At Essex, we actively encourage training as qualifications and professional development are directly linked to the quality of childcare provided.
Please click on the 'course details' link to view our proposed schedule of training over the coming months. We have summarised a brief outline of course levels and learning methods to help you decide what might best suit you.
Foundation Levels – This is an introduction to training for those with no childcare qualifications. A work placement may be included although you should be prepared to seek a volunteer placement to gain experience.
If you prefer we can provide an information pack that contains a CD-ROM covering a range of Childcare with workers describing their roles. This is designed to inform you of a variety of opportunities and training required. Some of these examples can be downloaded directly from this website. To receive an information pack please contact us by phoning our helpline on 01245 445272 or e-mail us at workingwithchildren@essexcc.gov.uk.
Level 2 – Many staff who are working under supervision, such as Nursery Assistants, Pre-School Assistants or Playgroup Workers, are working towards a Level 2 qualification while undertaking these roles.
Level 3 – This is for staff working on their own initiative and planning and organising their own work, as well as supervising others. Examples of roles at this level include Nursery Nurse, Pre-School Supervisor, Senior Playworker or Registered Childminder working from their home.
Level 4 - This qualification is for experienced practitioners who are required to carry out complex and non-routine tasks such as managing an Early Years or out-of-school setting. A number of roles now exist to co-ordinate the development of Childcare places, supporting potential new childcare businesses as well as roles in children’s centres.
Level 5 and 6 – There are many professionals now working in the sector who have progressed their careers to a level where degrees are appropriate to underpin knowledge. A recent Government directive has set out the criteria for attaining Early Years professional status – with significant funding to encourage this development. By 2015, it is expected that every setting has a Childcare graduate.
Some of the available courses:
The Early Years Sector – Endorsed Foundation Degree,
Playworker Sector – Endorsed Foundation Degree, BA (Hons) Degree in Playwork, Early Childhood Studies Degree, BA (Hons) Learning Support, Primary Education and Teaching, BA/BSc (Hons) or Youth Studies/Youth Work, BSc (Hons).
Alternative ways to achieve qualifications
There are two main ways to achieve a recognised qualification in Early Years, Childcare Education and Playwork.
1 Vocationally-Related Qualifications (VRQs)
These can be gained at a college or learning centre and are available through distance learning, although in the latter case you may need to arrange your own work placement experience. Study support is available to ensure each individual learning need is met.
2 National Vocational Qualifications (NVQs)
These are work-related, competence-based qualifications. They provide the skills and knowledge to do a job effectively within the NVQ framework. These qualifications are a good way for people with relevant work experience to achieve a recognised qualification.