Childcare

What will the course Cover?

This qualification is designed to help learners build the knowledge and skills needed when working under supervision with children and young people from birth to 19 years of age. It covers a diverse range of job roles and occupational areas working in children’s settings including early years and social care. There are 14 units in this qualification. You will study a number of units at any one time, within four main themes. Each unit will vary in length and may be spread over one or more terms. The themes are: Theme 1 – Introducing the Role of the Early Years Practitioner (3 units) Theme 2 – Legislation, Framework and Professional Practice (3 units) Theme 3 – Play, Development and Learning for School Theme 4 – Professional Development

Who is this course for?

The NCFE Level 2 Certificate is for people who are interested in careers working with children from birth to five years. You will also learn about the care and education of children aged between five and seven years. You will develop the skills and knowledge needed for a wide range of careers that involve the care and education of young children.

What skills, knowledge or experience do I need to start this course?

To gain entry to this course, you must attend an interview and complete the skills assessment. You must provide evidence of literacy and numeracy skills at level 2, or be willing to work towards achieving the GCSE O Level (English & Maths). English and Maths classes are available via the Skills for Life department (ask at interview for more details). Learners will need to be working or volunteering in a nursery, school crèche or children's centre as they need to show competence in both knowledge and skills. Applicants must have undergone an enhanced Criminal Record Bureau (DBS) check.

What should I be able to do by the end of the course?

The course can lead directly to jobs in early years care and education. You may find work with voluntary and private agencies or with families, as a Nursery assistant, Classroom assistant, Pre-school assistant or a Nanny. Alternatively, you could progress on to the NCFE Level 3 Diploma in Early Years Education and Care or the NCFE Level 3 Diploma for the Early Years Workforce.

How is the course organised?

The course will consist of 5.5 hours learning per week for three terms. You will learn in a small group of maximum class size of 12. You will have tutorial sessions once a term with your tutor and regular meetings with your assessor depending on the level of support as an individual learner. You will be expected to take part in enrichment activities, and presentations of research topics as identified by the course tutor.

What extra study or practice is expected outside of the class?

To gain the maximum benefit, you should read recommended books and websites, and review the topics covered during the class each week. You should research unit topics, and work on sections of your assignments after each class session. Computer access is available at Study Support sessions at Macbeth Centre. Candidates will be expected to undertake additional study in their own time and complete assignments, including weekly Learning Journals. You will also be required to complete 250 hours placement, either paid or voluntary in a childcare environment working with children from birth to 5 years. You will be given further details at induction.

How will my progress be assessed?

Assignment, Evidence portfolio, Observations of your performance in the workplace, Satisfactory reports from your work placements. You will also have tutorial sessions once a term with your course tutor, and will complete learning journals throughout the course. You must pass all the units to achieve the full qualification.

What can I expect to go on to after this course?

The course can lead directly to jobs in early years care and education. You may find work with voluntary and private agencies or with families, as a Nursery assistant, Classroom assistant, Pre-school assistant or a Nanny. Alternatively, you could progress on to the NCFE Level 3 Diploma in Early Years Education and Care or the NCFE Level 3 Diploma for the Early Years Workforce.

Are there any other costs and what do I need to bring?

All assessment and registration costs are included in the course fee, and we will provide stationery as needed. You will be responsible for your Disclosure & Barring Services check (formerly referred to as CRB).

What support is available?

Details of all available support can be found on our website (hfals.ac.uk), in the Guide and the Student handbook, or from teaching or reception staff.