Free Level 1 Childcare Course in Bishop Auckland. Classes run at Bishop Auckland College, full-time during the day. You'll study 12 units covering child development from birth, healthy eating in families, the role of play, and outdoor learning in settings like Forest Schools. The course includes placement experience in an early years setting, plus Functional Skills in Maths and English. You'll need a minimum of three GCSEs at grades 1 to 2 (E to F), an entry level qualification, or equivalent experience. The course takes one year.
Who this course is for
Childcare is a growing sector with thousands of job opportunities, leading to careers that can be extremely rewarding and diverse. Opportunities include working as a nanny, pre-school leader or youth worker, as well as many other possibilities. Whilst studying the CACHE Diploma in Caring for Children Level 1, we will help develop your skills to the highest level, whichever career path you choose.
Entry requirements
Minimum 3 GCSE's at grades 2 - 1 (E - F) or equivalent, or entry level qualification. Alternative qualifications and experience will be considered.
What you will learn
You'll learn how children develop from birth and how to meet their needs at different stages.
You'll study the importance of healthy eating within families and how it affects child wellbeing.
You'll explore how play supports learning and development in early years settings.
You'll learn how children learn in outdoor environments, including Forest School approaches.
You'll develop teamwork and communication skills for working with children and colleagues.
You'll gain practical experience through placement in a local early years setting.
You'll work toward Functional Skills qualifications in Maths and English.
How you will learn
You'll learn through classroom sessions at Bishop Auckland College, supported by practical placement experience in an early years setting. The course is made up of 12 units assessed through coursework and practical tasks. You'll also complete Functional Skills assessments in Maths and English as part of the programme.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. Bishop Auckland College will confirm anything else you need before you start.
Where next
Jobs you could do
Nursery assistant: supporting children's learning and daily care in a nursery setting.
Pre-school assistant: helping run sessions for children aged two to five.
Nanny: providing one-to-one childcare in a family home.
Playgroup worker: supporting play and early learning in community settings.
Youth Support Worker: working with young people in early years or community programmes.
Forest School assistant: leading outdoor learning activities for young children.
What you could study next
Level 2 Diploma in Early Years Education and Childcare: the natural next step after this course, building toward roles as an early years practitioner.
Level 3 Diploma for the Early Years Educator: the qualification recognised in statutory staffing ratios for nursery work. Completing Level 2 first is the usual route.
Functional Skills Maths and English Level 2: if you want to meet the GCSE-equivalent standard that many employers and further education courses require.
