Weston College – Working in Childcare & Early Years

What this course offers

This free online course is for adults aged 19 and over who want to take their first step towards working with babies and young children. Whether you’re considering a career in childcare, returning to work, building your confidence, or developing your parenting skills, the course introduces the knowledge and skills needed to support children’s learning, development and wellbeing. You will gain childcare qualifications while building your understanding of early years care and education.

During the course, you will achieve:

• Level 1 Certificate in Childcare
• Entry Level 3 (E3) Certificate in Preparing for Further Learning or Employment in Childcare

Applicants should have a good standard of written and spoken English, equivalent to Level 1 or above.

What you’ll learn

Course topics include:

• Communicating with children
• Play activities for young children
• Sharing learning experiences
• Craft activities for young children
• Daily routines for young children
• Providing a safe and hygienic environment

You will also explore how children develop from an early age and the importance of communication in helping children feel safe, valued and understood. The course looks at how children develop through play, exploration and everyday experiences, and why play is important for learning, confidence and wellbeing.

The course also covers:

• Supporting children’s learning through age-appropriate technology
• Planning creative craft activities safely
• The importance of routines in a child’s development
• Healthy eating and nutrition for young children
• Safe food preparation and hygiene
• Creating safe, stimulating environments where children can flourish

Throughout the programme, you will gain practical knowledge that can be applied both at home and within childcare settings.

What happens next

On successful completion, you could progress to:

• Employment within the early years sector
• Further study in Early Years or Childcare
• Qualifications leading towards roles such as Nursery Assistant, Early Years Practitioner or Teaching Assistant

You will also explore a range of early years settings to understand the variety of environments and career opportunities available across the sector. In addition, you will have access to careers advice and guidance to support your next steps into employment or further study.