Early Learning and Childcare: NQ (Level 5)
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Course overview
Develop the confidence, knowledge, and practical skills to make a real difference in children’s lives.
This NC Level 6 course offers an integrated blend of theory, practice and professional placement designed to prepare you for a rewarding career in Early Learning and Childcare.
You’ll explore how children grow, learn, and interact with the world around them, learning how to plan play experiences that promote wellbeing, inclusion, and development. The course also encourages you to reflect on your own values, attitudes, and approaches as you gain a deeper understanding of professional responsibility in childcare.
A major component of the course is placement-based learning. You’ll spend two days per week in a nursery setting throughout the course, applying what you learn in class to real-life situations. This hands-on experience helps you develop professional relationships with children, families, and colleagues — giving you the confidence and practical insight needed for employment or advanced study.
By the end of the course, you’ll have a solid foundation in child development, protection, inclusion, and care practice, as well as the professional skills and awareness required to progress to HNC Childhood Practice or employment within the sector.
This course is ideal for:
- Learners who have completed an NQ Level 5 Childcare or related qualification.
- Adults or school leavers with a genuine interest in supporting children’s development.
- Those aiming for a career in early learning, childcare, or additional support settings.
- Individuals who want to combine academic learning with hands-on experience.
What you will learn
You’ll build your skills and professional understanding across a broad range of topics, including:
- Planning for Practice: Workplace Experience – learning through professional placement.
- Sociology of Childhood – understanding social influences on children’s lives.
- Providing an Inclusive Curriculum – creating supportive learning environments.
- Protecting and Promoting the Rights of the Child – safeguarding and child protection.
- Child Development & Theory – exploring physical, cognitive and emotional growth.
- Services for Children and Young People – learning how care services are structured.
- Working with Additional Support Needs – inclusive strategies and approaches.
- Understanding Mental Health Issues – supporting wellbeing in early learning contexts.
- HIV, Hepatitis B & C Awareness – understanding health issues relevant to childcare.
You’ll also develop reflective practice and teamwork skills to prepare for future professional registration and employment.
Entry requirements
✅ Four qualifications at SCQF Level 5 (e.g. National 5, Standard Grade Band 2+, or Intermediate 2), including English. OR
✅ Successful completion of a Level 5 childcare qualification such as NQ Early Learning & Childcare or NPA Playwork and Childcare will also be considered.
✅ You will be required to join the PVG scheme administered by Disclosure Scotland before undertaking work placement.
If you have any recorded offences, these must be discussed confidentially at your interview.
✅ Interview and Selection Process:
- Selection for interview will also be based on the content of a personal statement which should evidence your interest in learning about the care and education of children
- You will be invited for an interview to discuss your experience and interest in the profession and find out more about the course
- You will complete a written task as part of the interview process.
- You must provide two references, one of which should be from your most recent educational provider or employer.
- Please bring proof of your qualifications if invited for interview.
ℹ️ Applicants must be 16 years or older at the start of the course.
ℹ️ For this course, if English is not your first language
- you need to have SQA ESOL Higher (or equivalent, click here to see equivalent qualifications)
- If you do not have a formal ESOL qualification but your language skills meet this level, you should apply for your course and then contact our Admissions team to organise an internal language assessment here at the College.
Career Opportunities
This course prepares you for work in a range of early years and childcare settings, including:
👶 Nursery or Early Years Assistant
🌈 Childcare Support Worker
🏫 Classroom or Learning Support Assistant
💡 Playworker or Community Childcare Assistant
Future prospects
After successful completion, you can progress to:
- HNC Childhood Practice (subject to satisfactory placement reports and references)
- HNC Additional Support Needs
- SVQ Level 3 Social Services (Children and Young People)
These qualifications can lead to registration with the Scottish Social Services Council (SSSC) and open doors to professional careers across the childcare sector.
