The early years sector in England is made up of over 80,000 settings, with 1.3 million childcare places for children under five. This ranges from childminders and nannies, to nurseries, crèches and preschools. Alongside the care provision, the sector has further career paths for students interested in working with children. Degree courses in speech therapy, social work, special education and playwork offer additional opportunities in the sector.
Upon achievement of this qualification learners will be able to work with early years children in a supervised role or access Higher Education as it provides an excellent base to move into children’s nursing, general nursing or midwifery as well as children’s psychology, youth work and sociology based courses.
A four day educational visit to Disneyland Paris ensures students experience the wider application of their studies beyond the classroom.
5 GCSEs 9 – 4. Applicants who do not meet these requirements will be considered on an individual basis.
The content of this qualification has been developed in consultation with higher education to ensure it supports progression towards higher study. In addition, employers and professional bodies have been involved, in order to confirm that the content is also appropriate for those interested in working in the sector. Students taking this qualification will study the following three mandatory units:
- Children’s Development
- Development of Children’s Communication, Literacy and Numeracy Skills
- Play and Learning.
Students will complete 50 hours of work experience in the sector.
Students are able to select one option unit, which supports their progression to specialised degree programmes within the sector and covers areas such as:
- Keeping Children Safe
- Children’s Physical Development, Care and Health Needs
- Working with parents and others in Early Years
- The Early Years Foundation Stage
The Examination Board for this course is BTEC Pearson.
As part of this course, students are required to plan and carry out activities in an early years setting. This will take place in the Nursery adjacent to our classroom.
