A qualified childcare and education worker understands the development of children from birth to sixteen years and works with children and their families to promote the care and education of the child.
You will gain an assistant licence to practiceon successful completion of the Diploma.
This qualification will provide you with the necessary knowledge and practical skills to work under supervision in a range of childcare and educational settings. This may involve working with children with special needs such as learning difficulties or physical difficulties.
During this course you will study the following modules:
• Understanding children’s development
• Keeping children safe
• Communication with children and adults
• Preparing and maintaining the environment for childcare
• Professional development
• The development and care of babies and children under three
You will also take a Functional Skills qualification.
There is also the opportunity to go on trips relating to childcare and team-building during this course.
There are assignments for each unit studied plus practical assessments related to your work experience.
It will be necessary to succesfully complete 300 hrs of work experience.
Progression onto the Level 3 Award/Certificate/Diploma in Children’s Play, Learning and Development or Level 3 Certificate/Sub Diploma/Diploma/Extended Diploma in Health and Social Care
Alternatively you could seek employment, possibly as an Assistant Nursery Nurse, Au Pair or a Nanny in a private household or Pre-school Assistant.
Five GCSEs at grade D or above, including English Language (Written), or an appropriate level 1 qualification with GCSE English Lanquage (Written) D or above/Functional Skills English Level 1. You will need to provide evidence that you have experience working with young children, for example babysitting or voluntary work. You must be between 16-19 years of age.
A clear CRB check is required.
Successful selection interview is necessary
All students applying for this course will be legally required to register with the Vetting and Barring Scheme (VBS) which is administered by the Independent Safeguarding Authority (ISA). The ISA has been established as a single agency to monitor all individuals who want to work or volunteer with vulnerable people. From the 6th of April 2011the fee for an enhanced Criminal Records Bureau (CRB) check will be £44. The College will send further instructions on applying for your CRB as part of the admissions process.
For further guidance and advice contact the Careers team on 01823 366 331, or email enquiries@somerset.ac.uk