Home > Courses > Childcare & Early Years > Caring for Children Level 1 Diploma
A career in education and early childhood development can be stimulating, satisfying and rewarding, and provides the opportunity to influence and shape many lives.
This is a one year programme designed for people who would like to prepare to work in a supporting role in private day nurseries; education; health authorities; social services and childminding, with young children under the age of 8 years.
After completing this course further training will be required to work in these areas. This will interest you if you are planning to work in the field of childcare.
This course includes a variety of subjects including:
Start Date
September 2025
Entry Requirements & Interview Process
An introductory course suitable for beginners. School leavers should aim for at least 4 GCSEs at grades 1-2.
All students must have a DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service) check and supply two satisfactory references. Places will be conditional on this being deemed satisfactory.
An interview with a specialist tutor will also be required.
Progression
This could be a step closer to a career as an Early Years Practitioner in private day nurseries, education, health authorities, social services or childminding, as well as overseas as a qualified Early Years Practitioner.
Further studies can include: L2 Foundation T Level Foundation Early Years or the L2 Certificate in Understanding Children & Young People’s Mental Health.
Career Opportunities
Early Years Practitioner, Education, Health Authorities, Social Services, Childminder
Assessment Methods
This programme is unit based therefore students are required to complete a portfolio of evidence.
Evidence can be in the form of portfolio tasks, tutor reports and action plans.
Course Fees
This course is free for students age 16 – 18. For students 19+ please contact our Student Services Team on 01422 399367 for more information.
Career Opportunities
Early Years Teacher
£22,000 – £35,000
Nursery Nurse/Assistant
£12,000 – £22,000
Calderdale College has a set of standard entry requirements. Apply for the course you want to study and we will help you get there.
There are a lot of courses available – work focused, practical and academic so it is important to think about the future and whether you want to proceed to university, move onto another course or get a job. We offer BTECs, Apprenticeships, T Levels, NVQs, VRQs, Degree Level Courses and more.
If you’re still not sure, don’t worry, just speak to a member of our advice and guidance team who will advise you.
Term Dates
Spring Term
6th Jan 2025 – 14th Feb 2025
24th Feb 2025 – 4th Apr 2025
Summer Term
22nd Apr 2025 – 23rd May 2025
2nd June 2025 – 27th June 2025
Calderdale College
Francis Street
Halifax
West Yorkshire
HX1 3UZ
United Kingdom