Caring for Children Level 1

The Caring for Children Level 1 course programme is designed to give you an understanding of the knowledge and skills needed to care for young children. You will gain work experience with young children and participate in a range of enrichment activities including visits and group projects. Coursework will include assignments and creating your own portfolio of work. You will also engage in activities to develop your English, maths and employability skills.

Course Info
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Caring for Children Level 1
LevelLevel 1
LocationColchester
DurationOne year
Study ModeFull-Time
Campus / Adult Skills CentreColchester Campus
Start DateSeptember 2025
Fee(s)16-18 year olds: Free
19+: TBC
Course Content

Caring for Children Level 1 units may include:

  • Personal Development
  • Human Development
  • Food and Nutrition
  • Healthy Lifestyles
  • Orientation to Work
  • Teamwork
  • Communications
  • Industry work experience (60 hours)

Please note all students in the Early Years department are required to purchase and wear uniform both in College and at their placements.

Entry Requirements
  • 3 GCSEs (9-1) including English Language and Maths, or Level 1 Functional Skills equivalent.
  • An interview
  • Satisfactory Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS*) check.

*Please note there is a charge of approximately £50 for a DBS check.

Career Opportunities

As an experienced nursery worker, you could progress to become a senior nursery worker or centre manager. You could also become a community nursery worker or play leader, or complete further training with the aim of moving into children’s nursing, teaching or social work.

Source: National Careers Service

Course Progression

This Foundation Award is listed on the QCA National Framework of Qualifications and is recognised as a useful starting point for a career in caring for children. The level 1 course is not recognised for employment, but instead leads to further study.

Fees and Finance

Students’ college education is funded for three academic years after leaving secondary school in year 11. Please click the button below which will apply to your age on the 31st August 2025 in order to find out more information about fees and finance relating to your course.

Disclaimer

All fees, prices and funding information shown on this page are for courses starting in the 2024-25 academic year unless stated otherwise, and are correct at the time of entering/printing information, however these may be subject to change due to factors outside of our control. The College cannot accept legal or financial liability as a result of any such changes.

Courses fees are generally not confirmed for September until June / July due to the above factors.

The course information describes programmes offered by Colchester Institute. The College takes all reasonable steps to provide courses as described, but cannot guarantee provision. The information is for guidance and does not form any part of a contract.

The College reserves the right to update and amend information as and when necessary. Colchester Institute will do its best to provide the courses shown, but may have to modify or withdraw a course depending on customer demand and other factors.