Free Level 1 Early Years Course in Birmingham. Classes run at Matthew Boulton College, part-time during the day, so you can fit study around other commitments. You'll need to be working at Entry Level 3 in literacy to join. Over 13 weeks, you'll build foundational knowledge of early years settings, including the roles and responsibilities of those who work in childcare. This free early years course for adults is a practical first step toward a career working with young children.
Who this course is for
This course is ideal for volunteers, parents, or carers who are interested in
working in childcare. You�ll gain a clear understanding of the roles and
responsibilities within early years settings and build foundational knowledge to
support your next steps.
Entry requirements
There are no specific prior learning requirements, but you should be working
at Entry Level 3 in literacy.
What you will learn
You'll understand the roles and responsibilities of staff in early years settings.
You'll learn how early years settings are organised and regulated.
You'll explore how young children learn and develop.
You'll understand how to support children's wellbeing and safety.
You'll learn about the importance of play in early childhood.
You'll gain awareness of how practitioners work with parents and carers.
How you will learn
You'll learn through classroom-based sessions at Matthew Boulton College. Assessment is through coursework and assignments completed during the course. There are no exams. Your tutor will guide you through each topic in class, and you'll build a portfolio of evidence to demonstrate your understanding.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. Matthew Boulton College will confirm anything else you need before you start.
Where next
Jobs you could do
Nursery assistant: support practitioners in a nursery room
Childcare volunteer: gain experience in an early years setting
Playgroup helper: assist at community or pre-school playgroups
After-school club assistant: support children aged 4 and above
Creche worker: care for young children in a supervised creche
What you could study next
Level 2 Award or Certificate in Childcare and Education: the next step toward paid childcare work and a stronger early years qualification.
Level 2 Early Years Practitioner: a recognised qualification for working in nurseries and pre-schools.
Level 3 Early Years Educator: the qualification recognised in statutory staffing ratios for nursery work, and the route toward leading a room or working unsupervised with children.
