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Free Level 1 Childcare Course in Saint Austell

CostFREE
Duration1 year
LevelLevel 1
DeliveryClassroom based
Start8 Sep 2026
Study modeFull-time
AttendanceDaytime
Awarding bodyNCFE awarding body
Apply now →

About this course

Free Level 1 Childcare Course in Saint Austell. Classes run at Cornwall College St Austell, full-time during the day.

The course runs for one year and covers the skills, knowledge, and personal qualities needed to care for young children. You'll explore child development, communication, safeguarding, and the responsibilities involved in childcare settings. It's a strong introduction to working in early years environments.

You'll finish with an NCFE Diploma in Caring for Children.

Who this course is for

The Level 1 Diploma in Caring for Children is designed for learners who are interested in developing an understanding of the skills, knowledge, and personal qualities needed to care for young children. This course introduces key childcare concepts and helps learners build confidence, communication skills, and a sense of responsibility. This qualification focuses on developing essential life skills and provides a strong introduction for those learners considering a future career in childcare or early years education. While it does not qualify learners to work directly with children, it plays a valuable role in helping students prepare for their next steps, whether that is further training, an apprenticeship, or progression towards the world of work. It is an excellent starting point for those wishing to explore the childcare sector and confirm their career interests.

Entry requirements

Entry requirements for external applicants and school leavers • Two or more GCSEs at grade 2 or above, or successful completion of an Entry level qualification. Entry requirements for existing learners with the Cornwall College Group • Successful completion of previous course. Electively Home Educated Applicants • Students must have been out of education and home-schooled for at least 6 months prior to enrolling and registered with the Local Authority as home-schooled by the end of the

What you will learn

  • You'll explore how young children grow and develop.
  • You'll learn how to communicate effectively with children and their families.
  • You'll understand safeguarding and how to keep children safe.
  • You'll develop a sense of responsibility in childcare settings.
  • You'll build the personal qualities needed to support young children.
  • You'll gain an introduction to the skills used in nursery and early years environments.

How you will learn

You'll learn through classroom-based sessions at Cornwall College St Austell. The course uses a mix of taught lessons, group activities, and practical tasks. Assessment is through assignments and coursework that you complete throughout the year.

What you will need to bring

The centre will provide most materials. Cornwall College St Austell will confirm anything else you need before you start.

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Nursery Assistant, supports children's play and learning in a nursery setting.
  • Early Years Assistant, works alongside qualified staff in a preschool or nursery.
  • Childcare Worker, helps care for young children in a day nursery or creche.
  • Playgroup Assistant, supports children's activities in a community playgroup.

What you could study next

  • Level 2 Diploma for the Early Years Practitioner, the next step toward a recognised childcare qualification and a role counted in nursery staffing.
  • Level 3 Early Years Educator, the qualification recognised in statutory staffing ratios for nursery work, and the route toward leading a room or becoming a key person.
Apply on cornwall.ac.uk →
Apply now →

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