Early Years

Have you ever thought of working in childcare but don’t know where to start? We are offering you the opportunity to start a career pathway that is exciting, challenging and rewarding.

This preparation for childhood practice will help you to develop the skills, knowledge and positive attitude needed to prepare you to work in the Early Learning and Childcare sector. 

For entry to this course, you'll need:

• A real interest in supporting children's learning and development.
• Five relevant National 5s including English and ideally Maths or equivalent.

OR

• A relevant course at SCQF Level 5 or equivalent, such as NC Early Education and
  Childcare
• Eligible for PVG
• An interview with us
• A satisfactory reference

Even if you think that you don't meet the entry requirements but can show life skills
and a real commitment to study and are passionate about starting your journey to a career in
childcare, please apply and we can discuss how we can support you.

If you do not meet the entry requirements for this course you may be offered an alternative
course with us.

Our course is designed to provide you with a comprehensive understanding of Early Learning and Childcare. You will learn about legislation, National documentation and theories that guide our daily practice. Throughout the course you will develop valuable qualities and skills including using reflective practice. Holistic development will be explored in-depth along with factors which may influence and impact this. Initiatives such as Bookbug and Peep are introduced during this course, and you will discover how to lead and support children’s learning through play experiences

Throughout this course will learn about include:

• How to support the development of Children & Young People in an Education Setting
• How to support Language, Literacy, and Numeracy
• Protecting and Promoting Children’s Rights
• Providing an Inclusive Curriculum in Childhood Practice

Lessons are delivered face to face in class to support developing your knowledge and understanding of how to support children’s learning and development.

Assessments are essay/reports, presentations and a journal.

You may have the opportunity to put your learning into practice by participating in our practical community sessions where you will be supported to plan, deliver and evaluate play activities for children and families.

You may have the opportunity to participate in a workplace experience, which would require you to undertake a criminal record check under the PVG scheme. 

After successful completion of this course, you may have the opportunity to move onto an HNC course such as:

• HNC Childhood Practice

• Meta Skills – You will develop an understanding of skills for life and work
• Transferable Skills – You will develop Research Skills & Digital Skills
• Technical Skills - You will develop the confidence to support children and families in the community whist planning a range of engaging play experiences. 

Placement opportunities in Ayr Campus will be within South Ayrshire

Placement opportunities for Kilmarnock Campus will be within East Ayrshire

Placement opportunities for Kilwinning campus will be within North Ayrshire 

After completing your HNC Childhood Practice, you can articulate to: 

• PDA childhood Practice
• HND Childhood Practice 
• UWS : BA Childhood Studies