Caring for Children

Caring for Children

If you would like to work with children and want to learn more about how they grow, develop and learn, this course could be the perfect place to start. 

Through a mixture of practical activities and classroom learning, you’ll explore the fundamentals of childcare while building confidence and valuable life skills. 

Apply to Study Caring for Children
Find out more about this course

Course At A Glance

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Campus

St Marks Road, Derby or Coronation Street, Ilkeston 
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Study Level

Level 1 Diploma or Level 1 Certificate
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Course Type

Full-time Further Education
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Learner Age

16–18 (up to 24 with EHCP)

Is This Course Right For Me?

This course could be for you if you:

  • You enjoy spending time with children and helping others.
  • You want to build confidence and learn new skills.
  • You are interested in a future career in childcare, education or family support.
  • You want to learn how to work as part of a team and independently.
I Want to Study This Course

Feedback From Learners

“I have so much more confidence now and I love my childcare course. I am doing so much better in Maths and English, and I’m going to move onto the Health and Social Care course next.” 

Tiffany – Key College Learner 

Why Learners Love Key College?

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Small Class Sizes

We keep our class sizes small, so that you get the support you need.
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Tailored Learning

We adapt your learning plan to suit your individual learning style.
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Study Maths & English Alongside Your Course

No Maths and English GCSE? No problem, many of our learners study and retake their Maths and English GCSE alongside their course.
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Achievement Ceremonies

You will be invited to a celebration event upon the completion of your course to celebrate with friends, family and your coursemates.
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Calm and Friendly Atmosphere

Feeling overwhelmed? All our campuses have calming breakout rooms or outdoor spaces where you can take some time out if need a break from learning.
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Resources Provided

Including pens, folders and uniforms where appropriate, such as “chef whites”

Learner Support

At YMCA Key College, your success is our priority. If you have questions about your course, worries about your wellbeing, or simply need advice or reassurance, our approachable and knowledgeable teams are here to support you.

What Will I Learn?

Child Development

Child Development

Educating Young Children

Creating Positive Experiences for Young Children

Keeping Children Safe

Keeping Children Safe

Teamwork and Communication

Team Work Communication

Planning and Organisation

Planning and Organisation

Employability and Workplace Skills

Skills and Support for Work

What Qualification Will I Be Working Towards?

The qualification you work towards will depend on your current skills and experience. We’ll help you choose the right starting point. The YMCA Key College Caring for Children Course is offered at three levels:

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NCFE CACHE Level 2

Technical Occupational Entry for the Early Years Practitioner
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NCFE CACHE Level 1 Diploma

Caring for Children
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NCFE CACHE Level 1 Certificate

Caring for Children

Want to study something else?

Where will I study?

The Caring for Children course is delivered at YMCA Key College, St.Marks Road, Derby and Coronation Street, Ilkeston Campuses.

St Mark's Road, Derby

YMCA Key College St Marks Road

Coronation Street, Ilkeston

YMCA Key College Ilkeston Campus

FAQ's

What are the entry requirements?

You will need to be able to write at a Level 1 standard.

No Maths and English GCSE? No problem, you can retake your Maths and English GCSE alongside this course.

Do I need previous experience?

No. We offer different levels to suit a range of abilities and experience.

How do I apply?

Complete the online registration form – you will then be emailed the next steps.

Will I get a qualification?

Yes, successful completion leads to recognised qualifications.

Can I visit before applying?

Absolutely. We encourage learners and families to attend an open event or arrange a visit.

What could this course lead to?

After completing this course you could:

• Progress to a higher-level qualification.
• Move into an apprenticeship or employment.
• Explore careers within the childcare sector, such as a nanny, an activity club leader, a nursery apprentice.

How old do I have to be?

All YMCA Key College accredited vocational courses are for learners aged 16-18. If you have an EHCP, you can study with us until the age of 24.

If you are under 16 and looking for ‘Alternative Provision’ please contact us.

Ready to take the next step?

We’re here to help you find the right course and support you every step of the way.

Unlock Your Future