Free Level 1 Childcare Course in Harrow

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 Harrow. Classes run at Stanmore College, with daytime sessions that fit around other commitments. You'll need Level 2 ESOL or an equivalent qualification to enrol. The course covers child development, the role of a childcare practitioner, and how to support children's physical, emotional, and social growth. It takes one year part-time. A solid starting point if you're working toward a career as a nursery practitioner.

Who this course is for

The Early Years Caring for Children NCFE Diploma Level 1 provides a solid foundation in Childcare and Early Years education.

Throughout the course, you will explore key concepts about the role of a childcare practitioner, the responsibilities of a childcare practitioner, and the importance of working with children. You will gain an understanding of child development and learn how children grow physically, emotionally, and socially.

The course covers topics such as promoting healthy lifestyles for children, the significance of diet, exercise, and sleep, as well as good hygiene practices for children. You will learn how to support them through play and learning. There will be an emphasis on the importance of play in early childhood development and how to plan and encourage play-based learning for them.

Knowledge about child safety and wellbeing is also key components. You will learn how to identify hazards and prevent accidents in childcare settings.

This course will guide you to be able to build positive relationships with children and their families. You will be more confident about how to best support the children’s emotional wellbeing. You will become aware of different types of childcare settings, policies, and the importance of adhering to procedures.

Entry requirements

Level 2 ESOL (or equivalent qualification).

What you will learn

  • You'll explore the role and responsibilities of a childcare practitioner.
  • You'll learn how children develop physically, emotionally, and socially.
  • You'll understand how to promote healthy lifestyles for young children.
  • You'll gain knowledge of safeguarding and keeping children safe.
  • You'll learn how to support children's play and early learning.
  • You'll develop an understanding of working with families and other professionals.

How you will learn

You'll learn through classroom-based sessions at Stanmore College. Assessment is through coursework and assignments completed during the course. You'll build a portfolio of evidence that demonstrates your understanding of childcare practice. There are no formal written exams.

What you will need to bring

The centre will provide most materials. Stanmore College will confirm anything else you need before you start.

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Nursery assistant: support early years practitioners in a nursery setting.
  • Childcare worker: care for young children in a day nursery or creche.
  • Playgroup assistant: help run sessions for pre-school children.
  • After-school club assistant: support children in out-of-school care.
  • Nanny or childminder's assistant: work in a home-based childcare setting.

What you could study next

  • Level 2 Diploma in Early Years Practitioner: the next step toward working in a qualified childcare role.
  • Level 3 Early Years Educator: the qualification recognised in statutory staffing ratios for nursery work. Completing Level 2 first is the usual route.
  • Functional Skills English or Maths: useful alongside childcare study if you want to strengthen your applications or meet entry requirements for Level 2 and above.

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