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PREPARATION FOR CHILDCARE

  • Start date:   August 2026
  • Level of Qualification:   SCQF Level 4
  • Course Type:   Full-time

PREPARATION FOR CHILDCARE

This course is a great starting point that introduces you to the world of early learning and childcare, helping you understand what it’s like to work in this rewarding field.

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 -  4

Mode –  Full time

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

You’ll get to explore the responsibilities and challenges of working with young children, including how to support their learning, wellbeing, and development. The course offers hands-on learning, so you can develop practical skills while discovering what it takes to create safe and engaging environments for children to grow and thrive. 

This course is designed to be fun and interactive, giving you a real taste of what a career in childcare could look like. Whether you’re dreaming of becoming a nursery worker, a teaching assistant, or just want to explore your options, this course will help you take the first step.

Read about Nicole James' West Lothian College experience here

 

  • What the course includes

    You’ll explore the basics of working in early learning and childcare while building essential skills like teamwork and planning fun play experiences for children. You’ll also develop key employability skills, such as being reliable, staying adaptable, solving problems, and reflecting on your progress. This course will help you gain confidence, set goals, and prepare to succeed in the workplace.  Units include:  

    • Child development  
    • Play in early learning and childcare  
    • Contemporary Families  
    • Outdoor learning and working with children from various childcare settings (Nursery, Schools and Childminders) 
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Why choose this course

This course is the perfect introduction to the world of early learning and childcare. You’ll explore what impacts the lives of children and their families, learn about children’s rights through the United Nations Convention, and gain insight into the essential skills needed to work in this rewarding sector. By studying how different aspects of early learning connect and work together, you’ll develop a clear understanding of what makes childcare effective. 

The course also helps you build key life skills like teamwork, communication, and problem-solving, while boosting your confidence to set and achieve goals. You’ll learn how to research, present ideas, and reflect on your progress, all while preparing for potential employment in childcare or other sectors. This is a great opportunity to gain valuable skills and start your journey toward a meaningful career.

Entry requirements

  • No formal entry requirements
  • Show willingness to learn, interest in working with children, and a desire to be successful

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.

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    Where it leads

    Education: Level 5 courses in childhood practice or other Level 5 courses at West Lothian College.

Interview arrangements

On receipt of your application, we will invite you in for an interview to ensure this course is the right one for you.  You should plan to be in college for around two hours. The interview consists of: 

  • Course information 
  • Practical group task 
  • Short written task 

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

Interview Questions

  • What has made you interested in working with children?
  • What experiences have you had that would help your application?
  • What do you think a typical day in a nursery or childcare setting looks like?
  • Can you tell me about a time you helped or played with a younger child? What did you enjoy about it?
  • What do you think makes someone good at working with children?
  • What would you do if a child was upset or crying?
  • What would you do if you didn’t agree with someone you were working with?
  • What do you hope to learn on this course?
  • Are you ready to work hard and sometimes deal with messy or noisy situations?
  • Where do you see yourself in a few years—do you think you’ll still be working with children?

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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