Childcare

What will the course Cover?

This qualification develops the basic skills needed to care for a baby or young child. There is a choice of units – from setting a routine through to healthy lifestyles and the importance of play and learning.

Who is this course for?

Anyone who wants to develop parenting and life skills, including those with special educational needs or where English is an additional language

What skills, knowledge or experience do I need to start this course?

Basic computer skills, good reading at Level 1

What should I be able to do by the end of the course?

The Entry Level Certificate in Caring for a Child / Children, Level 1 in Caring for Children qualifications or the Level 1 Personal and Social Development qualifications as they share some units with this qualification. Credits achieved from these units can be transferred over and count towards the next qualification.

How is the course organised?

Face to face teaching and 1-1 Tutorial sessions Group work and presentations

What extra study or practice is expected outside of the class?

To gain the maximum benefit, you should read recommended books and websites, and practice the topics covered during the class each week – the more you practice, the faster your skills will improve. Computer access is available at Study Support sessions at Macbeth centre, or at your local library.

How will my progress be assessed?

Informal feedback but tasks will help you decide what else you need to learn or practise. The tutor may provide homework or specific tasks to assess your progress. There will be regular opportunities to review your progress through the class. You will submit a portfoilio evidence with your marked assignments. Evidence must be word processed

What can I expect to go on to after this course?

Learners who achieve this qualification could progress to: • Level 1 Award in Preparing to Work in Schools • Level 1 Award in Childcare • Level 1 Award in Health & Social Care

Are there any other costs and what do I need to bring?

A pen and notebook, a file folder to store handouts, and a USB key if you want to take your work home with you (your tutor can give you advice on purchasing USB keys).

What support is available?

You may wish to get additional help and guidance offered through the free Study Support Sessions at the Macbeth Centre. At these sessions you can access the internet, work on and print homework and assignments for your course, research, access a range of software, improve your typing and practice/review what you have covered in class. You will need to book a place on these sessions – ask your tutor how. Help with literacy or numeracy is available through the basic education programme and the ESOL programme offers help for speakers of other languages. The Learner Support Fund is a discretionary scheme, funded by the Skills Funding Agency, to assist learners who may be experiencing difficulties in paying for essential equipment/materials, travel costs, childcare, registration fees and other necessary expenses. These funds are only available to learners studying towards an approved qualification and who are on a low household income of under £20,000. Parental income will not be taken into consideration but the income of any spouse or partner will. Proof of low income will be required. Please discuss this with your tutor at interview or enquire at reception for full details of these funds. Details of all available support can be found on our website (hfals.ac.uk), in the Guide and the Student handbook, or from teaching or reception staff.