ICTQual Level 1 Award in Early Learning and Childcare

The ICTQual Level 1 Award in Early Learning and Childcare is an introductory qualification designed for individuals who want to begin a career in early years education and childcare. It provides a simple and clear understanding of how to support young children in their early stages of growth and development, especially in settings such as nurseries, preschools, and childcare centres.

This course introduces learners to key areas such as child development, basic care practices, and the importance of creating safe, supportive, and positive learning environments. It also helps learners understand how children aged 0–5 learn and develop emotionally, socially, and physically. The qualification focuses on building awareness of safeguarding, safety, and the role of early years professionals in supporting children’s well-being.

By completing this qualification, learners gain essential knowledge and confidence to take their first step into the childcare sector. It is ideal for those interested in roles such as nursery assistant or childcare support worker and provides a strong foundation for further study and career growth in early childhood education and care.

Course overview

Level 1 Award in Early Learning and Childcare

To enrol in ICTQual Level 1 Award in Early Learning and Childcare, learner must meet the following entry requirements:

  • Age Requirement: Learners must be at least 16 years old at the time of registration.
  • Educational Background: There are no formal educational prerequisites, making this course suitable for beginners or those returning to education. Basic literacy and numeracy skills are beneficial to complete course activities and assessments.
  • Work Experience: No prior childcare experience is required, although learners with experience working with children may find the course content easier to relate to.
  • English Proficiency: Learners should have sufficient English language skills to understand course materials, complete written assignments, and communicate effectively in a childcare setting.

This qualification, the ICTQual Level 1 Award in Early Learning and Childcare, consists of 6 mandatory units.

  1. Introduction to Early Childhood Education and Care
  2. Health and Safety in Early Years Settings
  3. Child Development
  4. Promoting Positive Relationships
  5. Understanding Early Years Legislation and Regulations
  6. Observation and Record Keeping

Here are the learning outcomes for each study unit of Level 1 Award in Early Learning and Childcare:

Introduction to Early Childhood Education and Care

  • Understand the fundamental principles and purpose of early childhood education and care.
  • Recognise the role of early years practitioners in supporting children’s learning and development.
  • Explore different educational approaches and settings for early years care.
  • Develop awareness of the importance of providing a safe, stimulating, and nurturing environment for children.
  • Identify ways to support the holistic development of children in early years settings.

Health and Safety in Early Years Settings

  • Understand key health and safety principles relevant to early years environments.
  • Identify potential hazards and risks that may affect children, staff, and visitors.
  • Apply safe practices to prevent accidents, injuries, and the spread of infections.
  • Demonstrate awareness of emergency procedures and first aid responsibilities.
  • Maintain a clean, safe, and secure environment while promoting children’s wellbeing.

Child Development

  • Recognise the stages of physical, emotional, social, and cognitive development in children.
  • Understand factors that can influence child development, including health, family, and environment.
  • Identify signs of developmental delays or concerns and respond appropriately.
  • Support children’s learning through age-appropriate activities and play.
  • Reflect on how individual differences affect learning and development in early years settings.

Promoting Positive Relationships

  • Develop effective strategies for building trusting and respectful relationships with children.
  • Understand the importance of positive interactions in supporting children’s social and emotional development.
  • Engage with families and carers to create a collaborative approach to childcare.
  • Promote inclusivity, empathy, and respect in all relationships within the early years setting.
  • Respond appropriately to children’s needs, behaviour, and emotional wellbeing.

Understanding Early Years Legislation and Regulations

  • Understand the key legislation, policies, and standards governing early years practice.
  • Recognise the importance of safeguarding, child protection, and welfare requirements.
  • Apply regulatory frameworks to ensure compliance in daily practice.
  • Appreciate the role of professional codes of conduct and ethical standards in childcare.
  • Demonstrate understanding of how legislation impacts children, families, and practitioners.

Observation and Record Keeping

  • Develop skills to observe and monitor children’s behaviour, learning, and development.
  • Record observations accurately, objectively, and in line with best practices.
  • Use observations to plan activities and support individual learning needs.
  • Maintain confidentiality and professional standards in record keeping.
  • Analyse information from records to improve care and developmental outcomes.


The ICTQual Level 1 Award in Early Learning and Childcare provides learners with basic knowledge and understanding of childcare practices and early years development. It is an ideal starting point for individuals who want to begin a career in childcare and build confidence in supporting young children in safe and nurturing environments.

  • Progression to the ICTQual Level 2 Award in Early Learning and Childcare
  • Entry into nursery assistant and childcare support roles
  • Opportunities in preschool and early years learning centres
  • Development into home-based childcare and childminding support
  • Roles in primary school classroom support and assistant positions
  • Entry into community childcare and family support services
  • Progression into special educational needs (SEN) support roles
  • Opportunities in playgroup and early learning environments
  • Development towards junior early years practitioner roles
  • Improved employability in public and private childcare sectors

FAQS

The Level 1 Award is suitable for individuals who are interested in pursuing a career in early childhood education and care but have little to no prior experience in the field. It is ideal for school leavers, career changers, or individuals seeking an entry point into the early years sector.

Learners will gain basic skills in understanding child development, supporting young children’s daily needs, and maintaining a safe and caring environment. The course also builds communication skills, awareness of safeguarding, teamwork abilities, and the confidence to support children’s learning and well-being in early years settings.

ICTQual Level 1 Award in Early Learning and Childcare is 1 day Training programme. As this Training program have mandatory assessment which will be conducted through Approved Training Centres.

ICTQual Level 1 Award in Early Learning and Childcare course is offered in various formats, including online, in-person, or a combination of both. Learners can choose the format that best fits their schedule and learning preferences. But final decision is made by ATC.

Yes, the ICTQual Level 1 Award in Early Learning and Childcare is an assessment-based qualification. Learners are required to complete mandatory assessments consisting of 100 multiple-choice questions (MCQs). A minimum score of 75% is required to successfully pass the assessments and achieve the qualification.