Children's Care, Learning & Development BTEC National Diploma

Course code: FTB067

School of Health, Fitness & Supported Learning

The Programme

This programme is equivalent to three A Levels, but is based on coursework and assessment of skills in practice rather than exams. It is a very fast moving and demanding programme which requires you to link theory to practice both in college and during work placements. You will complete a reflective practitioner portfolio whilst on work experience. The course covers a wide variety of topics/units which relate to the theory and practice of children's care learning and development, plus there is a requirement to satisfactorily complete 800 hours of assessed work experience within four different early years settings. The evidence gathered during work experience within your portfolio leads, when successfully completed, to Qualified Practitioner Status as a Level 3 practitioner.

The Programme Content

A demanding, but exciting and rewarding qualification that will not only provide you with UCAS points on successful completion, but you will also gain Qualified Practitioner Status. During the course you will also have the opportunity to undertake additional qualifications to improve your employability skills, as well as develop your knowledge and skills professionally.

Entry Requirements

Five GCSEs at grade C or above (one of which must be English Language) and ideally Maths and science if you are considering progressing onto university. At interview you will need to demonstrate effective communication skills, as this is a vital component of this course. Offers will be subject to a satisfactory Criminal Record Bureau (CRB) check and Fitness to Train assessment.

Costs

Although work placements are made with consideration to individual needs and transport routes, there may be costs involved for the students. You will need appropriate clothing for placement. There may also be costs incurred for printing work, buying stationary and a course text book. You will have to pay for an enhanced CRB check, please see CRB Checks information below.

Venue

Barnstaple, Main Site

Progression

Many students progress to higher education, usually to early childhood studies, early years teaching or nursing, although the UCAS points that can be gained would give access to many other programmes of study. Many students progress directly to employment both locally and abroad. We also offer a Foundation Degree in Early Childhood Studies at Petroc and this is proving a very popular route to gain the first two years of a full honours degree in this area.

Length of Study

Two years.

Academic Year

This course starts in the 2013 / 2014 academic year.

DBS Checks

As this course requires you to undertake work placements with children and/or vulnerable adults, a DBS check (formerly CRB check) is required. This will be carried out by Petroc prior to you starting the course in September and costs £53. Please click on the following link for