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
PCHP
Location
Dumfries and Stranraer Campus
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 8, candidates should already have qualifications in the sector that allow registration by the SSSC as a Practitioner at SCQF Level 7, for example: HNC in Childhood Practice SVQ Social Services: Children and Young People (SCQF Level 7) or equivalent.
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 8 is achieved on the successful attainment of five double credit mandatory units. In total, you will need to achieve 80 HN credits to achieve the full Group Award.
- Childhood practice: Enhanced professional practice
- Childhood practice: Leadership and team working
- Childhood practice: Integrated and collaborative working
- Childhood practice: Policy to practice
- Childhood practice: Pedagogical approaches
We have added extra credits with an introductory academic writing course as well as some relevant units to bring the credit value to 120 at SCQF level 8 over the two year duration of the course, to allow for progression to the PDA Childhood Practice Level 9.
Assessments
Assessment approaches are varied and include practical observations of work/placement, written assignments, portfolios of evidence, reflective accounts, projects and presentations.
Progression
Successful completion of the PDA Level 8 will allow participants to progress to the PDA Level 9 which would meet registration requirements for SSSC Lead Practitioner/Manager of Day Care for Children.
Career Prospects
The Childhood Practice PDA 8 & 9 qualifications 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
- Progression to PDA Level 9 Childhood Practice
- Enhance knowledge, skills, values and competencies working with children and young people in an early years or education setting
- Career progression
- Develop professional network