ICTQual Level 1 Award in Early Learning and Childcare
Are you passionate about nurturing young minds and shaping the future generation? Do you dream of a career where every day is filled with laughter, learning, and endless possibilities? If so, then the Level 1 Award in Early Learning and Childcare could be your first step towards an exciting and rewarding career in early childhood education. Join us as we delve into the world of early learning and childcare, and discover how this foundational qualification can kickstart your journey towards making a difference in the lives of young children.
The Level 1 Award in Early Learning and Childcare is a foundational qualification designed to provide individuals with an introduction to the principles and practices of early childhood education and care. This award serves as a starting point for those interested in pursuing a career working with young children, typically aged 0-5 years, in a variety of childcare settings.
The Level 1 Award serves as a gateway to the captivating world of early childhood education and care. Designed for individuals who are new to the field, this qualification provides a comprehensive introduction to the principles, practices, and theories that underpin high-quality early years provision. Whether you’re considering a career change or embarking on your educational journey, the Level 1 Award offers an exciting starting point for your exploration.
The Level 1 Award in Early Learning and Childcare is an entry-level qualification designed to introduce individuals to the fundamentals of working with young children in a variety of childcare settings. Whether you’re considering a career as a nursery assistant, early years practitioner, or childminder, this award provides a solid foundation upon which to build your knowledge and skills in early childhood education.
As you embark on your journey towards becoming an early years practitioner, the Level 1 Award in Early Learning and Childcare offers the perfect starting point. With its blend of theoretical knowledge, practical skills, and a passion for making a difference, this qualification sets you on the path to a fulfilling and rewarding career in the field of early childhood education. So, are you ready to take the first step towards shaping the future generation? Your adventure begins here.
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:
This qualification, the ICTQual Level 1 Award in Early Learning and Childcare, consists of 6 mandatory units.
- Introduction to Early Childhood Education and Care
- Health and Safety in Early Years Settings
- Child Development
- Promoting Positive Relationships
- Understanding Early Years Legislation and Regulations
- 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.
Completing the Level 1 Award in Early Learning and Childcare provides learners with a solid foundation to pursue further education and gain practical experience in the early years sector. This qualification equips learners with the essential skills and knowledge to support children’s learning, development, and wellbeing in a professional setting.
Progression to Higher-Level Qualifications
- Learners can advance to Level 2 Certificates or Diplomas in Early Learning and Childcare, which cover child development in more depth, behaviour management, and planning activities to support learning.
- Opportunities exist to specialise in areas such as special educational needs (SEN), childcare management, or health and wellbeing in early years through targeted Level 2 and Level 3 programmes.
- Successful completion of higher-level qualifications can lead to Level 3 or 4 Diplomas, enabling learners to take on leadership roles or supervisory positions within childcare settings.
Career Opportunities
- Graduates of the Level 1 Award can pursue entry-level roles in early years and childcare, including positions as nursery assistants, playgroup support workers, or classroom helpers.
- The qualification provides a pathway to employment in nurseries, pre-schools, childminding services, and community childcare programmes.
- With experience and further study, learners can progress to roles such as early years practitioner, senior nursery officer, or special needs support worker.
Professional Development and Skills Enhancement
- Learners develop essential transferable skills, including communication, observation, record keeping, and child safety awareness, which are highly valued in all childcare environments.
- The qualification helps learners gain confidence in planning and supporting activities, promoting positive behaviour, and working collaboratively with colleagues and families.
- Graduates are well-positioned to pursue professional registration, accreditation, or further training in line with early years statutory requirements.
Overall, the Level 1 Award in Early Learning and Childcare is an excellent starting point for learners committed to building a rewarding, long-term career in childcare and early years education, offering clear pathways for academic advancement and professional growth.