Childcare and education
CACHE level 3 diploma
Two-years (equivalent to three A-levels)
If you hope to one day work in childcare, nursing or teaching then this course is ideal for you. Through a mixture of practical and theoretical work and work experience you will learn about a range of care-related topics.
Required qualifications
Four or more A*–C grades at GCSE and a grade D in mathematics or English language. Or a full level two pass in a related subject plus two other GCSEs at grade C or above. You will also need to provide evidence of a successful work placement with children. Entry requirements for students currently studying an intermediate vocational course will be based on their performance at intermediate level.
What will I study?
The course will focus on:
- working with young children and babies
- the foundation to caring
- the developing child and play activities
- health and community care
- curriculum and early learning
- provision of services and protection of children.
On the course you will:
- gain work experience in a variety of environments, such as a nursery and primary school
- work with experienced teachers and professional practitioners
- develop a portfolio of observations, curriculum and activity plans.
Method of assessment
A supervisor will assess your practical work with children and you will write an assignment for each unit of the course. You will sit one exam in the first year and two in the second year.
What will I be able to progress to?
The CACHE diploma is recognised as being suitable for entry to higher education including primary teaching and nursing. This course prepares you to care for and educate children aged 0–8 years in roles such as a playgroup supervisor, nursery officer or a children’s representative for a holiday company. If you wish to progress to nursing, midwifery or radiography you will need to have achieved a grade C in science and a grade D in both English language and mathematics when you begin this level 3 course.
Other information
You will be required to complete a Criminal Records Bureau form confirming that you have no criminal convictions that prevent you from working with children or vulnerable adults. It will be administered by the college at the start of the course.