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Access to HNC Childhood Practice

  • Qualifications National Qualifications
  • SCQF Level SCQF Level 6
  • Study mode August 2026 Courses
  • Campus Kilmarnock
  • Start date January 2027
  • Duration 18 weeks or less
More information

Attendance/Duration

Short full-time

Overview

Have you ever thought of working in childcare but don’t know where to start?

We are offering you the opportunity to start a career pathway that is exciting, challenging and rewarding.

This fast track course will help you to develop the skills, knowledge and positive attitude needed to prepare you to work in the Early Learning and Childcare sector. It will give you the opportunity to explore and understand the underpinning documentation, legislation and frameworks. You will learn about the importance of Play to support children's learning and development. You will be involved in the planning, implementation and evaluation of our practical sessions with local children and families.

Entry Requirements

For entry to this course you’ll need:

  • A real interest in children’s learning and development
  • Five relevant National 5s including English and ideally Maths/Numeracy or relevant
  • course at SCQF Level 5 or equivalent, such as our Early Learning and Childcare (Level 5)
  • An interview with us
  • A satisfactory reference
  • Eligible to be a member of the PVG scheme

If you have relevant life experience and a clear understanding of the importance of the Early Years Practitioner role, but don't have formal qualifications, we may consider you for a place, so please call for a chat.

Course Content

Our course is designed to provide you with a comprehensive understanding of Early Learning and Childcare. You will learn about legislation, national documentation and theories that guide our daily practice.

Throughout the course you will develop valuable qualities and skills including using reflective practice. Holistic development will be explored in-depth along with factors which may influence and impact this. Initiatives such as Bookbug and Peep are introduced during this course, and you will discover how to lead and support children’s learning through play experiences.

Assessments are essay/reports, presentations and a journal.

You may have the opportunity to put your learning into practice by participating in our practical community sessions where you will be supported to plan, deliver and evaluate play activities for children and families.

Careers and Further Study

After successful completion of this course, you may have the opportunity to move onto an HNC course such as:

  • HNC Childhood Practice
  • Or you may consider a Support Worker role in a range of early learning and childcare settings

Skills

  • e Meta Skills - You will develop an understanding of skills for life and work
  • Transferable Skills - You will develop Research Skills and Digital Skills
  • Technical Skills - You will develop the confidence to support children and families in the community whist planning a range of engaging play experiences.