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Tlevels-nursery worker with child

Caring for Children - Level 1

Summary

This qualification encourages an understanding of the knowledge and the skills needed to care for young children. They cover children’s growth, learning and development

Next course dates

Start date Location Duration
02 Sep 2026
Bispham Campus
1 Year

Where can this subject lead?

Career progression

Progression to Level 2 Early Years Practitioner

Next steps at B&FC

n/a

Other study options

n/a

Employment Opportunities

working with children within the early years sector

Key information

Entry Requirements

Level 2's in English and Maths at GCSE

Qualification obtained

Certificate in Caring for Children

Fees and funding

Courses for learners who are 16-18 years old at the start of their course and resident in the UK are fully funded. You may also be entitled to further financial help to support your studies depending on your personal circumstances. For more details of these, please visit our page on Finance Support for School Leavers

If you are not a UK resident, we will confirm whether funding is available when we process your application. If not, you may be liable for course fees.

Extra costs and equipment

n/a

What will I learn?

The content of the qualification covers both personal development and the development and growth of babies and young children. You will explore: 

 • the value of a healthy lifestyle and diet • communication and learning • aspects of play • the importance of building children’s confidence • human lifespan from birth to the elderly.

Essential skills: English and Maths

All school leavers at B&FC are encouraged to continue developing their English and maths skills as higher ability in both these subjects is linked to long-term career success and increased earning potential - irrespective of how well you performed at GCSE. If, however, you achieve a GCSE Grade 3 or less in either subject, you will also have the opportunity to work towards re-sitting these to enhance your paper-based qualifications. This won’t delay your career journey because you will be undertaking this programme of study at the same time as your chosen subject.

Industry placement, field trips and guest speakers

Learners do not need to be working or undertaking practical placements to take this qualification. However, those students who wish to progress to Level 2 will be given the opportunity to gain some work experience in the early years sector

How will I learn?

The programme primarily focuses on theoretical knowledge but also includes practical hands-on elements to enhance learning and application. This flexible approach ensures that students can engage with the material in a way that best suits their needs. 

Interactive Lectures: Engaging lectures that encourage student participation and discussion. 

Group Work: Collaborative projects and activities that foster teamwork and communication skills. 

Practical Workshops: Hands-on sessions where students can apply theoretical knowledge in practical scenarios. 

Online Resources: Access to a wealth of online materials, including videos, articles, and interactive modules. 

These varied teaching methods ensure a comprehensive and dynamic learning experience. 

Expert tutors

You will be taught by a variety of industry experts to support your knowledge and understanding

How will I be assessed?

the value of a healthy lifestyle and diet • communication and learning • aspects of play • the importance of building children’s confidence • human lifespan from birth to the elderly.