It is primarily designed for post-16 learners in further education who are: 

• Interested in working in a support role in the childcare sector 
• Returning to the workforce after a career break looking to refresh their knowledge and skills in the childcare sector. 

The course is delivered both in the classroom and within a childcare setting. This will consist of two days in placement and three days in college. Visiting speakers and experts will also come to the college to speak to you about their experiences within different sectors to include statutory, voluntary and third-party services. You will also have the opportunity to partake in Welsh language and cultural experiences to enhance employability.

Core Learning outcomes section Development (0-19 years of age) to include:

• 001-Principles and Values of Children’s Care, Play, Learning and Development (0-19 years of age) 
• 002- Health, Wellbeing, Learning and Development 
• 003 - Professional Practice as an Early Years and Childcare Worker 
• 004- Safeguarding Children 
• 005 - Health and Safety in Children’s Care, Play, Learning and Development

Theory (Unit 216) and Practice element (Unit 200- 204 mandatory and optional)  to include:

• Stages and general patterns of physical, intellectual (cognitive) language, emotional and social development in children from conception to 19 years. 
• How learning environments can assist and support children's health, wellbeing, development and needs from 0-19 years 
• The value and impact of legislation in relation to all types of children's play, learning and development settings in Wales. 
• The role and value of the social care, education and health services available in Wales to support children's care, health, well-being and development needs. 

This qualification has a core of underpinning knowledge, skills and understanding, and a range of options to reflect the breadth of pathways within this sector. Learner progression could include further study onto Level 3 CCPLD, an apprenticeship or employment. 

The level of progression will depend on the overall success achieved in the qualification.

Core units are assessed by internal and external assessments – three case studies (internally assessed) 

One multiple choice assessment (externally assessed) 

Theory – question paper (externally assessed) 

Practice – a set of structured tasks (four in all) which will be used to gather assessment evidence for the majority of the mandatory content. These tasks will consist of candidates being observed planning four separate opportunities/experiences; conducting those opportunities/experiences and evaluating each of these over a six month period. 

A portfolio of evidence to sit alongside the structured tasks. The purpose of the portfolio is to supplement the evidence collected from the structured tasks through evidence from day-to-day practice. 

Two GCSE grades at A*-C with English or Welsh first language and mathematics a minimum of an E grade with two additional GCSE grades D-G.

You will also require a satisfactory DBS check and character reference.

All learners will follow a skills pathway in which they will develop their literacy and numeracy skills for employment. Students who do not yet have the necessary GCSE grades at C or above will have additional teaching and support to study for either GCSE or Essential Skills Qualifications depending on prior GCSE grades. 

All learners are required to pay an administration fee of £25.00 prior to enrolment.

You will need to provide your own stationery, and may also incur costs if the department arranges educational visits