Childcare

The Child Development course is designed to provide vocational and project-based learning focused on early years education and care. Learners gain practical knowledge and skills that prepare them for further study or careers in the childcare sector. 

The course covers essential topics such as child growth and development, health and well-being, and supporting learning through play. Students develop transferable skills like communication, teamwork, and problem-solving, which are valuable in both professional and everyday contexts. 

Through real-world examples and practical tasks, learners are encouraged to think critically, apply working practices, and analyse documentation to make informed decisions. 

The qualification is graded at Levels 1 and 2 from Pass through to Distinction* (equivalent to GCSE grades 1–8.5) and provides a strong foundation for progression into Level 3 courses, apprenticeships, or employment in the childcare and education sector. 

Aims of Key Stage 4 curriculum 

The programme is designed to introduce learners to the principles of child development and care within a vocational, project-based framework. It aims to build a strong foundation of core knowledge and practical skills relevant to the early years sector, while also developing transferable skills that will support further study and future employment. In addition, the programme provides a clear pathway for progression into advanced qualifications in Childcare or Health and Social Care, including T Levels or alternative academic routes. 

• Child development – students will gain a deep understanding of child development across physical, cognitive, social, and emotional milestones. 

• Influencing factors – students will explore influencing factors such as nature vs. nurture, life transitions, and biological/environmental impacts.  

• Care routines & play – students will learn about care routines and play, including hygiene, nutrition, rest, and the benefits of creative play activities. 

• Early years provision - students will understand early years provision, including different settings, accessibility, facilities, and staff ratios. 

• Legislation & procedures - students will study legislation and procedures, such as Ofsted regulation, UNCRC, safeguarding, equality, and health and safety requirements. 

• Practitioner expectations – students will develop knowledge of practitioner expectations, including professionalism, communication, timekeeping, and presentation. 

• Roles & responsibilities students will examine roles and responsibilities, focusing on key adults, job roles inside and outside of settings, and multi-professional collaboration. 

• Observations – students will practice observations, learning methods, recording, evaluation, and the difference between objective and subjective approaches. 

• Planning – students will apply planning skills through the child-centred planning cycle: observe, assess, plan, implement, and review.   

Assessment  

The assessment consists of two components: an external written examination, accounting for 50% of the grade, which covers the core content; and a synoptic NEA project, also worth 50%, involving sector-relevant assignments that are internally assessed and externally moderated. 

Subject Leader: Helen.Thompson@excelsiornewcastle.org.uk  

Child-Care-Curriculum.pdf