Preparing to Work in Early Years (Birth to 5 years old)

This course introduces learners to working in early years settings, covering the development, care and wellbeing of young children, safeguarding, communication, play and learning, and the roles and responsibilities of early years practitioners.

Dates, times and locations

17 September to 12 November 2026, 9.30am to 11.30am, Thursdays at 

NSCG in Town, 41 Greengate Street, Stafford. ST16 2JA

Who is the course aimed at?

The course is aimed at Staffordshire residents aged 19+ and is aimed at learners who are interested in working with young children and would like to develop their knowledge, confidence and basic skills before progressing to further study or employment in the early years sector.

Entry requirements

There are no entry requirements for this course.

What you will learn

You will learn about child development, play, communication, safeguarding, health and safety, and supporting children’s wellbeing. You will also explore the role of early years practitioners, teamwork, equality and inclusion, helping you develop the knowledge, confidence and skills needed for further study or employment.

Learning materials

We will provide the workbooks. You will need to bring a pen and paper to take notes and to be able to complete the workbooks during the course.

Learning methods

You will learn through tutor-led sessions, discussions, practical activities, group work, role-play and real-life early years scenarios. You will complete short tasks and activities, receive tutor guidance and feedback, and develop your confidence and understanding of working with young children.

Learner support

Classes are small to ensure your teacher can provide you with the help and support you need to enable you to confidently access the class learning materials. Individual specific needs will be discussed at the start of the course. 

How you will be assessed

To ensure you are on track and your understanding of the course, your teacher will use verbal questions, observations and an individual learning plan to monitor your progress against the course outcomes.

What can learners progress onto

Learners can progress on to our Level 1 Award in working with Early Years qualification. 

Course provider

Newcastle and Stafford Colleges Group

Course fees

This course is fully funded, so there are no course fees. 

How to find out more and enrol 

This course is by referral only, please contact the provider for further details. 

Navarda Garside or Jo Petitt 

Tel: 01785 223800

Email: Navarda.garside@nscg.ac.uk   joanne.petitt@nscg.ac.uk