Our Pre-Entry Early Years programme is designed to inspire and prepare individuals for a rewarding career supporting young children in their crucial early stages of development. Through a blend of theoretical knowledge and practical skills, learners gain a strong understanding of child development, safeguarding, learning through play, and the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS).

The programme equips learners with the knowledge, skills and professional behaviours required to support children's learning, development and wellbeing within nursery, childcare and educational settings. Learners develop an understanding of equality, diversity, inclusion and professional practice, whilst building the confidence, resilience and employability skills needed to succeed in the workplace.

Aligned to local employer needs, the programme provides a clear progression pathway into nursery support and childminding roles, apprenticeships and higher-level Early Years qualifications, helping to develop a skilled and work-ready workforce for the education and childcare sector.

Course Information

  • Course Type Part-Time Course
  • Study Mode Varied Learning
  • Course Code PEARLPEXX
  • Start November
  • Length 4 weeks
  • Level Level E
  • Campus
    Aylesbury
  • Entry Requirements

    Have an interest in working with children and supporting their learning and development. Demonstrate a positive attitude, willingness to learn and commitment to attending the programme. Be able to work respectfully with others and demonstrate appropriate behaviour for working in an educational environment. Be prepared to participate in practical activities, group discussions and independent learning tasks. Ideally be aged 19 and over

  • Example Modules
    • Safeguarding and Child Development Learning through Play and EYFS Health, Safety and Wellbeing Practical Nursery Activities and Challenges Communication and Inclusive Practice Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Professional Relationships in Education Behaviour and Wellbeing Awareness Employability Skills Development CV Writing and Job Applications Interview Preparation Employer Engagement Activities Careers and Progression Guidance
  • What will I learn?

    Child Development – Understanding the stages of children's physical, emotional, social and cognitive development.

    Safeguarding and Child Protection – Recognising the importance of keeping children safe and understanding the responsibilities of those working with children.

    Learning Through Play – Exploring how play supports children's learning, development and wellbeing.

    The Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) – Understanding the EYFS framework and how it supports children's learning and progress.

    Supporting Children's Learning and Development – Learning practical ways to encourage communication, creativity, confidence and independence.

    Equality, Diversity and Inclusion – Promoting inclusive practice and creating environments where every child can thrive.

    Professional Practice – Developing an understanding of the roles, responsibilities and behaviours expected within childcare and educational settings.

    Employability and Work Readiness – Building teamwork, communication, problem-solving and resilience skills valued by employers.

    Health, Safety and Wellbeing – Understanding how to create safe, nurturing and healthy environments for children.

    Career Progression Opportunities – Exploring pathways into nursery support roles, childminding, apprenticeships and higher-level Early Years qualifications.

    By the end of the programme, learners will have developed the confidence, knowledge and practical skills needed to take their first steps towards a rewarding career supporting children's learning, development and wellbeing.

  • Progression

    Aligned to local employer needs, the programme provides a clear progression pathway into nursery support and childminding roles, apprenticeships and higher-level Early Years qualifications, helping to develop a skilled and work-ready workforce for the education and childcare sector.

  • How am I assessed?

    Written tasks and workbooks to demonstrate knowledge of topics such as child development, safeguarding and the EYFS. Practical activities and role-play to develop and assess communication, teamwork and professional behaviours. Presentations and discussions to build confidence and demonstrate understanding of key concepts. Tutor observations and feedback during individual and group activities.

Upcoming Events

10 November

Amersham

Open Event

Tuesday

Register for this event

12 November

Wycombe

Open Event

Thursday

Register for this event

14 November

Aylesbury

Open Event

Saturday

Register for this event

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Got a
question?

Whether you’ve got a question about applying, want to partner with us, need support during your studies, or simply want to speak to someone at your local campus, we’re ready to help you take your next step.

Aylesbury

Oxford Road
Aylesbury

Buckinghamshire

HP21 8PD

01296 588 588

Mon - Fri

8:30am - 5pm

Wycombe

Spring Lane, Flackwell Heath
High Wycombe
Buckinghamshire

HP10 9HE

01494 585 555

Mon - Fri
8:30am - 5pm

Amersham

Stanley Hill

Amersham
Buckinghamshire
HP7 9HN

01494 585 273

Mon - Fri

8:30am - 5pm