working with children.

T Level Early Years

Duration: 2 years

The T Level in Early Years has been developed in partnership with employers to prepare students for skilled employment within the childcare and education sector. Combining classroom learning with a substantial industry placement, this programme develops the knowledge, skills and behaviours required to support children's learning, development, wellbeing and education.

Throughout your studies, you will develop industry-relevant skills, knowledge and behaviours including:

• Child growth and development
• Supporting children's learning and play
• Safeguarding and child protection
• Health, safety and wellbeing
• Observation and assessment techniques
• Communication with children and families
• Professional practice and behaviour
• Equality, diversity and inclusion
• Supporting children's physical, emotional and social development
• Teamwork and communication skills 

Students studying the T Level will also develop specialist knowledge in:

• Early years pedagogy
• Child development from birth to five years
• Special educational needs and disabilities (SEND)
• Behaviour and emotional wellbeing
• Partnership working with families and professionals
• Reflective practice and professional development

Students benefit from learning in specialist early years environments designed to reflect professional childcare settings.

Facilities may include:

• Early years learning environments
• Children's play and learning resources
• Observation and assessment facilities
• Interactive teaching spaces
• Specialist childcare equipment
• Digital learning technologies 

These facilities provide practical opportunities to develop the skills required by employers within the childcare and education sector.

Students will require:

• Appropriate stationery and study materials
• Access to a laptop or digital device where possible
• A professional attitude towards working with children and families

Further information will be provided before enrolment.

Practical experience is a key part of childcare and early years programmes.

Students may benefit from:

• Nursery placements
• School-based placements
• Employer-led projects
• Guest speakers from industry
• Early years and education sector visits
• T Level Industry Placement

Students studying the T Level will complete a significant industry placement, providing valuable hands-on experience and helping them develop the professional skills expected by employers.

Successful completion of these courses can lead to:

Further Study

• Level 2 and Level 3 Childcare qualifications
• T Levels
• Apprenticeships
• Higher Technical Qualifications
• Foundation Degrees and University study

Career Opportunities

• Early Years Practitioner
• Nursery Assistant
• Teaching Assistant
• Early Years Educator
• Learning Support Assistant
• Playworker 
• Family Support Worker
• Nursery Practitioner
• Childcare Practitioner
• Primary Education Support Roles