PATHWAYS TO EARLY EDUCATION AND CHILDHOOD PRACTICE

Intro to the course:

The Pathways program is a short course that is designed to give you the confidence and academic foundations to progress in your career pathways for Early Education and Childcare, with progression routes such as the PDA Education Support Assistant and NC Childhood Practice available. 

Through the study of topics such as Child Development, Play and Additional Support Needs you will begin to develop the underpinning knowledge for working in Early Years and Education. 

The course is delivered face to face on our campus, which provides access to IT facilities, free on site parking and catering facilities. 

Who is the course for?

This course if for individuals who are keen to start a career in progression and would like to start studying some key subjects.  We welcome applications from anyone interested in progressing their career in this field. 

What will I study?

You will study key topics within the Early Years and Education sector such as 

• Play in Early years
• Development of the Child. 

Additionally, you will consider Additional Support Needs, Mental Wellbeing and also your ICT skills. 

Next step course options

Following this course, you may progress into the PDA Education Support Assistant  or NC Childhood Practice. 

Please be aware, that there are entry criteria over and above completion of the Pathways program for the PDA and the NC Childhood Practice. 

How will I be assessed?

Assessments will take a variety of formats, which can include (but not limited to): 

• Posters 
• Open book
• Closed book
• Reports
• Presentations
• Group discussion

Your tutor will provide support and detail for the assessments as you progress. 

Why should I choose this course?

The course is arranged around school hours to support students who may have childcare responsibilities. Additionally, our experienced staff draw on their sector knowledge to ensure you receive a positive and engaging experience that is relevant to current sector practice. 

Where can this course lead?

Following successful completion of this course, you could progress into the PDA Education Support Assistance course which will allow you to work as an Education Assistant in various settings. 

The NC Childhood Practice course allows you to register as a Early Years Practitioner with the SSSC. 

Within the Pathways course, we aim to help you develop skills that support you in employment and personal development. 

What are the entry requirements?

The minimum entry requirements for the Pathways to PDA Education Support Assistant are: 

• Satisfactory Reference 
• Attendance at online / on campus interview. 

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

What are the interview arrangements?

You will be invited for a meeting with a member of the course team and further information about the course will be disseminated then

Fees, finance and funding

Fees for short full time is £375

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:

For more information on this course and to speak to a member of our team email admissions@slc.ac.uk