This course is for those who want to work as early learning and childcare practitioners. The award will allow you to work with children and young people aged between 0 and 18 years.
You will learn about the values, principles and laws relevant to a career in the early years sector. After you have completed the course, you can register with the Scottish Social Services Council (SSSC) at practitioner level.
The course includes:
You will gain work experience from work placements, and practical experience in our purpose-built playroom and outdoor classroom.
I’m finding the course to be really informative. There is so much more to childcare than simply looking after children! I have really enjoyed the journey so far.
Matthew Clark, HNC Childhood Practice
The course is really interesting and it’s really hands-on which is great. It’s nice to come to and study something I really enjoy, a subject I’m really passionate about. Since I’ve already had a bit of work experience, I know what my strengths and weaknesses are which I think actually made studying a bit easier for me.
Connor Green, HNC Childhood Practice
We welcome applications from people with relevant life and work experience.
An Enhanced Disclosure Scotland application is required. This will be carried out with the college if a place is offered.
If English is not your first language, ESOL Level 5 is an entry requirement for this course.
Education: HND Childhood Practice or degree-level courses. West Lothian College has an exclusive articulation agreement with advance standing into year 2 of the BA (Hons) Education Studies (Primary) at Queen Margaret University.
These spaces are limited and applicants who submit a competitive application will be considered.
Employment: In childcare with statutory, voluntary or private organisations including schools, nurseries, creches and family centres. Previous students have found employment with West Lothian Council and several private nurseries.
2021-22 saw the greatest number of students gain university places with 21 students applied, received 47 offers from Universities across Scotland.
17 progressed to HND Childhood Practice, and a high percentage of the remaining students went on to work within the local authority or the private sector.
If we invite you for an interview, plan to be in college for around two hours. The interview consists of:
Please bring evidence of any qualifications and/or any employment references.
There may be help available to assist with your study related costs. Impartial, confidential help and advice on financial matters is available from the Student Funding Team - including Bursaries, Educational Maintenance Allowance (EMA), Student Awards Agency for Scotland, Student Loans Company and student support funds. Click here to find out more
Take that next step in your career and apply for this course today. If the course is not yet open for applications, feel free to ask any questions by clicking make an enquiry.