Early Childhood Development

COURSE DESCRIPTION

This qualification is designed for students interested in children's care and education from birth to 8 years. Students develop knowledge and practical understanding of child development, safeguarding, play and learning, and reflective practice. The course combines classroom-based learning, independent research, practical activities, case studies and assignment work. Work placement opportunities in early years settings are strongly recommended to support learning and professional development.

Course highlights:

  • Work experience placement in an early years setting in year 1 and year 2 
  • Equivalent to one A Level and carries UCAS tariff points. 
  • Accepted by universities across the UK. 

Unit 2: Keeping Children Safe (External Exam) 
• Health and safety 
• Safeguarding and child protection 
• Risk assessment 
• Responding to abuse concerns 
 
Unit 3: Play and Learning (Internal Assessment) 
• Types of play 
• Learning theories 
• Curriculum approaches 
• Planning activities for development 
 
Unit 4: Research and Reflective Practice in an Early Childhood Setting (Internal Assessment) 
• Research methods 
• Reflective practice 
• Legislation and policy 
• Professional development

Early Childhood Development (AAQ) | Pearson qualifications

• Understanding children's development from birth to 8 years 
• Safeguarding and child protection knowledge 
• Health and safety awareness 
• Play and learning activity planning 
• Research and reflective practice skills 
• Critical thinking and problem solving 
• Communication and interpersonal skills 
• Professional practice and teamwork 
• Observation and assessment skills 
• Understanding legislation and policy affecting children and families

Higher Education: Nursing, Childhood and Early Years Studies, Teaching, Psychology, Social Work and related degree programmes. 
 
Careers: Early Years Practitioner, Teaching Assistant, Family Support Worker, Nursery Practitioner, Childcare Worker, Healthcare Support Roles, Social Care Support Roles and progression to graduate professions through higher education.

50% External Assessment and 50% Internal Assessment. 
 
• Unit 1: Children's Development – 1 hour 45 minute examination (80 marks) 
• Unit 2: Keeping Children Safe – 1 hour 45 minute examination (80 marks) 
• Unit 3: Play and Learning – Pearson Set Assignment Brief (internally assessed) 
• Unit 4: Research and Reflective Practice in an Early Childhood Setting – Pearson Set Assignment Brief (internally assessed)

• Early years work placements 
• Nursery and education setting visits 
• Guest speakers from childcare, education, health and social care professions 
• University progression events 
• Safeguarding and professional practice workshops 
• Career and employability activities 

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