Level 1 Childcare Course in Birmingham. Evening childcare classes run at South & City College Birmingham Hall Green Campus, so you can study around work or other commitments. The course takes one year part-time and covers children's growth and development, play, healthy lifestyles, communication, and how to build children's confidence. You'll need GCSE Maths and English at grade 2 or above, or Entry Level 3 Functional Skills in both subjects. Assessment is tutor-led and includes practical tasks, charts, leaflets, and coursework assignments.
Who this course is for
This one-year course is designed for school leavers aiming to work in a childcare/early years setting. It provides an introduction to caring for children and will prepare learners for further learning. It covers children's growth, play, development and address the importance of participation in learning activities in order to improve a young child’s confidence.
Entry requirements
You must have achieved a Grade 2 in GCSE Maths and English. We also accept applications to this course from individuals with Entry 3 Functional skills in English and Maths.
What you will learn
You'll explore how babies and young children grow and develop.
You'll learn about the role of play in early childhood learning.
You'll study how diet and healthy lifestyles support children's wellbeing.
You'll understand how communication supports children's development.
You'll look at how participation in learning activities builds children's confidence.
You'll gain an introduction to working in childcare and early years settings.
How you will learn
Classes are classroom-based and blend hands-on practical sessions with theory. Your tutor will assess you throughout the course using a range of methods. These include designing charts and leaflets, and completing coursework assignments. There is no formal written exam.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. South & City College Birmingham Hall Green Campus will confirm anything else you need before you start.
Where next
Jobs you could do
Nursery assistant: supporting children's play and daily routines
Childcare worker: caring for young children in a nursery or creche
Early years helper: assisting qualified staff in early years settings
Playgroup assistant: supporting activities in community play settings
Youth Support Worker: working with children and young people in support roles
After-school club assistant: supervising and engaging children after school
What you could study next
This level 1 childcare qualification is a stepping stone into further study.
Level 2 Certificate or Diploma in Childcare: the next step toward working in a childcare setting in a recognised role.
Level 3 Early Years Educator: the qualification recognised in statutory staffing ratios for nursery and early years work. Most childcare careers require Level 3 as a minimum.
Functional Skills Maths or English (Level 1 or 2): if you want to strengthen your English or maths alongside your childcare studies.
