Childcare

Students interested in working with children can study towards Pearson BTEC Level 1 Introductory qualifications in Caring for Children Under Five.

The pathway provides an introduction to childcare whilst developing wider communication, organisation and employability skills.

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Who is this course for?

This course is designed for young people who have an interest in childcare, early years education and supporting the development of young children. It is particularly suitable for students with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) who benefit from practical, hands-on learning in a supportive and structured environment.

No previous childcare experience is required. The course provides opportunities for students to explore their interests, develop essential skills, build confidence and gain an understanding of the responsibilities involved in caring for children under five.

What will I learn?

Students will explore the world of childcare and early years education through engaging, practical activities designed to develop their knowledge, creativity, confidence and independence.

Depending on the units studied, students will have the opportunity to develop skills in:

• Child Development – Understanding how young children grow, learn and develop through different stages of early childhood.

• Health and Safety – Learning how to create safe, secure and supportive environments for young children.

• Play and Learning – Exploring the importance of play and how different activities support children's learning and development.

• Creative Activities – Planning and preparing arts, crafts and other creative activities to encourage children's imagination and self-expression.

• Physical Development – Exploring activities that encourage movement, coordination and physical skills.

• Early Literacy and Numeracy – Developing activities that introduce young children to basic reading, communication, counting and number skills.

• Healthy Living – Understanding the importance of healthy eating, hygiene and promoting children's wellbeing.

• Communication and Relationships – Developing skills in communicating positively with children and understanding their individual needs.

• Planning Children's Activities – Learning how to select, organise and evaluate age-appropriate activities that support children's development.

Alongside these childcare skills, students will develop essential transferable skills, including teamwork, communication, organisation, problem-solving, time management and independence, helping to prepare them for further education and future employment opportunities.

After the course?

On successful completion, students may progress onto further vocational qualifications, including Level 2 courses in Childcare, Early Years Education or other suitable health and social care programmes.

The course provides a foundation for students interested in exploring careers within childcare and early years settings, including nurseries, preschools and other child-focused environments. Further qualifications and training would be required for many professional childcare roles.

Students will also develop valuable transferable skills, supporting their confidence, independence, employability and preparation for adulthood.

How will I be taught and assessed?

Students will be taught by specialist vocational tutors through practical activities, demonstrations, creative projects, role-play and supported learning sessions. Teaching is adapted to meet individual learning needs, allowing students to develop their skills, confidence and independence at their own pace.

Assessment is completed through practical tasks, coursework, projects, presentations and portfolios of evidence, giving students opportunities to demonstrate their knowledge and abilities in different ways. Activities may include planning safe childcare environments and designing age-appropriate learning experiences.

All units are internally assessed in accordance with Pearson's assessment criteria and graded at Pass, Merit or Distinction level. Appropriate support and reasonable adjustments are provided where required to ensure students can access learning and assessment while meeting the qualification requirements.

BTEC Level 1 Introductory in Caring for Children Specification