Why take this course?

This course will introduce you to physical and emotional child development and the importance of play in the early education of children. It will help you to develop fundamental good practice skills – essential for your progression towards further study or employment. You will:

• Gain an understanding of the importance of play in working with children;
• Gain an insight into child development and its value in working with children;
• Develop an awareness of health and safety issues relevant to a range of activities;
• Develop core and essential skills including communication and working with others;
• Develop industry-related good practice.

What you will experience

The National 4 course is made up of the following four units:

• Child Development & Health
• Play in Early Education and Childcare
• Working in Early Education and Childcare
• Care of Children

You will be taught through a range of practical activities, as well as classroom-based theory.   Study will take the form of individual research, group activities, practical work, watching videos and reviewing course hand outs/text books.

Throughout the course you will be offered an opportunity to review and identify how your skills and knowledge are developing, and will be expected to demonstrate:

• Regular attendance and good timekeeping;
• A professional attitude and an interest in Early Education and Childcare;
• A willingness and commitment to learning;
• Planning, preparation and research skills;
• An ability to establish/maintain good working relationships with others;
• Problem solving skills.

To achieve the course award you must attend regularly and successfully complete the all units. Assessment will be based on test and case studies along with project work and a folio.