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Caring for Children - Level 1
IMPORTANT
Applications are now open for academic year 2026/2027, but our full-time courses are still being finalised. If your chosen course changes, we'll contact you to offer a suitable alternative that matches your goals. For more information, call our Enquiries Team on 0808 100 3626.
What is the Caring for Children course?
The Caring for Children - Level 1 course is designed for students who want to develop the knowledge, practical skills and confidence needed to support the care, learning and development of young children.
This beginners course combines classroom-based learning with hands-on practical learning in our early years practice room alongside a work placement. You will build your understanding of child development, children's learning and the importance of creating safe, stimulating and inclusive environments for young children.
Who should study the Caring for Children qualification?
This course is ideal for school leavers aged 16-18 who are:
- Interested in working with babies and young children
- Looking to gain an introduction to the early years and childcare sector
Considering progression to a Level 2 Early Years qualification, apprenticeship or future career in childcare.
What will you learn on the Caring for Children course?
Throughout the course, you will develop essential knowledge and practical skills to help you develop a strong foundation in the early years sector.
Topics include:
- Understanding children's learning and development through play
- Introduction to forest schools
- Health and safety when working with young children
- Planning, preparing and delivering age-appropriate activities for young children
- Craft activities for young children
- Sharing learning experiences with children
- Supporting babies to play
- Children's play and leisure activities in the community
- Preparing for work placement.
When does the Caring for Children start?
This course starts in September 2026.
How is the Caring for Children course delivered?
The course is delivered through a combination of:
- Classroom-based learning
- Practical activities in our early years practice room
- Work experience.
This blended approach helps students develop both the practical and theoretical skills required for further study in the childcare and education sector.
- Entry requirements
This course is only available to those aged 16-18 years
- GCSE English Language or Maths at grade 3-9 plus four GCSEs at grade 3-9 (one must be English Language or Maths)
- You will need to attend an applicant event and have a successful DBS check
- You will also need a positive attitude to learning and commitment to good attendance at college and your work placement.
If you are not studying a traditional GCSE programme, we accept alternative qualifications like Functional Skills and vocational courses. If you are not planning on sitting GCSE exams, we can also support you with completing an English Language and Maths assessment. Please contact our admissions team for further details:
- 01623 413639
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- Assessment
You will be assessed by a range of methods including written assignments, booklets, posters and a report from your work placement.
- Progression
- Careers
- Additional costs
- Students will be required to wear a polo shirt for work placement days.
At West Notts College, our students benefit from excellent facilities and equipment across all campuses. However, some courses require students to purchase specific tools, equipment, or specialist clothing to fully participate in practical learning.
Visit our kit lists page to see what clothing and equipment you’ll need, and start preparing for your studies in September.
- Studying Education and Early Years at West Notts College
Discover what it is really like to study with us. Explore the full range of courses available, hear from our students, see the facilities you will train in, and discover the employer partners you could work with.
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Disclaimer
Whilst every effort is made to ensure the information on the website is correct, some details may be subject to change. West Nottinghamshire College reserves the right to make amendments to the courses, dates, fees or other details, and to make cancellations or changes if numbers are insufficient. In the unfortunate situation that we have to cancel a course we will refund your fees in full, but we regret we are not able to offer any refund if you withdraw from your course or fail to start, and you will be liable to pay any outstanding fees that may be due.