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  • August
  • Full-Time
  • 1 year
  • Early Education and Childcare
  • SCQF Level 5

National 5 Childcare and Play work

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Intro to the course:

The National 5 Childcare and Playwork course is designed to progress your learning in childcare, early education and the process of play. 

Using a variety of innovative and forward thinking techniques, you will be able to develop a strong knowledge base on early education theories as practices, whilst also developing the underpinning knowledge of play and the importance of it for children. 

Our experienced lecturing team will guide and support you through the units, helping you think reflectively on your practice and development whilst also using current industry standards to ensure you are well equipped to progress in the exciting sector. 

Early education is a critical aspect of child development and you will learn why this is the case, as well as factors that can influence it. Practical applications of the knowledge you learn will be used in class. 

Qualification
SCQF Level 5

Study mode
Full-Time

Start date
31/08/2026

Who is the course for?

The National 5 Childcare course is designed to build on knowledge gained at National 4 level, whilst also supporting learners who are studying childcare for the first time. 

The range of subjects ensures that you develop underpinning knowledge in various aspects of childcare, whilst also completing reflective practice on your own skill set. 

 

What will I study?

You will cover a variety of topics including: 

  • Mental Health
  • Contemporary families
  • Play in ELC
  • Child Development
  • Reflective Practice
  • much more

Next step course options

On successful completion of the National 5 Childcare and Playwork course, you would look at progressing to the NC Childhood Practice which also incorporates a placement. 

How will I be assessed?

Assessments take a variety of formats: 

  • Open book
  • Posters
  • Presentations
  • Short reports. 

Our on campus Extended learning team can provide support and advice to you to ensure your learning and assessment needs are met. 

Why should I choose this course?

The National 5 Childcare course is ideal if you are looking to progress or start your childcare journey. You may be considering Early Years Practitioner, Team leader at a Nursery, teaching or an education support assistant at a school. This course is a great starting point for those careers

Where can this course lead?

The National 5 Childcare and Playwork course can help support your journey towards Early Years Practitioner, Teaching, Education Support Assistance and Team Leader at Nursery

What are the entry requirements?

The minimum entry qualifications for this course are: 

  • Four National 4 qualifications ad a grade C or above or
  • Completion of National 4 Childcare course. 
  • Reference or letter of recommendation
  • Successful interview. 

If you are not successful in gaining a space on this course, we may offer you a space on another course. 

What are the interview arrangements?

You will be interviewed by a member of the course team on campus.

Fees, finance and funding

Fees for full time is £1008

This course is eligible for Bursary.

Please note, fees are subject to change, please double-check this when enrolling in your course

If you are unsuccessful in your Bursary application, you may be liable for the full cost of course

For more information please visit the finance pages - Fees, finance and funding options.

Other information:

There is no placement within the National 5 course, however we bring in external speakers and also go out on visits and trips to enhance and build your learning experience.


Full time course: 2.5 days a week

Need more help?

Would you like to speak to someone about your application today? We’d love to hear from you.

You can drop into the Student Advice Centre between 8.45am and 4.30pm, Monday to Friday.

Tel: 01355 270750
Email: admissions@slc.ac.uk

Choose your study options

Study mode Full-Time Start date 31/08/2026 Duration 1 year
Apply now