Cambridge National Level 2 in Child Development
Overview
The early years sector focuses on the learning, development and care of children from birth to five years.
In the UK, there are approximately 2 million childcare places for children under the age of five; and many different types of early years settings, ranging from childminders and nannies to nurseries, crèches and preschools.
Knowledge of child development is also important in a variety of occupations outside of childcare, for example, in healthcare roles such as pediatricians, psychologists, occupational therapists, and speech and language therapists.
Study of this sector in Key stage 4 will compliment GCSE study allowing you to apply practical application alongside conceptual study. The course complements other GCSEs such as biology or psychology.
It will also give you the opportunity to develop skills and techniques that enable you to explore the importance of play in children’s learning, and to support children’s development holistically.
Topics covered
RO57 exam unit
Health and well being for child development.
In this unit you will learn about the importance of both pre-conception health and creating conditions in which a child can thrive, including the prevention and management of childhood illnesses and creating a safe environment
RO58 coursework 1
Create a safe environment and understand the nutritional needs of children from birth to five years.
In this unit you will learn how to create a safe environment for children from birth to five years in childcare settings. You will investigate and choose equipment that is both suitable and safe for use and learn about their nutrition and dietary needs.
RO59 coursework 2
Understand the development of a child from one to five years.
In this unit you will learn the expected developmental norms for children from one to five years. You will use observation and research techniques and skills to investigate these developmental norms and explore your findings. You will also learn the importance of creating plans and providing different play activities to support children in their development.
Assessments
This course is split into 3 units:
Unit 1 - this is the external exam unit which you must pass to achieve a Level 2 qualification.
This exam will be sat in Year 11.
Unit 2 & 3 - these are two units of coursework that will be completed during Year 10 and 11.
There is a practical element to this work and students will need to complete all the work set.
FAQs
Where could this course take me?
When you have completed the qualification, you will have developed knowledge and understanding of child development, which will benefit you wherever you progress to next. The course will also help you to develop specific skills, such as planning and reviewing. The qualification offers a range of progression through further study – for example, to early years educator and teaching roles, pediatric nursing, occupational therapy, child psychology, special needs support, social work and play work.
Alternatively you may wish to join the childcare sector via an apprenticeship or as a trainee.
What other subjects go well with Child Development?
You could undertake a range of GCSEs alongside Childcare including GCSE Psychology or GCSE Art. It will entirely depend upon your personal interests and skill set.
What can I expect from this course?
Opportunities to explore job roles within the Childcare sector and to visit a range of settings
Develop knowledge and understanding linked to the Childcare industry
Develop a range of skills and qualities applicable to a variety of sectors and job roles
Develop practical and professional skills linked to Childcare
What additional activities are available on this course?
Trips and visits
Workshops with employers