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Free Level 1 Childcare Course in Wakefield

CostFREE
Duration1 year
LevelLevel 1
DeliveryClassroom based
Start30 Sep 2026
Study modeFull-time
AttendanceDaytime
Awarding bodyNCFE awarding body
Apply now →

About this course

Free Level 1 Childcare Course in Wakefield. Classes run at Wakefield College, with daytime study across a full year. You'll cover how babies and young children grow, learn, and develop, alongside healthy eating, play-based learning, and using technology in early years settings. Work placement opportunities are available as part of the programme. There are no formal entry requirements, so a level 1 childcare qualification is within reach whether you're new to the sector or returning to education.

Who this course is for

This study programme is designed to give you the knowledge and skills needed to support the care and education of babies and young children in a day nursery or school.

The programme is aimed at learners who are thinking of working in childcare either in a nursery or a school or who are aiming to progress into higher education to complete an early years or primary education degree.

Please Note: Work placement opportunities will be available at all Levels.

Your learning will take place through a wide range of activities including written assignments (including leaflet and poster making), practical activities, discussions, visiting speakers, tutor presentations, group work, workshops, creating materials and resources, and practical experience in both the classroom and if appropriate within an Early Years setting.

Entry requirements

No formal entry requirements.

What you will learn

  • You'll explore how young children grow and develop from birth through early childhood.
  • You'll study how play supports learning and development in early years settings.
  • You'll learn about healthy eating and nutrition for babies, young children, and families.
  • You'll look at how technology can be used appropriately with young children.
  • You'll gain practical experience in classroom activities and, where appropriate, in an early years setting.
  • You'll develop skills to support children's care and education in nurseries and schools.

How you will learn

Learning takes place through written assignments, practical tasks, group work, discussions, workshops, and tutor presentations. You may also create resources such as leaflets and posters. Assessment methods include producing written materials, answering questions, and completing practical and presentation tasks in the classroom. Work placement opportunities are available alongside your classroom study.

What you will need to bring

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

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Nursery assistant: supporting children's play and daily routines in a nursery
  • Nursery practitioner: caring for and educating young children in a day nursery
  • Early years classroom assistant: supporting teachers in a primary school setting
  • Playgroup worker: helping run sessions for pre-school age children
  • Childminder's assistant: supporting a registered childminder with daily care

What you could study next

  • Level 2 Diploma for the Early Years Practitioner: the next step toward working more independently in a nursery or school setting.
  • Level 3 Early Years Educator: the qualification recognised in statutory staffing ratios for nursery work, and a route toward senior practitioner roles.
  • Foundation Degree in Early Years or Primary Education: for those aiming toward a degree-level qualification in education or early childhood studies.
Apply on heartofyorkshire.ac.uk →
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