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About the course

If you enjoy working with young children and want to make a difference in their early development, this course is a great first step. You’ll develop the knowledge and practical skills needed to support babies and young children from birth to 7 years, with a strong focus on ages 0–5.

This course prepares you for a rewarding career in childcare and gives you the confidence to progress into further study or employment.

Course content

You’ll explore a wide range of topics designed to help you understand and support children’s growth and development, including:

  • Child development and learning from birth to 7 years
  • Safeguarding and child protection
  • Health, safety and well-being in early years settings
  • Supporting play, learning and development
  • Working effectively with children, families and colleagues

Practical skills are a big part of this course, and you’ll have the chance to apply what you learn during your placement in an Early Years setting.

Maths & English

As part of our committment to providing opportunties for learners to continue to develop and practice both their literacy and numeracy skills, oppportunities to use different skills and techniques in both English and maths will be provided in sessions.

Learners will also resit their GCSE Maths within this study programme, and English skills will be embedded throughout the Transition learning outcomes.

What do I need to join

To join the course, you will need five GCSEs at grade 3 or above, including Maths and English. At least one of maths or English must be at grade 4.

You will also need to provide a reference from an Early Years setting confirming your suitability and potential to work with children.

In addition, you will be required to complete an enhanced DBS check. The college will send you a link with instructions on how to apply.

What can I do next

After completing this course, you can:

  • Progress to a Level 3 Early Years qualification or T Level
  • Apply for an apprenticeship in Early Years
  • Move into employment in an early years setting

This qualification also supports progression into further study in childcare, education, and related areas, helping you take the next step towards a career working with children.

Availability

Location
Starting
FLL20LD9
Filton Campus
September 2026
SLL20LD9
Stroud Campus
September 2026

Sports academies are available only to applicants aged 16-18.

SGS Sport

Join SGS Sport. You can enhance your full-time study programme by joining one of our renowned SGS Sport academies. Train in top-tier facilities, learn from expert coaches, and pursue your passion for sports while you study. Explore the academy options below to add to your course basket and elevate your college experience both academically and athletically.

Location
Academy
Membership fee
Add on
WFLX01TT
WISE Campus
American Football
£300
WFLX023J
WISE Campus
Basketball Elite
£400
WFLX023P
WISE Campus
Boxing
n/a
WFLX0G0C
WISE Campus
Female Basketball Elite
£400
WFLX021X
WISE Campus
Female Football Elite
£400
WFLX0T84
WISE Campus
Female Football Performance
£300
WFLX0CP5
WISE Campus
Female Rugby Union
£400
WFLX021W
WISE Campus
Male Football Elite
£400
WFLX0T85
WISE Campus
Male Football Performance
£300
WFLX023H
WISE Campus
Male Rugby Union : Elite
£400
WFLX023K
WISE Campus
Netball Elite
£400
To enquire about this course, fill out the form below, or contact us at [email protected].

Course information last updated: Monday 20th April 2026 @ 9.38AM

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