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NQ CHILDHOOD PRACTICE LEVEL 5

  • Start date:   August 2026
  • Level of Qualification:   SCQF Level 5
  • Course Type:   Full-time

NQ CHILDHOOD PRACTICE LEVEL 5

This course is a great starting point if you’re interested in working with children and want to build a career in early education and childcare.

Please note: Applications for all Full-Time, Part-Time and Schools courses for August 2026 entry are now closed.
If you are interested in studying with us, applications for our January 2027 Full-Time Short Courses will open on 13th October 2026.

Applications for August 2027 entry will open in mid-January 2027. These courses will be showcased at our December Showcase Event, with full details available closer to the time.

Work-Based Qualifications (SVQs) still have spaces available, and applications are accepted throughout the year. For information on our available Work-Based Qualifications (SVQs) and how to apply, please visit our Work-Based Qualifications (SVQs) page.

Please check our website regularly for updates, course information and future application dates.

 

Start date – Aug 2026

End date –  Jun 2027

SCQF Level -  5

Mode –  Full time

Days: 2 - 3 days per week Monday to Friday  
Times:  9am - 12pm and 1pm - 4pm  
Duration: 1 year

This qualification will give you a solid foundation in the skills, knowledge, and attitudes needed to succeed in this rewarding field.

The best part? This course is designed to help you get hands-on experience, so you’ll be ready to step into real childcare settings with confidence should you progress in your studies. Whether you're aiming to become a nursery worker, teaching assistant, or simply want to learn more about working with kids, this course will help you take your first step toward a fulfilling career in childcare.

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    What the course includes

    Throughout the course, you’ll learn about the key aspects of working with young children, including how to create safe, supportive, and fun learning environments.

    You’ll develop practical skills that are essential for childcare, like effective communication, problem-solving, and teamwork. Plus, you’ll gain an understanding of the role of childcare professionals and how they support children’s development, health, and wellbeing. Course content includes: 

    • Child Development 
    • Outdoor Learning 
    • Play 
    • Opportunity for Practical Placement  

    You also have the chance to gain the Skills for Work: Early Learning and Childcare at Level 5.

Why choose this course

Choosing this course is the perfect way to kickstart your career in early learning and childcare! Not only will you gain hands-on experience in the field, but you’ll also develop essential employability skills that will help you succeed in any job. You’ll learn how to manage your time, take responsibility, and understand the importance of things like appearance and conduct in the workplace. The course also focuses on building your self-evaluation skills, so you can reflect on your strengths and areas for improvement. 

You’ll develop a positive attitude to learning and be encouraged to approach problems with flexibility and creativity. As you set personal goals and learn from your experiences, you’ll gain the confidence to adapt to change and take on new challenges. By the end of the course, you’ll be better prepared to find a job and succeed in the workplace, whether in childcare or any other sector. It’s a great way to build the skills that employers value most and set yourself up for success.

You will have the opportunity to gain experience in a playgroup setting and practical experience in our purpose-built playroom and outdoor classrooms. 

Entry requirements

  • 3 National 4 qualifications, one of which should be English

We welcome applications from people with relevant life and work experience.

An Enhanced Disclosure Scotland application is required which you will do through the college if offered a place.

If English is not your first language, ESOL Level 5 is an entry requirement for this course.

  • Where it leads

    Education: Childhood Practice Level 6 or other Level 6 courses at West Lothian College.

    Employment: Students have been successful in gaining apprenticeships within private nurseries after completion of the course. 

Interview arrangements

If we invite you for an interview, plan to be in college for around two hours. The interview consists of:

  • Course information
  • Interview
  • Short written task

Please bring evidence of any qualifications and/or any employment references.

Interview Questions 

  • Tell us why you’ve applied for the course? 
  • Have you ever applied for other college courses? 
  • If school leaver: What school did you attend and what are you most proud of at school? Would you be happy for us to contact the school for a reference?  
  •  If a progressing student student: What has been biggest success on your current course?  
  • What personal qualities do you have that would make you suitable for working with children?  
  • What challenges have you previously experienced in education and how did you overcome them?  
  • What are you most looking forward to on the course?  
  • Did you ever had learning support and will you need this if you come on to the Level 5 course. 
  • Where do you see yourself in five years time? 
  • Do you have any questions about college or the course? 
  • Do you have a support worker and can we have their details to contact them? 

Fees, Finance & Funding

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

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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.

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