Why take this course?

This Skills for Work course will introduce you to physical and emotional child development and the importance of the use of play in the early education of children.   The course will allow you to develop fundamental good practice skills, and become well-equipped for going on to 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 5 course is made up of the following four units:

1. Child Development
2. Play in Early Education and Childcare
3. Working in Early Education and Childcare
4. Parenting

You will be taught through a range of practical activities as well as classroom-based theory. Depending on your location, this will take place at one of the College’s campuses or within your school. Study will take the form of individual research, group activities, practical work, watching videos and reviewing course hand outs/text books issued by your lecturer.

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 and maintain good working relationships with others;
• Problem solving skills.