NC Early Education and Childcare

The role of the support worker in Early Education and Childcare has developed significantly as the sector has expanded, particularly in the voluntary and private sector. This NC will allow the candidate to register with the Scottish Social Services Council (SSSC) at support worker level. As part of the regulatory requirements, support workers will be required to undergo continuous professional development and the component Units from this NC are suitable for this purpose.

This NC provides the flexibility which is valued by candidates and centres and reflects the importance of relating theory to practice.

This qualification will form an important part of the national provision, both for those who have identified the field of Early Education and Childcare as their chosen career path and also for any candidates following a programme of study at Higher level who may wish to extend their educational experience.

This qualification suits a wide range of candidates.

It is ideally suited for:

• school leavers
• adult returners
• those in employment in the Early Education and Childcare sector as a basis for building on good practice, continuing professional development
• those who wish to progress to further study.

Candidates will be given a work placement in the early education and childcare sector gives the skills required by the sector.

Achievement is nationally recognised and certificated.

Successful completion will allow the candidate to register with the Scottish Social Services Council (SSSC) at support worker level.

Access

Entry is at the discretion of the centre. However, it is recommended that candidates have four Standard Grades at Credit level or equivalent and skills in oral and written communication. Consideration should also be given to candidates with relevant experience.
 

Candidates could progress to the HNC in Early Education and Childcare. In determining the structure of the Group Award, careful consideration has been given to candidate progression, either into employment or further study, and it is likely that centres will consider the content of the HNC and local employment requirements when considering the choice of optional Units.

The completion of this NC will allow candidates to register with the Scottish Social Services Council (SSSC) at support worker level.

As part of the regulatory requirements, support workers will be required to undergo continuous professional development and the component Units from this NC are suitable for this purpose.

Centres with devolved authority would be eligible to seek approval through their own internal approval process.

Centres without devolved authority will need to follow the normal SQA approval process and should contact the Business Development team for guidance in completing the combined CA1/SA1 form.

It is recommended that teachers/lecturers have suitable qualifications in the appropriate areas of childcare. There are a variety of qualifications which are deemed suitable for assessing in this area. These include:

• Social Sciences degree
• Diploma in Social Work
• Primary Education degree or diploma
• Nursery Nurse qualification