Free Level 1 Early Years Course in Darlington. Classes run at Adult Education at The Coleridge Centre, with daytime sessions designed to fit around other commitments. Over 12 weeks, you'll explore what it means to work in early years settings, looking at the values, responsibilities, and approaches that underpin good practice with children, young people, and families. This level 1 early years qualification is a starting point for anyone looking to move into childcare or youth work. You'll have an initial assessment to confirm the course is the right level for you.
Who this course is for
This course is for people wanting to work with children up to the ages of 5 years, gaining basic knowledge of childcare in early years environments.
Entry requirements
You must be aged 19+, reside in the Darlington or Teesside postcode areas (DL / TS), or within commuting distance of Darlington, have the right to live and work in the UK and lived in the UK or EU continuously for the previous three years before the start of learning.
What you will learn
You'll explore the role of adults who work in early years and childcare settings.
You'll examine your own values and beliefs in relation to working with children and families.
You'll learn about the needs and development of children and young people.
You'll develop an understanding of safeguarding and the duty of care in early years environments.
You'll look at how early years settings support children's learning and wellbeing.
You'll consider the importance of working with families and other professionals.
How you will learn
You'll learn through classroom-based sessions at Adult Education at The Coleridge Centre. Assessment is through coursework and written tasks completed during the course. There are no formal exams. Your tutor will guide you through the material in class, and you'll reflect on your own experiences and perspectives as part of your learning.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. Adult Education at The Coleridge Centre will confirm anything else you need before you start.
Where next
Jobs you could do
Youth support worker: supporting young people in community or school settings.
Nursery assistant: helping with the care and learning of young children.
Playworker: working in after-school clubs or holiday play schemes.
Childcare assistant: supporting qualified staff in nurseries or creches.
Family support worker: working with families in community or outreach roles.
Teaching assistant: supporting children's learning in primary school settings.
What you could study next
This Level 1 early years certificate is a step toward further study in childcare and education.
Level 2 Certificate in Early Years Practice: the next step toward working directly with children in a paid role.
Level 2 Diploma for the Early Years Practitioner: a more in-depth qualification covering hands-on childcare skills.
Level 3 Early Years Educator: the qualification recognised in statutory staffing ratios for nursery work, and the route to becoming a qualified early years educator.
