Step into Early Learning & Childcare
This is a great starter course for anyone interested in a career working in Early Learning and Childcare.?
Working with children in early learning settings can be a rewarding career choice.
This course provides students with an introduction to working in the early learning and childcare sector. While studying the basics of early learning and childcare, students will explore the job opportunities available and develop and prepare the skills required for work in this sector.
The course will also give students an insight into how children learn and develop.
Content
August Start
- Child Development
- Play in Early Education and Childcare
- Working in Early Education and Childcare
- Care of Children
- Maintenance of a Safe Environment
- Contemporary Families
- Improving Wellbeing
- Assist with an Event
- Personal Development: Self in Community
- Understanding Mental Health Issues
- Influences on Mental Health and Wellbeing
- Coping Strategies and Building Resilience
*Units subject to change
January Start
- Child Development
- Play in Early Education and Childcare
- Working in Early Education and Childcare
- Care of Children
- Maintenance of a Safe Environment
- Contemporary Families
- Personal Development: Self in Community
*Units subject to change
Career Paths
- This course is a pathway to further study and careers within early learning and childcare
Entry requirements
Mandatory:
- Participation at an information session
- Successful interview
Plus one of the following:
- Two National 4 awards including English (or equivalent)
- Applicants who do not meet these criteria, but have relevant paid workplace experience or alternative qualifications may be considered
More Info
- Further advice for full-time applicants:
• Please ensure you have an online account before starting your application
• If you created your account prior to November 2024, you will need to register a new account
• Before starting the application process, please ensure you already hold or are working towards the relevant entry qualifications required for the course you are applying for
• Ensure you use your own personal email address when creating your online account
• Once you have submitted your application, you will receive an automated email immediately
• If you do not receive an acknowledgement e-mail immediately, please check your SPAM/Junk folder
• Please include as much detail as possible in your personal statement such as: the reason you are applying, future career plans, previous employment, relevant experience, hobbies and interests
• Disclosing support needs in your application will not affect your chances of being offered a place on a course at Forth Valley College
• If your application is successful, you will be invited for interview. For January start courses interviews will be in Nov/Dec and interviews for August start courses will take place between February and May
• If your application is unsuccessful, you will be offered support in finding a suitable alternative course
• Applicants who provide a mobile phone number on their application form will be sent a text reminder prior to the day of interview
• If you are unable to attend an interview or wish to withdraw your application - please email student.applications@forthvalley.ac.uk
Location
Alloa Campus
Attendance
Full-Time
Start date
12 January 2026
SCQF Level
Level 4