Preparing to Work in Schools (Childcare Foundation Pathway) - Level 1
Summary
Are you passionate about making a difference in the lives of children and young people? This course equips you with the foundational knowledge and skills needed to thrive in a school environment. This course covers essential areas such as supporting the well-being of children and young people, understanding their development, and effective communication within a school setting. Ideal for those considering a career in education, this qualification prepares learners for further learning and training while developing an understanding of the teaching and learning environment in schools.
Looking to build a career in Teaching, Early Years or Health & Social Care?
Entry Requirements
Technical Entry Requirements:
- Age: 19 years or over (19+)
Additional Non-Qualification-Based Entry Requirements:
- DBS Check: While a DBS check is not required for enrolment on the course. However, it is essential for those seeking employment working with children and young people. This check is typically arranged through your employer or placement provider.
- English and Maths: A basic level of proficiency in English and Maths is recommended to support your learning and understanding of the course content.
These entry requirements ensure that students are adequately prepared for the course and any subsequent employment opportunities in settings involving children and young people.
Where can this subject lead?
Career progression
This course is the starting point of the Childcare Foundation Pathway, designed for learners who are new to working with children and young people and wish to explore education and childcare settings.
It provides an introductory understanding of school environments, professional responsibilities and effective communication, helping learners make informed decisions about future study and career routes.
Learners will progress through the Childcare Foundation Pathway, building confidence and knowledge before moving into further childcare, early years or school‑based qualifications.
Childcare Foundation Pathway Progression
- NCFE L1 Award Preparing to Work in Schools
- NCFE L1 Certificate Wellbeing
- NCFE L1 Award Caring for Children
- NCFE L1 Diploma Caring for Children (RPL)
- NCFE L2 Certificate Understanding Childhood Illnesses
Successful completion of this pathway supports progression into Early Years, Childcare and Teaching Assistant pathways, including further Level 2 and Level 3 qualifications and entry‑level roles within schools, nurseries and childcare settings.
Next steps at B&FC
On successful completion of this qualification, learners can progress onto the following B&FC pathways:
- Child and Youth Support Pathway
- Teaching Assistant Mainstream Pathway
- SEND Teaching Assistant Pathway
Employment Opportunities
Upon completing this course, learners may be able to apply for entry‑level roles such as:
- School Classroom Volunteer
- School Support Assistant (entry level / non‑qualified)
- Learning Support Volunteer
- Teaching Assistant Volunteer
- After‑School Club Assistant
- Breakfast Club Assistant
- Lunchtime Supervisor
- Playworker Assistant
- Childcare Assistant (with supervision)
Key information
Qualification obtained
Award in Preparing to Work in SchoolsFees and funding
Whilst many adult courses are fully funded for 19+ learners, funding can depend both on the course itself and/or the learner's personal circumstances, including their current income levels and previous qualifications.
To find out if you might be eligible for full or partial funding or for an Advanced Learner Loan (Level 3 qualifications only), please visit our Financial Support section. You will also find more information here about additional financial support you might be entitled to such as help to cover childcare and equipment costs.
Extra costs and equipment
There are no additional equipment costs associated with this course.
What will I learn?
This qualification is designed to provide you with the essential knowledge and skills needed to work effectively with children and young people. The mandatory units cover a range of important topics:
- Understand Schools as Organisations
- Understand How to Keep Children and Young People Healthy, Safe and Well
- Understand How to Communicate with Children, Young People, and Adults
Industry placement, field trips and guest speakers
There is no mandatory work placement required for this course, making it accessible to learners who may not currently be working or volunteering in an educational setting. However, gaining voluntary or part-time experience in a relevant environment such as a school, could significantly enhance your understanding and employability.
At Blackpool and The Fylde College, we enrich your learning experience through guest speakers and employer engagement events. These sessions feature professionals from across educational sectors, including representatives from local schools.
These guest lectures and live discussions provide valuable insights into real-world practice, current challenges in education, and emerging movements in the sector. They also offer opportunities to ask questions, build connections, and gain a clearer understanding of the diverse career paths available in education.
How will I learn?
Our courses are delivered through a blended learning approach, combining the flexibility of digital resources with the benefits of face-to-face teaching. While some elements of the course may be accessed online, this is not an online-only course you will be required to attend in-person sessions at scheduled times throughout the programme.
The programme primarily focuses on theoretical knowledge but also includes practical hands-on elements to enhance learning and application. This flexible approach ensures that learners can engage with the material in a way that best suits their needs.
Interactive Lectures: Engaging lectures that encourage learner participation and discussion.
Group Work: Collaborative projects and activities that foster teamwork and communication skills.
Practical Workshops: Hands-on sessions where learners can apply theoretical knowledge in practical scenarios.
Online Resources: Access to a wealth of online materials, including videos, articles, and interactive modules.
This flexible yet structured approach ensures that you receive the guidance, peer interaction, and practical experience needed to succeed in the sector.
Expert tutors
All tutors involved in the delivery of adult courses within the College are approved to teach the subjects and modules they deliver.
Our recruitment process ensures that tutors delivering a given programme are suitably qualified and, where appropriate, possess relevant technical and industrial experience and professional practice. The aim of this is to enrich our students’ learning experience and enable them them to get the inside track on what working in the industry is really like.
How will I be assessed?
Learner’s will be assessed through a combination of methods designed to evaluate their understanding and practical application of the course material. The assessment process is structured to ensure that learner’s can demonstrate their knowledge and skills effectively.
Assessment Methods:
- Portfolio of Evidence: Throughout the course, learner’s will compile a portfolio of evidence that showcases their learning and achievements. This portfolio will include various forms of assessment such as written assignments, case studies, and practical tasks.
- Written Assignments: These assignments will test learner’s' understanding of theoretical concepts and their ability to apply this knowledge to real-world scenarios.
- Case Studies: Learner’s will analyse specific situations, demonstrating their problem-solving skills and ability to provide appropriate support.
Grading:
- The course is assessed on a pass or fail basis. Learner’s must meet all the assessment criteria for each unit to achieve a pass.
- The portfolio of evidence is a crucial component of the assessment process, as it provides comprehensive proof of the learner's competence and understanding.