Pathway to Early Learning and Childcare (NQ) @ SCQF Level 5
Introduction
If working with children is a career you have a real desire to pursue, this is an ideal introductory programme to develop the knowledge, skills, and qualities that you will need to launch your journey into an exciting career pathway.
Successful completion of the programme provides a pathway for you to:
Successful completion of the programme provides a pathway for you to:
- Progress to a first level professional qualification such as the NC in Early Education and Childcare at SCQF level 6
- Or pursue the PDA in Educational Support Assistant @SCQF level 6Or seek employment as a Modern Apprentice in the sector.
Course code
JS5EC
Location:
Stranraer
Duration
Attendance: This is a full-time programme. You will attend college for a minimum of 2.5 days per week. There may be potential to move towards a blend of class and online classes as the year progresses. (This can be subject to change) There may be an opportunity to attend a work experience placement in addition to this time on your college course.
You must be able to attend all class lessons.
You must be able to attend all class lessons.
Entry Requirements
This course will be suitable for you if you are:
You will need to demonstrate a real interest and motivation to work with children and families in an early years’ setting.
Please make sure to answer the Supporting Information Questions on the application form, with as much detail as possible. This will demonstrate your commitment to the course.
You need to be 16 years or above by the end of September 2023
Applications are encouraged from mature students who do not possess formal qualifications but have appropriate understanding and skills to meet the academic demands of the course.
A satisfactory Protecting Vulnerable Groups (PVG) check is also required to enable participation in placement.
- A progressing college academy student who has successfully completed our Early Learning and Childcare course at SCQF level 5 and have attained a pass in the following
- a national 4 qualification in maths or numeracy, and English or communication at National 5 level, and one other national 5 qualification.
- A school leaver who wishes to pursue a career in early learning and childcare and has attained national 4 qualifications in maths or numeracy, and 3 National 5 passes one of which must be in English or communication.
- An adult returning to education who wishes to enhance your career prospects in the early years sector.
- An adult who has gained Peers Early Education Partnership (PEEP) learners – 4 credits @ level 4.
You will need to demonstrate a real interest and motivation to work with children and families in an early years’ setting.
Please make sure to answer the Supporting Information Questions on the application form, with as much detail as possible. This will demonstrate your commitment to the course.
You need to be 16 years or above by the end of September 2023
Applications are encouraged from mature students who do not possess formal qualifications but have appropriate understanding and skills to meet the academic demands of the course.
A satisfactory Protecting Vulnerable Groups (PVG) check is also required to enable participation in placement.
Information and Interview Session Requirements
You may be invited to attend an interview as part of our selection process. You need to confirm you will attend once should you be offered an appointment.
Your interview may be virtual either through TEAMS or by phone, or you may be invited to come into college.
During the interview session, we will ensure your application meets the entry requirements and your aspirations and career plan are appropriate for the course and the level of course you have applied for. It is therefore important that you prepare well for this. Please come prepared to either write about or discuss the following:
‘I wish to pursue a career in in early learning and childcare because...’
Course Content
You will study a range of topics which include both theoretical and practical subjects. The theory will be centred on, for example, the developing child, the needs of children, children’s rights and protection and of course the theory of play. You will also have practical units such as play in practice, first aid, and practical skills and qualities needed to work within a childcare setting. Your classes will include a mixture of online classes, face to face on college campus, and there will be an element of directed self-study.
Assessments
All topics delivered on this course are assessed. A range of assessment strategies are used throughout the course, as an example you may be asked to produce a report, or you may build up a portfolio of evidence of your work, or you may be observed carrying out a practical task, among others.
Progression
Successful completion of the programme provides a pathway for you to:
- Progress to a first level professional qualification such as the NC in Early Education and Childcare at SCQF level 6
- Or pursue the PDA in Educational Support Assistant @SCQF level 6
- Or seek employment as a Modern Apprentice in the sector.
Career Prospects
A pass on this course may provide the opportunity to progress on to the following:
- the NC Early Education and Childcare
- the PDA in Educational Support Assistant
- or Vocational Studies in Childcare/Care
Additional funding information
You may be eligible for Bursary or EMA (Education Maintenance Allowance) funding for this course. Please contact a member of the funding team for details.
Selling Points
Work placement experience available in a childcare setting depending on covid restrictions
First steps entry programme to early learning and childcare.
Variety of career prospects within the sector
First steps entry programme to early learning and childcare.
Variety of career prospects within the sector