Free Level 1 Childcare Course in Hammersmith and Fulham

CostFREE
Duration1 year
LevelLevel 1
DeliveryClassroom based
Start7 Sep 2026
Study modePart-time
AttendanceDaytime
Awarding bodyNCFE awarding body

About this course

Free Level 1 Childcare Course in Hammersmith and Fulham. Classes run at Hammersmith & Fulham College, part-time during the day, making it manageable alongside other commitments. This childcare qualification covers the skills and knowledge needed to care for young children. The course runs over one year. You'll build a portfolio of coursework and complete practical assignments. At enrolment, you'll have an interview to confirm the course is right for you, and you may also complete an initial assessment in English and maths.

Who this course is for

Adults (19+)

Entry requirements

We recommend that you have:

FourGCSEs at grade 2 or above, including English and maths or Functional Skills in English and maths at Entry Level 3

At enrolment, you will have an interview with our course tutors to ensure the course is right for you. You may also need to complete an initial assessment in English and maths, depending on your grades.

What you will learn

  • You'll develop knowledge of how to care for young children safely and responsibly.
  • You'll learn about child development and the needs of young children.
  • You'll build practical skills relevant to childcare settings.
  • You'll understand safeguarding and the duty of care in working with children.
  • You'll explore how to support children's learning and wellbeing.
  • You'll prepare a portfolio that demonstrates your skills and progress throughout the course.

How you will learn

You'll learn in dedicated classrooms through planned lessons and workshops. Your tutors will mark all your work, and you'll build a portfolio of coursework to show your progress. Practical assignments are included, and you'll receive feedback from tutors throughout. Some elements, such as Functional Skills, may also involve external exams.

What you will need to bring

The centre will provide most materials. Hammersmith & Fulham College will confirm anything else you need before you start.

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Nursery assistant: support children's play and daily routines in a nursery setting.
  • Childcare worker: care for young children in a range of early years settings.
  • Playworker: lead activities for children in after-school or holiday clubs.
  • Youth support worker: assist young people in community or educational settings.
  • Nursery practitioner: entry-level role supporting qualified staff in nurseries.
  • Teaching assistant: support children's learning in a primary school classroom.

What you could study next

This level 1 childcare qualification is a stepping stone toward further study in the sector. A natural next step is a Level 2 qualification in childcare or early years, such as a Level 2 Certificate or Diploma in Early Years Practice. From there, a Level 3 Early Years Educator qualification is the level recognised in statutory staffing ratios for nursery work, opening the door to roles with greater responsibility.

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