Preparing to Work in Childcare - Level 1

This course requires you to follow an application process.

Course code: 26P101

In this beginners course learn the skills needed to prepare you for working in childcare providing a good foundation for moving to the next level qualification.

when
From 14 Sep 2026 to 21 Jun 2027
Monday 09:30-12:30  32 weeks
Date
14 Sep 2026
Time
09:30 to 12:30
Date
21 Sep 2026
Time
09:30 to 12:30
Date
28 Sep 2026
Time
09:30 to 12:30
Date
05 Oct 2026
Time
09:30 to 12:30
Date
12 Oct 2026
Time
09:30 to 12:30
Date
19 Oct 2026
Time
09:30 to 12:30
Date
02 Nov 2026
Time
09:30 to 12:30
Date
09 Nov 2026
Time
09:30 to 12:30
Date
16 Nov 2026
Time
09:30 to 12:30
Date
23 Nov 2026
Time
09:30 to 12:30
Date
30 Nov 2026
Time
09:30 to 12:30
Date
07 Dec 2026
Time
09:30 to 12:30
Date
14 Dec 2026
Time
09:30 to 12:30
Date
11 Jan 2027
Time
09:30 to 12:30
Date
18 Jan 2027
Time
09:30 to 12:30
Date
25 Jan 2027
Time
09:30 to 12:30
Date
01 Feb 2027
Time
09:30 to 12:30
Date
08 Feb 2027
Time
09:30 to 12:30
Date
22 Feb 2027
Time
09:30 to 12:30
Date
01 Mar 2027
Time
09:30 to 12:30
Date
08 Mar 2027
Time
09:30 to 12:30
Date
15 Mar 2027
Time
09:30 to 12:30
Date
22 Mar 2027
Time
09:30 to 12:30
Date
12 Apr 2027
Time
09:30 to 12:30
Date
19 Apr 2027
Time
09:30 to 12:30
Date
26 Apr 2027
Time
09:30 to 12:30
Date
10 May 2027
Time
09:30 to 12:30
Date
17 May 2027
Time
09:30 to 12:30
Date
24 May 2027
Time
09:30 to 12:30
Date
07 Jun 2027
Time
09:30 to 12:30
Date
14 Jun 2027
Time
09:30 to 12:30
Date
21 Jun 2027
Time
09:30 to 12:30
where
location to be advised
fees
full fee for this course £609.00  (

Fee concessions will be discussed on application, many students do not have to pay a course fee.

)
who

Wolverhampton Adult Education Service

enquiries@aes.wolverhampton.gov.uk

Course details

<ul>
<li>A practical introductory course for adults interested in working with children in early years, nurseries or school settings.</li>
<li>Ideal for those progressing from Entry Level or learners with limited experience who want to build essential childcare knowledge and skills.</li>
<li>Covers child development, health and safety, communication, safeguarding and supporting children’s learning.</li>
<li>A supportive steppingstone into Level 2 Childcare or related vocational pathways.</li>
</ul>

Key Topics

<ul>
<li>Introduction to Childcare</li>
<li>Child Development</li>
<li>Health, Safety & Safeguarding</li>
<li>Play and Learning</li>
<li>Work Skills for Childcare</li>
</ul>

Course requirements

<ul>
<li>You must be aged 19 or over.</li>
<li>No previous childcare qualifications needed, though some experience with children is helpful.</li>
<li>Willingness to participate in discussions, group work and practical activities.</li>
<li>Commitment to regular attendance and completing coursework.</li>
<li>Be working at an English Level 1</li>
</ul>

Location

<p> City Learning Quarter, Old Hall Street, Wolverhampton WV1 3AU</p>

What are the benefits of this course?

<ul>
<li>Develops a strong foundation of childcare knowledge and confidence.</li>
<li>Helps you understand the expectations and responsibilities of working with children.</li>
<li>Builds practical skills useful at home, in volunteering roles or future employment.</li>
<li>Prepares you for further qualification routes in childcare and early years.</li>
<li>Supportive teachers with experience teaching adults returning to education.</li>
</ul>

How will I learn?

<ul>
<li>Through classroom-based lessons, group activities and tutor-led discussions.</li>
<li>Practical tasks linked to caring for children and planning play opportunities.</li>
<li>Case studies, real-life examples and hands-on learning.</li>
<li>Supportive teaching adapted to different learning needs.</li>
</ul>

<p> </p>

<p> </p>

<p> </p>

How will my progress be monitored and assessed?

<ul>
<li>Assessment through written activities, worksheets and practical tasks.</li>
<li>No formal exams—assessment is continuous throughout the course.</li>
<li>Completion of a small portfolio of evidence demonstrating your knowledge and skills.</li>
<li>Regular tutor feedback to support improvement and confidence.</li>
</ul>

Are there any additional costs?

<ul>
<li>Course fees may apply, depending on eligibility.</li>
<li>No specialist equipment required.</li>
<li>You wish to bring basic stationery (pen, notebook).</li>
</ul>

What qualification will I get?

<p><strong>NCFE Level 1 Award in Preparing to Work in Childcare</strong> - A nationally recognised qualification introducing key childcare principles.</p>

What will I be able to do after this course?

<p>Progress to:</p>

<ul>
<li>Level 2 Early Years Practitioner qualifications</li>
<li>Level 2 Supporting Teaching and Learning in Schools</li>
<li>Level 2 Health & Social Care</li>
<li>Other related vocational courses</li>
</ul>

<p style="margin-left:48px"> </p>

<p>Begin volunteering or undertaking work experience in childcare settings (depending on provider requirements).</p>

<p>Gain a clearer understanding of career pathways in childcare and early years.</p>

Further information

<p><span style="font-size:12pt"><span style="font-family:&#34;Times New Roman&#34;,serif">For further information, careers, or educational advice contact our Student Services Team:</span></span></p>

<p style="text-align:justify"><span style="font-size:12pt"><span style="font-family:&#34;Times New Roman&#34;,serif"><strong><span style="background-color:white"><span style="font-family:&#34;Calibri&#34;,sans-serif"><span style="color:#ffc000">01902 558180</span></span></span><span style="background-color:white"><span style="color:#ffc000"> | </span></span></strong><a href="mailto:enquiries@aes.wolverhampton.gov.uk" style="color:blue; text-decoration:underline" target="_blank"><strong><span style="background-color:white"><span style="font-family:&#34;Calibri&#34;,sans-serif"><span style="color:#ffc000">enquiries@aes.wolverhampton.gov.uk</span></span></span></strong></a><strong><span style="background-color:white"><span style="color:#ffc000"> | </span></span></strong><a href="http://www.aes.wolverhampton.gov.uk/" style="color:blue; text-decoration:underline" target="_blank"><strong><span style="background-color:white"><span style="font-family:&#34;Calibri&#34;,sans-serif"><span style="color:#ffc000">www.aes.wolverhampton.gov.uk</span></span></span></strong></a></span></span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:12pt"><span style="font-family:&#34;Times New Roman&#34;,serif">For free Course and Career Advice go to: <a href="https://www.life-pilot.co.uk/" style="color:blue; text-decoration:underline">https://www.life-pilot.co.uk/</a> </span></span></p>