Are you looking for a career in working with early years children? This unit forms an introduction to early childhood studies. The unit aims to enable you to recognise the importance of observation in early childhood research and practice and to understand its development. Emphasis is placed on understanding the integrated nature of young children’s development and learning and awareness of the implications of various theories of child development such as their social, emotional and language development. You will learn about using different observational techniques and how to interpret the findings to plan appropriate learning experiences for children to develop their own learning. If you work in a early years setting such as a nursery school or playgroup, this unit is ideal to develop your own skills and knowledge to further your career in the early years sector.

Successful completion of this unit can be used as recognition of prior learning (RPL). When you have completed this unit, you will be able to progress to the Level 4 Certificate in Early Childhood Studies course delivered at Croydon College’s university centre as a full time one-year course of 120 Level 4 credits.  

The unit can also be used as a unique CPD opportunity to gain skills and knowledge of the early years and healthcare sector. It is a particularly relevant unit for those looking to work in an early years setting such as a primary or nursery school or within the healthcare sector or those wanting to progress your career.

All programmes are open to Londoners who meet the following criteria:

• UK resident and living in London
• Aged 18+
• Do not hold a level 4 (post-college/sixth form) qualification
• Either employed (and earning less than London Living Wage) or unemployed/economically inactive

A Level 2 qualification in English would be preferable

A Level 2 qualification in Maths would be preferable.

Candidates without Level 2 qualifications in English and Maths may still apply but may be required to complete an initial assessment.