This course is a Licenced to Practice course. This will allow qualified learners to work in an early years setting as a member of the team.
The course is delivered over one academic year. Learners will have to complete knowledge and skill-based units. Learners will be required to complete a large amount of academic work as well as 250 hours in an early years setting. During their placement learners will be expected to complete an assessment via direct observation in a real early years setting.
It is for anyone who is looking to start a career in a range of education, childcare or early years occupations.
Career options might include:
- Nursery worker
- Teaching assistant
- Playworker
- Learning mentor
- Special educational needs teaching assistant
- And many more
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Sector Overview
The Childcare Industry is forecast to grow over the next five years in line with rising employment, which is set to stimulate demand for childcare services.
Additionally, as more households become eligible for free childcare and tax-free childcare schemes, government expenditure within the childcare sector is expected to increase.
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Entry Requirements
The entry requirements for this course are:
- GCSE Grade 3 or Functional Skills Level 1 in both maths and English
- An aptitude and keenness to progress onto a T Level in Education and Childcare.
All students will be required to attend an interview demonstrating their commitment to the programme, and evidencing their qualifications on entry, and sit a diagnostic test in both English and maths.
If a Grade 4 in maths and English has not been achieved, you will be learning these alongside your childcare programme with the expectation to have achieved this by the time you progress onto the chosen T Level.
As part of this programme an enhanced DBS check will be required for placement and as an industry requirement (provided by the College).
Please ensure correct information on any convictions is recorded on your college application so we can discuss this with you.
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What will I study?
This course consists of the following modules
- Plan play, learning or educational activities for children and young people within a specific age range
- Prepare environments for children and young people's play, learning and educational activities
- Observe children and young people's learning and development within a specific age range
- English, maths and digital skills
- Work experience with an employer/s on an industry placement
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How will I be assessed?
You will be assessed via:
- Written tasks
- Practical activity
- Study visits
- Team building activities
- Direct Observation in the placement
All assessments will be assessed via a portfolio of evidence.
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Enrichment
To further enhance your progression, you will actively participate in taking part in trips and visits, such as The Special Needs exhibition and a visit to a Forest School. You will also have access to key employers that will deliver guest lectures to build your industry knowledge and create your future.
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Work Experience
All students must complete a minimum of 250 hours working with an employer(s) on an industry placement.
You will be assigned a workplace assessor who will support you in the placement and monitor your progress. You will be assessed in your workplace via direct Observation.
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Progression opportunities
This course will lead to progression onto:
- Education and Childcare T Level 3
- Employment in the Early Years Sector
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Alumni
Waltham Forest College is a vibrant and aspirational college and will support you to reach your career aspirations. Last year 96% of learners progressed onto a positive destination either to higher levels of study, employment, or an Apprenticeship.
