Quality education and childcare makes a real difference to the lives of children from birth to age 16. It lays the foundation for their development in their crucial formative years and helps prepare them for adulthood.
In ensuring quality provision Childcare providers have to meet legislative requirements on the training and qualifications of their staff.
The qualifications we offer meet these legislative requirements. The levels of the training are classified by the Qualifications Curriculum Authority (QCA) and are set out on a national framework:
| Level of qualification | Equivalent to Academic Level | Equivalent to Occupational Level | Level aimed at |
|---|---|---|---|
| Entry Level Orientation | Entry Level Certificate | To help those deciding which area of work with children they wish to pursue | |
| Level 1 Foundation | GCSE grade D - G | Level 1 NVQ | For those wanting awareness and understanding of basic principles and skills |
| Level 2 Intermediate | GCSE grade A - C | Level 2 NVQ | Those working with children "on the front line" i.e. assistant level |
| Level 3 Advanced | A level; Diploma | Level 3 NVQ | Those with more experience of working with children, those who work in more "specialist" areas, alone unsupervised or who "supervise" others |
| Level 4 Higher | Undergraduate Level | Level 4 NVQ | Managers, co-ordinators or specialist practitioners |
| Level 5 Higher | Graduate / postgraduate Level | Level 5 NVQ | Senior positions within workplace or organisations. Multi sites/services, strategic, policy, postgraduate or professionals |
This framework will help you to choose the qualification level that is appropriate to you. You can then look for the right level qualification we can offer you.
Training Available through PTAC
For further information and guidance on the Framework please visit the Early Years and Childcare Qualifications page at the QCA website:
www.qca.org.uk/subjects/childcare/early_years.asp
If you would like further advice and guidance on your career options and suitable training please contact us.
If you are considering a career in childcare, early education, play or youth work and want to find out more detailed information, your Local Authority Early Years Teams run FREE informative Choices Workshops.
The workshops are designed to help you make an informed choice about whether working with children is right for you and in which sector, along with what qualifications, training and career opportunities exist. These are aimed at individuals who are not sure what career would be right for them.
The Local Authority Early Years Teams also provide general advice, guidance and support on training. Each produces a training guide which you may find useful.
T: 01872 270377
W: www.cornwallearlyyears.org.uk
T: 01392 385527
W: www.devon.gov.uk/zero14plus.htm
T: 01752 307450
W: www.plymouth.gov.uk/allchildrenfirst
T: 01803 207896
W: www.torbay.gov.uk/early-years.htm
