Free Early Years Course in Southampton. Classes run at The Masonic Lodge, full-time during the day. This is a three-week course designed for adults aged 19 or over who want to work in early years settings. You'll cover the knowledge and practical skills that nursery and childcare employers look for. The course is employer-aligned, so what you learn reflects what the job actually involves. It suits people returning to work, career changers, and those currently unemployed. Complete the course and earn your early years certificate.
Who this course is for
Our Skills Bootcamps provide practical, employer-aligned training for adults aged 19+ looking to upskill, retrain, or step into a new profession. They’re an ideal route for adults returning to work, self-employed individuals, career changers, and those currently unemployed.
What you will learn
You'll learn the principles of child development in the early years.
You'll explore how to support children's play, learning, and communication.
You'll understand safeguarding responsibilities and how to keep children safe.
You'll learn about health, hygiene, and safe practice in childcare settings.
You'll develop knowledge of how to work with parents and carers.
You'll explore equality, diversity, and inclusion in early years environments.
How you will learn
You'll learn through classroom-based sessions at The Masonic Lodge. Teaching is practical and employer-aligned, with activities and discussions that reflect real childcare settings. Assessment is likely to include short written tasks and practical exercises completed during the course. The centre will confirm the exact assessment format before you start.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. The Masonic Lodge will confirm anything else you need before you start.
Where next
Jobs you could do
Nursery practitioner, supporting children's learning and daily care
Nursery assistant, working in a private or state nursery setting
Childcare worker, providing care in a day nursery or creche
Early years teaching assistant, supporting staff in Reception classes
Playworker, leading activities in after-school or holiday clubs
Childminder's assistant, supporting a registered childminder at home
What you could study next
Level 2 Certificate in Early Years Practitioner: a recognised qualification for working in nursery and childcare settings, and a common next step after a short introductory course.
Level 3 Diploma for the Early Years Educator: the qualification referenced in statutory staffing ratios for nursery work. Employers and Ofsted recognise it for room leader and senior practitioner roles.
Level 3 Award in Paediatric First Aid: often required or preferred by early years employers alongside a childcare qualification.
