Childcare - Level 1 Diploma

The study programme introduces you to the skills and knowledge required to work with young children.

Topics covered can include:

• Sharing learning experiences with children
• Human growth and development
• Healthy living
• Supporting babies
• Self-development
• Preparing for the next steps

You will need:

• Four GCSEs at grade 2 or above, including GCSE English Language and Maths
• An Enhanced DBS check
• A reference from your previous school/college

All applicants must have an interview and assessment to confirm that the course is suitable for them.

The course is assessed throughout the year and with an end-of-course portfolio.

Aged 16-18

If you will be aged 16, 17 or 18 on 31st August prior to the start date of your course and you have the legal right to remain in the UK for the duration of your programme then your study with us will be free. Please see here for the documents you will need to show us.

Some courses will have other associated costs, such as for specialist materials and trips. Many of our students are eligible for financial support, see here for details.

This course will help you to move on to higher level courses, such as a Level 2 qualification or an apprenticeship.

Laura is a dedicated professional with a strong passion for working with children and a natural inclination towards caregiving. She started her career as a Nanny which led her to Canada BC, where she honed her childcare skills. Laura then gained invaluable knowledge and started training as a nursery nurse at a special needs nursery in Swiss Cottage.

With a desire to work with a wider age range of children, Laura took on a summer position at a one o'clock club and adventure playground, solidifying her aspiration to work with children aged 5-12. She excelled in play work, becoming the youngest team leader at Hempstead Heaths, managing three play sites over an impressive eight-year tenure.

During her time at Hampstead Heaths, Laura played a pivotal role in developing a national curriculum program to support schools throughout Camden, showcasing her dedication to educational excellence and innovative initiatives in childcare.

In 2006, seeking a new challenge, Laura joined a college as an assessor/teacher in further education (FE) and went to university to complete her PGCE in Teaching in the lifelong sector. She taught various subjects including play work, childcare and education, childminding, and Alternative provision, catering to both 16+ and 19+ age groups.

Laura's unwavering passion for outdoor learning led her to become a qualified forest school leader in 2021. Leveraging this expertise, she established a successful Sunday Forest school program, delivering enriching experiences during weekends and school holidays, reconnecting her with working directly with young children.

Melissa started her career in Further Education in 2003. Melissa specialises in Childcare and Education and has been teaching at City and Islington College for 20 years at the Marlborough building on Holloway Road, and then moved to the Centre for Arts Business and Technology. 

With 15 years working in various childcare settings prior to teaching, preparing others to work in this rewarding and vital area of expertise seemed like the next natural step as she has firsthand experience and a real passion for the education and welfare of young children. The childcare sector is a diverse and exuberant department, many of the staff have been part of the team for over 10 years.

Melissa has taught from entry level up to foundation degree in Childcare and enjoys observing how individuals succeed when they thought they could not, and how students gain a real passion for the work they go on to do.

With a journey spanning over two decades, Jennifer embarked on her childcare career in 1999, obtaining a Level 3 Certificate that laid the groundwork for her career path. Progressing to the role of Nursery Manager in 2005, Jennifer showcased leadership by successfully establishing a nursery. Over the subsequent 15 years until 2020, she excelled in team management, staff development, and personalized child education.  The responsibilities as Special Educational Needs Coordinator and Designated Safeguarding Lead underlined her commitment to well-being.

Furthering Jennifer’s education, she earned a degree in Early Childhood Studies in 2013 and completed a PGCE program in 2018, emphasizing her dedication to learning and pedagogy. Joining Capital City Group meant sharing expertise, teaching Cache courses from Level 1 to Level 3, and gaining a Certificate in Assessing Vocational Achievement in 2020, highlighting her commitment to growth.

As a Lecturer in Childcare at City and Islington College, Jennifer now shapes future educators, drawing from her extensive experience. Jennifer’s journey underscores continuous learning, collaboration, and a nurturing environment for students and children. In over two decades, her dedication has significantly impacted childcare and education, demonstrating the value of lifelong learning and steadfast commitment.

The teachers listed may change, these shown are an example of the teachers who teach on these programmes.