Preparing to Work in Adult Social Care Award Level 1

This course is accessed via a learning platform in which learners independently work through the learning materials. There are no classes or timetables to adhere to, and you can make your way through the online course when and where you please. Whether you’re on the go or have a free evening, you can study around your existing commitments, so you don’t have to compromise your routine.

The qualification is assessed by?assignments at the end of each module. The assignments will be designed to?challenge your learning to demonstrate you have met all the learning outcomes.?Each learning outcome must be met to pass this course.?

A dedicated tutor will be marking the assessments and offering feedback and guidance on questions that have not passed. You will have another opportunity to submit these questions to pass the unit. Your tutor is available for email support if you are struggling with the course content and need assistance. 

The course is particularly suitable for adult learners considering a career change, parents, volunteers and learners returning to education who would like to build their confidence and gain an understanding of early years practice before progressing to a higher-level qualification. Learners do not need to be working in an early years setting, although volunteering or gaining experience in an early years environment can be beneficial.

The qualification itself is intended as a foundation for further learning rather than direct entry to employment. However, it can help learners prepare for volunteering and work experience in nurseries, pre-schools, children’s centres and other early years settings. Further progression to Level 2 and Level 3 qualifications can support learners who wish to develop a career in early years education, childcare or related children’s services.

Level 2 courses, such as:

• Level 2 Certificate in Understanding Children and Young People’s Mental Health
• Level 2 Certificate in Mental Health Awareness
• Level 2 Certificate in Understanding Autism
• Level 2 Certificate in Special Educational Needs and Disability 
• Level 2 Introduction to Caring for Children and Young People

Each course adding to your skillset and making you a more employable candidate within child support, health and social care.

Unit 1: Principles of Play for Babies and Young Children

Learners explore the importance and value of play in supporting babies’ and young children’s development. This includes how play can contribute to children’s physical, social, emotional, language and cognitive development, as well as how appropriate activities and experiences can support learning and development.

Unit 2: Management and Organisation of Early Years Environments

This unit introduces learners to how early years environments are managed and organised to provide safe, supportive and stimulating experiences for children. Learners develop an awareness of the importance of appropriate routines, resources, health and safety and creating an environment that meets children’s needs.

Unit 3: Principles of Community Development in Early Years Settings

Learners explore the importance of developing links with families, communities and other services. The unit helps learners understand how effective community links can support children and families and contribute to positive outcomes for children.

Unit 4: Roles and Responsibilities in Early Years Settings

Learners develop an understanding of the roles and responsibilities of adults working or volunteering in early years settings. This includes appropriate professional behaviour, working as part of a team and understanding the responsibilities involved in supporting young children.