Thornleigh Sixth Form Early Child Development

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The AAQ Pearson BTEC National Extended Certificate in Early Childhood Development aims to provide you with applied knowledge and skills in Education and Early Years and allows you to engage in a broad investigation of the children’s care and education sector (0-8 years).

The qualification is equivalent in size to one A Level, and you will take this qualification alongside other A Levels and/or AAQs.

This qualification requires you to explore some difficult topics, so it is important to ensure you are comfortable learning about the following: Child protection and welfare; Safeguarding; Child abuse - physical abuse and injury, neglect, emotional abuse, sexual abuse and domestic abuse.

Entry Requirements

The general Thornleigh Sixth Form entry criteria will be applied.

What will I Study?

There are four mandatory units which are:

• Unit 1: Children’s Development

• Unit 2: Keeping Children Safe

• Unit 3: Play and Learning

• Unit 4: Research and Reflective Practice in an Early Childhood Setting

Which exam board is used and how will I be assessed?

The exam board is Pearson.

• Unit 1: Children’s Development - This Unit is externally assessed. You will sit a 1 hour and 45 minute exam, with a total of 80 marks available.

• Unit 2: Keeping Children Safe - This Unit is externally assessed. You will sit a 1 hour and 45 minute exam, with a total of 80 marks available.

• Unit 3: Play and Learning - This Unit is internally assessed. You will be given a Pearson Set Assignment Brief containing three tasks. For each task, a set of assessment criteria is given, covering pass, merit and distinction.

• Unit 4: Research and Reflective Practice in an Early Childhood Setting - This Unit is internally assessed. You will be given a Pearson Set Assignment Brief containing three tasks. For each task, a set of assessment criteria is given, covering pass, merit and distinction.

Each Unit is weighted at 25% of the final grade awarded.

Where could this subject take me?

Early Years Practitioner:

Role: Work directly with children, providing care, learning support, and helping with developmental milestones.
Settings: Nurseries, preschools, childminding, and early years classrooms.
Key Responsibilities: Safeguarding children, planning and implementing activities, supporting children's learning, and maintaining records.

Family Support Worker:

Role: Support families and children who may face challenges in accessing early childhood services.
Settings: Local government, family support services, and community organizations.
Key Responsibilities: Helping families with accessing services, providing parenting support, and advocating for children's needs.

Early Years Educator:

Role: Deliver early years education, focusing on supporting the development of children in their early years (usually within a preschool or nursery setting).
Settings: Preschools, nurseries, early years centers.
Key Responsibilities: Planning and delivering educational activities, tracking children's progress, and creating a safe and enriching environment for learning.

Nursery Manager / Early Years Manager:

Role: Oversee the running of a nursery or early years setting, including staffing, curriculum development, and ensuring compliance with regulations.
Settings: Nursery schools, daycare centers, private early years settings.
Key Responsibilities: Managing staff, creating educational plans, maintaining health and safety standards, and liaising with parents.

How can I get ahead in this subject

Understand Legislation and Policies:

Be familiar with the key policies, laws, and guidelines in early childhood education, such as:

Safeguarding Children and Vulnerable Adults (e.g., The Children Act 1989/2004 in the UK).
Equality Act 2010 (to understand inclusive practices).
EYFS Framework (if in the UK) or equivalent early years frameworks in other countries.

Resources You Can Use:

Books: Look for specific books recommended by your course provider or official curriculum guides.
Websites: Sites like the National Day Nurseries Association (NDNA) or Pre-School Learning Alliance (PSLA) are great for up-to-date practices and resources.
Videos/Online Learning Platforms: Websites like FutureLearn or YouTube channels focused on early childhood education.