Examination Board: OCR
Watch the video to the right to find out about the Cambridge National in Child Development!
Students who have an interest in understanding how children develop physically and intellectually from conception to 5 years of age. They are considering a career working with children.
Good organisation, ICT and extended writing skills are recommended. Being able to work with a high degree of independence is a must as the child study requires a range of observations to be made outside school. They are required to write a detailed written report about their observations and the development of the child. In order to carry out the child case study, the student or their family must be able to arrange access to a child under the age of 5 to observe, plan and carry out specific tasks over a designated period. The academy cannot arrange this important component of the work which will be carried out as a series of homework tasks.
This course is suitable for students of all ability levels. Child Development is taught using a full range of teaching methods from independent learning and group work to the use of video clips and practical activities. Although largely theoretical, there are many opportunities for students to engage in practical tasks to enhance and consolidate learning. Students will be fully supported with templates to guide them through the Controlled Assessment tasks should they be needed. In addition, the department offers regular support sessions after school. Those students with aspirations of Grade 7 and above will be challenged with projects that have a high level of demand in order to fully demonstrate their abilities.
This is a GCSE equivalent qualification and focuses on the development of a child from conception to the age of five, developing knowledge and understanding in all aspects of child development. The course is assessed and graded using pass, merit and distinction grades.
The theory content is split into the following 5 main topics:
1. Reproduction and roles and responsibilities of parenthood
2. Understanding antenatal care and preparation for birth
3. Understanding postnatal checks, postnatal provision and conditions for development of the child
4. Understanding how to identify, manage and prevent childhood illnesses
5. Child safety
The written exam
50% of the final grade
1 hour 15 minutes written paper
The written paper requires students to answer five compulsory questions, including short answers, picture stimuli, structured and free-response formats
Non exam assessment
50% of the final grade in total:
1. Child Case study - 25% of the final GCSE grade
2. There are 3 controlled assessments worth 25% of the final grade. These tasks are set by the exam board
This course will benefit students considering a career working with children – health professionals (nursing, midwifery, social work); emergency services; primary school teachers; nannies and childcare professionals or those intending to progress to AS/A-levels and/or GNVQ/VCE in these career areas.