Free Level 1 Childcare Course in York

CostFREE
Duration1 year
LevelLevel 1
DeliveryClassroom based
Start1 Sep 2026
Study modeFull-time
AttendanceDaytime
Awarding bodyNCFE awarding body

About this course

Free Level 1 Childcare Course in York. Classes run at York College, full-time during the day. The course takes one year and covers the knowledge and skills needed to work with and care for children. You'll study topics such as child development, safeguarding, and supporting children's wellbeing. A free childcare course for adults and school leavers alike, it's a practical starting point for anyone considering a career working with young people. You'll have an initial assessment to make sure this is the right level for you.

Who this course is for

Please see the York College website for full details of this course: https://www.yorkcollege.ac.uk/

Entry requirements

Please see the York College website for full details of this course: https://www.yorkcollege.ac.uk/

What you will learn

  • You'll explore how children grow and develop from birth through early childhood.
  • You'll learn how to keep children safe and understand safeguarding responsibilities.
  • You'll study how to support children's physical, emotional, and social wellbeing.
  • You'll learn about the importance of play in children's learning and development.
  • You'll develop an understanding of working with families and carers.
  • You'll learn how to communicate effectively with children and the adults around them.

How you will learn

You'll learn through classroom-based sessions at York College, with a mix of taught lessons, group activities, and practical tasks. Assessment is likely to include written assignments, observations, and portfolio work that builds up evidence of your knowledge and skills throughout the year.

What you will need to bring

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

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Youth Support Worker: support young people in community or education settings.
  • Nursery Assistant: help care for and educate young children in a nursery.
  • Playworker: run play sessions in after-school clubs or holiday schemes.
  • Childcare Assistant: assist qualified staff in a childcare setting.
  • Learning Support Assistant: support children with additional needs in school.
  • Family Support Worker: help families access services and build parenting skills.

What you could study next

  • Level 2 Diploma in Early Years Practitioner: the next step in your childcare qualification, covering more in-depth child development and practice.
  • Level 3 Diploma in Early Years Educator: the qualification recognised in statutory staffing ratios for nursery work. Required to take on a senior childcare role.
  • Level 2 Certificate in Supporting Teaching and Learning: if you're interested in moving into a school-based support role.

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