Level 1 Childcare Course in Maidenhead. Classes run at Berkshire College of Agriculture, full-time during the day. You'll need three GCSEs at grade 2 or above and a reference to apply. The course runs for 35 weeks and covers child growth and development, play, health and safety, healthy living, and practical activities for young children. It's a solid starting point if you're heading toward a career working with children.
Who this course is for
This is a Level 1 course that introduces an understanding of the skills required to work with children. On completion, you could progress to a Level 2 Certificate in an Introduction to Early Years, Education and Care or Level 2 Certificate in Supporting Teaching and Learning. You will cover a wide range of topics including: Growth and development of young children Understanding play Health and safety Healthy living and diets Practical activities to explore with young children
Entry requirements
Three GCSEs at grade 2 or above and a reference from school or previous course tutor.
What you will learn
You'll explore how young children grow and develop physically, socially, and emotionally.
You'll learn how play supports children's learning and wellbeing.
You'll understand health and safety responsibilities when working with children.
You'll study healthy living and nutrition for young children.
You'll plan and explore practical activities suitable for young children.
How you will learn
You'll study in a classroom at Berkshire College of Agriculture, attending full-time during the day across 35 weeks. Learning is hands-on and topic-based, covering each subject area through taught sessions and practical activities. Assessment is built into the course through the work you produce and demonstrate across each unit.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. Berkshire College of Agriculture will confirm anything else you need before you start.
Where next
Jobs you could do
Youth Support Worker: supporting young people in community or educational settings.
Nursery Assistant: helping children learn and play in early years settings.
Playworker: leading activities for children in play or after-school clubs.
Childcare Assistant: supporting qualified staff in nurseries or childminding settings.
Teaching Assistant (entry-level): supporting learning in primary school classrooms.
What you could study next
Level 2 Certificate in an Introduction to Early Years, Education and Care: the natural next step, going deeper into childcare practice.
Level 2 Certificate in Supporting Teaching and Learning: if you're drawn toward schools and classroom support roles.
Both are named by the provider as direct progression routes from this Level 1 childcare qualification, and either can open the door to further Level 3 study in early years or education.
