The National Award/Certificate or National Diploma courses are equivalent to one, two or three A Levels. The National Certificate and Diploma and will also give you a 'licence to practice' (a widely recognised childcare qualification).
This course is suitable if you want to work with children from newborn to eight years. You will learn by completing projects and assignments that are based on realistic workplace situations, activities and demands.
As well as learning about the employment area you have chosen, you will develop the skills required for a wide range of careers.
You will study a range of subjects, examples include:
Work placements are an essential part of the course offering students an insight into different areas of early years/childcare settings.
You will also take a Functional Skills qualification.
You will be taught through a range of teaching styles supported by excellent IT and learning resources. You will be assessed through assignment work, which could include individual and group projects, presentations, practical and written work.
Observation is an important part of the assessment used for this course both in College and work placement settings. You will produce a portfolio of work experience evidence.
Successful completion of at least 800 hours in 4 different specialist areas is needed to gain the Diploma qualification.
The employment market is growing as more childcare places are made available for three to four year olds, so to develop your skills and knowledge further you could progress onto the Foundation Degree or BA (Hons) in Early Childhood Studies at Somerset College. Careers with further training needed include Child Psychology.
Alternatively, you could find employment in many settings including a Nursery Nurse, Classroom Teaching Assistant or a Nanny in a private household.
It is important to check with Careers Advisers the precise entry requirements for university courses and occupations.
Five GCSEs at grade A* to C, including English Language (Written), or a Level 2 Diploma in a related subject at merit level and GCSE English Language at grade C or above. You must be between 16 - 19 years of age. A CRB check is required.
Successful selection interview is necessary. You will need to provide evidence that you have experience working with children, for example; baby sitting or voluntary work.
This course may involve regular access to children and/or vulnerable adults (also known as regulated activity).
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 2011 the 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