Introduction
Dumfries and Galloway College in partnership with Dumfries and Galloway Council are offering the Childhood Practice Professional Development Award Level 8 & 9. PDA Level 9 is a recognised qualification that meets the SSSC (Scottish Social Service Council) to register as Lead Practitioner/Manager in Early Learning & Childcare.
Course code
PCPR
Location
Varies
Duration
The programmes will be delivered on a part-time hybrid delivery, one day per week (day to be confirmed) with online and in person learning available at Dumfries & Stranraer Campus.
The course is part time over 2 years.
Entry Requirements
It is suitable for staff already working within the early years sector who may wish to consider progressing their career in the future.
For entry into PDA Level 9, candidates should already have completed the Level 8 qualification or have sufficient transferable credits.
Candidates are required to have a minimum of 2 years’ experience working in an early learning or education setting.
Information and Interview Session Requirements
Candidates would apply via the college website and provide a supporting statement outlining how they meet the entry requirements including details of their experience and professional development.
Course Content
The Childhood Practice PDA Level 9 is achieved on the successful attainment of five double credit mandatory units and 2 additional units. In total, you will need to achieve 120 HN credits to achieve the full Group Award. Mandatory units include
- Childhood Practice: Leadership and Management
- Developing Services for Children and Young People
- Children’s Rights: Equality, Diversity and Inclusion
- Participatory Partnerships: Working with Families
- Childhood Practice: Leadership and Management (Workplace Practice)
Assessments
Assessment approaches are varied and include practical observations of work/placement, written assignments, portfolios of evidence, reflective accounts, projects and presentations.
Career Prospects
The Childhood Practice PDA 9 qualification will allow registration to SSSC as a Lead Practitioner/Manager so students would be able to apply for Management roles in Early years.
Additional funding information
You should apply to the Student Awards Agency for Scotland (SAAS). Please visit their website: saas.gov.uk for further details.
Selling Points
- Meet SSSC registration requirement a Lead Practitioner/ Manager
- Enhance knowledge, skills, values and competencies working with children and young people in an early years or education setting
- Career progression
- Develop professional network