Level 1 Childcare Course in Barking and Dagenham. Classes run at Adult College of Barking and Dagenham, part-time during the day. The course runs over 13 weeks, making it manageable alongside other commitments. You'll cover the essentials of caring for children, including child development, safeguarding, and supporting children's wellbeing. This childcare qualification is a solid starting point if you're moving toward work in nurseries, schools, or youth settings.
Who this course is for
This course is for anyone who is 19+ and interested in this subject.
What you will learn
You'll explore how children grow and develop at different stages.
You'll learn the basics of safeguarding and keeping children safe.
You'll understand how to support children's physical and emotional wellbeing.
You'll look at how to communicate effectively with children and families.
You'll learn about the importance of play in children's learning.
You'll understand key responsibilities when working in a childcare setting.
How you will learn
You'll learn through classroom-based sessions at the college. Assessment is likely to include written tasks, observations, and portfolio work that you build up over the 13 weeks. Your tutor will guide you through each topic and support you as you progress.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. Adult College of Barking and Dagenham will confirm anything else you need before you start.
Where next
Jobs you could do
Nursery assistant: support children's learning and daily care in a nursery setting.
Playworker: lead play activities for children in after-school or holiday clubs.
Youth support worker: work with young people in community or youth centre roles.
Childminder assistant: support a registered childminder in a home setting.
Early years helper: assist qualified staff in a reception or pre-school class.
Classroom support assistant: help children in a primary school environment.
What you could study next
Level 2 Award in Childcare and Education: a natural next step that builds on this Certificate and takes you closer to working independently in a childcare setting.
Level 2 Certificate in Children's Care, Learning and Development: broader coverage of early years practice.
Level 3 Early Years Educator: the qualification recognised in statutory staffing ratios for nursery work, and the qualification to aim for if you want to take on a lead practitioner role.