Course Requirements

The level 2 Technical Award is designed for students who want an introduction to child development and care that includes a vocational element.

If you enjoy being with children and are interested in working with them as either a nursery nurse, Primary school teacher, social worker or in child Psychology then this is a good choice for you. It would also serve as another GCSE qualification for the future.

The qualification has 3 assessments externally set:

• One externally set examination

• Two NEAs; one is completed in Year 10 and the other in Year 11.

The qualification is graded as pass/merit /distinction and distinction*

The course content includes:

• The development of children from conception to birth.

• Child Development – key areas – physical, social, emotional, and intellectual.

• Factors that influence a child’s development.

• Everyday care routines and the type of activities that can support the development of independence.

• Early years provision - An introduction to working with children in a variety of settings.

• Expectations of the Early year’s practitioner.

• An understanding of the key roles and responsibilities in childcare settings.

• The observation of children and how we use them to plan age-appropriate activities to help progress development.

• Transitions – types and how they affect children.

• Legislation, Policies and procedures in the Early years setting.

Students opting for this course could go on to study at level 3 in –

• Early years Education and Care

• Health and Social Care

• Health Science

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