ICTQual AB Level 3 Certificate in Maternal and Child Nutrition (Cert Maternal and Child Nutrition)
The ICTQual AB Level 3 Certificate in Maternal and Child Nutrition (Cert Maternal and Child Nutrition) is a specialised programme designed to provide learners with comprehensive knowledge of nutrition for mothers and children. This qualification equips learners with the skills necessary to assess, plan, and implement effective nutritional strategies that support maternal health, child growth, and overall family wellbeing.
Learners will explore essential concepts in maternal nutrition, infant feeding, child development, and diet-related health conditions. The programme emphasises evidence-based approaches to managing nutritional requirements during pregnancy, breastfeeding, and early childhood, helping to prevent deficiencies, support healthy growth, and promote long-term wellbeing. Practical applications include dietary assessment, meal planning, and implementing nutrition interventions tailored to the needs of mothers and children.
This course is ideal for individuals pursuing careers in maternal health, paediatrics, clinical nutrition, dietetics, community health, and wellness programmes. Learners will develop the ability to provide guidance on maternal and child nutrition, create personalised dietary plans, and collaborate effectively with healthcare professionals to support optimal health outcomes.
The ICTQual AB Level 3 Certificate in Maternal and Child Nutrition also offers a strong foundation for further study and professional development in advanced nutrition, public health, and allied healthcare disciplines. Completing this qualification empowers learners to enhance their analytical, practical, and communication skills, enabling them to deliver evidence-based nutrition guidance and interventions for mothers, infants, and children in a variety of professional contexts.
Level 3 Certificate in Maternal and Child Nutrition (Cert Maternal and Child Nutrition)
To enrol in ICTQual AB Level 3 Certificate in Maternal and Child Nutrition (Cert Maternal and Child Nutrition), learner must meet the following entry requirements:
This qualification, the ICTQual AB Level 3 Certificate in Maternal and Child Nutrition (Cert Maternal and Child Nutrition), consists of 6 mandatory units.
- Introduction to Maternal and Child Nutrition
- Nutritional Requirements During Pregnancy
- Breastfeeding and Infant Feeding
- Nutrition for Early Childhood and Growth
- Evidence-Based Interventions in Maternal and Child Health
- Professional Practice and Ethics in Maternal and Child Nutrition
Learning Outcomes for the Study Units:
Introduction to Maternal and Child Nutrition
- Understand the principles of maternal and child nutrition
- Recognise the importance of nutrition for maternal health, fetal development, and child growth
- Identify key factors affecting nutritional status in mothers and children
- Explain the role of nutrition in promoting long-term health and wellbeing
Nutritional Requirements During Pregnancy
- Identify essential nutrients and their roles in supporting pregnancy
- Understand dietary guidelines and recommended intakes for expectant mothers
- Analyse factors affecting nutrient absorption and metabolism during pregnancy
- Develop strategies to prevent nutritional deficiencies and promote maternal and fetal health
Breastfeeding and Infant Feeding
- Understand the benefits of breastfeeding for mother and child
- Recognise infant nutritional needs and feeding practices
- Evaluate the use of formula and complementary feeding in early childhood
- Apply evidence-based guidance to support safe and effective infant feeding
Nutrition for Early Childhood and Growth
- Identify the nutritional requirements of children from birth to five years
- Understand growth patterns, developmental milestones, and their relationship to nutrition
- Assess dietary intake and eating behaviours in young children
- Develop age-appropriate meal plans and interventions to support healthy growth
Evidence-Based Interventions in Maternal and Child Health
- Design and implement nutritional interventions for mothers and children
- Critically assess scientific research and guidelines in maternal and child nutrition
- Monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of nutrition programmes
- Ensure interventions are safe, practical, and evidence-based
Professional Practice and Ethics in Maternal and Child Nutrition
- Understand ethical considerations in providing nutritional guidance to mothers and children
- Communicate nutrition advice effectively to families and caregivers
- Apply professional standards and best practices in maternal and child nutrition
- Reflect on personal practice to enhance professional competence and quality of care
Completing the ICTQual AB Level 3 Certificate in Maternal and Child Nutrition equips learners with the knowledge, practical skills, and confidence to advance in the fields of maternal health, paediatrics, clinical nutrition, and community health. This qualification provides a strong foundation for both academic progression and professional development in maternal and child nutrition.
Academic Progression
- Progression to Level 4 Diplomas in Maternal and Child Nutrition, Clinical Nutrition, or Public Health
- Opportunities to specialise in areas such as Paediatric Nutrition, Maternal Health Programmes, or Advanced Dietetics
- Pathways to higher education degrees in nutrition, dietetics, maternal and child health, or public health
- Supports accumulation of recognised credits for long-term academic and professional advancement
Professional Progression
- Roles in maternal and child health services, clinical nutrition, dietetic support, and community health programmes
- Opportunities to work in hospitals, maternity units, childcare centres, community health organisations, and wellness services
- Ability to collaborate with healthcare professionals, dietitians, and caregivers to develop tailored nutritional interventions
- Preparation for advanced careers in evidence-based maternal and child nutrition planning, paediatric dietary consultancy, and family health promotion
Personal and Skills Development
- Develop practical skills in dietary assessment, meal planning, and nutritional intervention for mothers and children
- Gain confidence in applying evidence-based nutrition strategies in clinical and community health contexts
- Enhance communication, ethical decision-making, and problem-solving skills within maternal and child healthcare environments
- Establish a foundation for continuous professional development and career growth in maternal and child nutrition, dietetics, and allied health services
