Free Level 1 Childcare Course in Newcastle upon Tyne. Daytime childcare classes run at Nacro Education Centre Newcastle, with flexible study to fit around you. You'll cover child development, keeping children safe, health and safety, and how to support learning through play and activities for children aged 0 to 5. The course includes written assignments, practical tasks observed by your tutor, and at least two weeks of work experience. It typically takes one year to complete.
Who this course is for
Get Set! to start your journey into the world of childcare with Nacro Education Spalding. If you’re thinking about a career working with children, looking for something a bit different from mainstream college, and still want a nationally recognised certificate, our Get Set! for Childcare (Caring for Children) Level 1 is a great place to start. Crafted alongside industry experts, our Childcare Level 1 course will give you a broad introduction into the childcare sector. You will gain an understanding of stages of development through play whilst enjoying practical lessons including baking and forest school visits alongside written tasks and group discussions. Through work experience, practical lessons in small, personalised classes and one-to-one support we take you through the basics of childcare and show you how to make learning fun, keep children safe and involve them in group activities. Giving you the transferable skills and knowledge, you need to start your career, progress onto further levels of study, or pursue an apprenticeship. Study will take place in the centre with opportunities for external visits and trips throughout the course. At the end of the course, you’ll have the hands-on experience and confidence you need to take your next step.
What you will learn
You'll explore how children learn and develop from birth to age 5
You'll study how to keep children safe, including safeguarding principles
You'll learn health and safety practices in childcare settings
You'll discover how to plan and lead activities such as physical play, arts and crafts, and science activities
You'll understand healthy eating for young children and families
You'll develop skills for supporting babies and young children in play
You'll practise written communication skills through assignments and learning materials
How you will learn
Learning is classroom-based with hands-on practical activities alongside written work. Assessment includes written assignments such as booklets and posters, and practical skills observed directly by your tutor. You'll also complete at least two weeks of work experience in a relevant childcare setting, with support from the centre to arrange your placement.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. Nacro Education Centre Newcastle will confirm anything else you need before you start.
Where next
Jobs you could do
Nursery assistant: supporting early years staff in a nursery setting
Childminder's assistant: helping in a registered home childcare setting
Playgroup assistant: supporting activities in pre-school or play sessions
After-school club assistant: supervising and engaging children after school
Youth support worker: working with young people in community settings
Nursery practitioner: entry-level role in a day nursery or children's centre
What you could study next
Level 2 Diploma for the Early Years Practitioner: the next step in childcare, covering more depth in child development and practice
Level 2 Certificate in Supporting Teaching and Learning: if you're interested in moving into a school or education setting
Level 3 Early Years Educator: the qualification recognised in statutory staffing ratios for nursery work, required to take on greater responsibility in an early years setting