Step into Early Learning & Childcare
Take your first step toward a fulfilling career working with children and young people.
If you’re curious about a career in early learning and childcare, this course is the perfect starting point. Designed to introduce you to the world of working with children, it offers a supportive and engaging environment where you’ll begin to build the knowledge, confidence, and skills needed to succeed in this rewarding sector.
Throughout the course, you’ll explore:
- The basics of early learning and childcare
- How children grow, learn, and develop
- The wide range of career opportunities available in the sector
- The essential skills and qualities needed to work effectively with children and families
- Essential study skills to support you to progress
You’ll also begin to understand the importance of play, communication, and creating safe, nurturing environments that support children’s wellbeing.
Whether you're leaving school, changing careers, or simply exploring your options, this course will help you discover your potential and prepare you for further study.
Start your journey here - and make a difference in the lives of children and young people.
Content
- Child Development
- Play in Early Education and Childcare
- Working in Early Education and Childcare
- Care of Children
- Maintenance of a Safe Environment
- Contemporary Families
- Understanding Mental Health Issues
- Influences on Mental Health and Wellbeing
- Coping Strategies and Building Resilience
*Units subject to change
Career Paths
- This course is a pathway to further study and careers within early learning and childcare.
Progression
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
Alloa Campus
Full-Time
12 January 2026
Level 4
Falkirk Campus
Full-Time
17 August 2026
Level 4