CC Education Academy
Licensed as a Higher Education Institution by the MFHEA
Licence no. 2022-019

The Programme

The Undergraduate Diploma in Early Childhood Education and Care [Level 5] is a programme designed to equip and train students with the essential theoretical knowledge and practical skills needed for a successful career in early childhood education and care. This programme encompasses a range of modules [see each module description] that explore critical areas such as child development, effective communication with parents, observation techniques, children’s rights and equity, health and safety practices, hygiene essentials, nutrition for babies and young children, physical care, communication skills development, reflective practice, child-led approaches, and hands-on experience through practical work placements. Central to the programme is the integration of diverse pedagogies that support young children’s holistic development. Students will engage with play-based pedagogies, recognising the vital role of paly in children’s learning, creativity, and emotional wellbeing. The curriculum also emphasises participatory pedagogies, encouraging children to take an active role in their own learning and decision-making, thereby fostering independence and self-confidence. Additionally, social pedagogy is embedded throughout the programme, focusing on the importance of relationships, community, and supporting children’s social and emotional growth. By engaging in both theoretical study and practical application, students will develop the skills and competencies necessary to create nurturing, inclusive and safe environments that support the holistic development of babies and young children while adhering to the sector’s standards and best practices in the area of child care and early childhood learning. Ultimately, this award prepares students to become confident and reflective practitioners dedicated to fostering positive outcomes for children and families in their care. (MQF Level 5)

Course Content

Growing Minds – Understanding Child Development
4ECTSs (equivalent to 100 total hours, which include self-study and assessment hours)
Mode of delivery: Online Lectures, Forum Discussion, Reading

This module offers an in-depth study of child development from birth to age 5, covering physical, cognitive, social, and emotional growth, while examining major theories and influential factors. Emphasizing play-based, participatory, and social pedagogies, it equips students with observation and assessment skills crucial for creating inclusive, developmentally supportive environments. By integrating theory with practical application, the module prepares students to foster curiosity, creativity, and well-being in children, empowering them for impactful work in early childhood education and care.
Assessment methods: Forum Discussion & Case Study

Safe Spaces: Health and Safety Practices
4ECTSs (equivalent to 100 total hours, which include self-study and assessment hours)
Mode of delivery: Online Lectures, Forum Discussion, Reading

This module prepares students to create and maintain safe, healthy environments for children by covering crucial aspects of health and safety in childcare, such as risk assessment, accident prevention, emergency procedures, hygiene, safe sleep, food safety, and medication administration. Through practical exercises and case studies, students develop skills to conduct thorough safety checks, establish effective safety practices, and respond confidently to various scenarios. Integrating play-based, participatory, and social pedagogies, the module encourages children’s active engagement in learning about safety through enjoyable activities and decision-making. By the end, students will be equipped to foster a culture of safety, support children’s wellbeing, and ensure compliance with relevant standards in childcare settings. Assessment methods: Forum Discussion & Creation of Resources

Expressing Ourselves: Development of Communication Skills
4ECTSs (equivalent to 100 total hours, which include self-study and assessment hours)
Mode of delivery: Online Lectures, Forum Discussion, Reading

This module equips students with the knowledge and practical skills necessary to support children’s communication development in early childhood settings. It covers key aspects of language acquisition, effective strategies for enhancing both verbal and non-verbal communication, and early identification of communication difficulties. Students will explore creating language-rich environments, implementing questioning techniques, supporting multilingualism, and using storytelling and technology to promote language skills. Emphasizing play-based pedagogy, the module encourages interactive, imaginative activities that nurture children’s language and confidence. Participatory and social pedagogies are also integrated, empowering children to actively shape their own learning and fostering inclusive, supportive communities. By the end of the module, students will be prepared to design and maintain environments that promote effective communication for all children, aligned with current curriculum guidelines and best practices in early education.
Assessment Methods: Forum Discussion & Case Study

Children Lead: Implementing a Child-Led Approach
4ECTSs (equivalent to 100 total hours, which include self-study and assessment hours)
Mode of delivery: Online Lectures, Forum Discussion, Reading

This module equips students with the knowledge and skills needed to implement child-led practices in childcare settings, focusing on child-centered learning theories, observation techniques, and responsive strategies for following children’s interests. Students will learn to create enabling environments that support child-initiated play, balance routines with flexible activities, and document children’s learning and decision-making processes. The module emphasizes play-based learning as central to fostering exploration, creativity, and self-directed growth, while also incorporating participatory and social pedagogies to promote children’s active involvement, positive relationships, and a sense of community. By the end, students will be prepared to create inclusive, empowering environments that honor children’s autonomy and engagement, ensuring holistic development in line with early years curriculum guidelines.
Assessment Methods: Forum Discussion & Creation of Resources

Communication with Care: Parent Engagement Strategies
4ECTSs (equivalent to 100 total hours, which include self-study and assessment hours)
Mode of delivery: Online Lectures, Forum Discussion, Reading

This module equips students with the skills and knowledge to build effective partnerships between childcare professionals and parents through strong, respectful communication. Emphasizing the importance of parent engagement in children’s development and wellbeing, the module develops students’ abilities in active listening, inclusive dialogue, and building trust across diverse families. Practical exercises and case studies enable students to manage challenging conversations and use technology to enhance communication with parents. The curriculum promotes play-based learning as a bridge between home and childcare settings, encouraging parental participation in children’s learning and helping families understand the value of play in development. Participatory and social pedagogies are woven throughout, supporting collaborative relationships and a strong sense of community within the setting. By the end, students will be prepared to create inclusive, supportive environments that empower families, foster shared understanding, and promote positive outcomes for every child.
Assessment Methods: Forum Discussion & Case Study

Seeing Clearly: Effective Observation Techniques
4ECTSs (equivalent to 100 total hours, which include self study and assessment hours)
Mode of delivery: Online Lectures, Forum Discussion, Reading

This module trains students to professionally and ethically observe children’s behavior, development, and learning through a variety of methodologies and documentation techniques. Emphasizing objectivity and reflective practice, students learn to conduct meaningful observations that inform educational planning, identify support needs, and understand each child’s unique developmental path. Play-based learning is central, enabling students to interpret authentic behaviors and learning in child-led contexts. The module also integrates participatory and social pedagogies, encouraging children’s agency and fostering positive, collaborative learning environments. By the end, students will be able to conduct observations that are inclusive, respectful, and instrumental in supporting children’s holistic development and wellbeing. Assessment Methods: Forum Discussion & Report Writing Assignment

Rights and Recognition: Children’s Rights and Equity
4ECTSs (equivalent to 100 total hours, which include self-study and assessment hours)
Mode of delivery: Online Lectures, Forum Discussion, Reading

This module provides students with a thorough understanding of children’s rights and equity within childcare settings, focusing on the practical application of the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child. It addresses the significance of respecting children’s individuality, cultural backgrounds, and diverse needs while fostering inclusive and supportive environments. Key topics include child participation, non-discrimination, and prioritizing each child’s best interests. Using case studies, discussions, and practical exercises, students learn to advocate for children’s rights and integrate equitable practices into daily care. The module places play-based learning at its core, recognizing play as both a fundamental right and an essential avenue for self-expression and development. Additionally, participatory and social pedagogies are emphasized to empower children, encourage decision-making, and nurture a sense of community and belonging. By the end, students are prepared to promote children’s rights and equity, creating environments where every child is respected, included, and able to reach their potential. Assessment Methods: Forum Discussion & Project Based Assignment

Keeping it Clean: Hygiene Essentials for Child Care
4ECTSs (equivalent to 100 total hours, which include self-study and assessment hours)
Mode of delivery: Online Lectures, Forum Discussion, Reading

This module equips students with essential knowledge and practical skills to maintain hygienic environments in childcare settings, covering topics such as infection control, handwashing, sanitation, food hygiene, and safe handling of bodily fluids and contaminated materials. Students learn to establish effective routines, develop hygiene plans, conduct cleanliness checks, and confidently manage hygiene-related incidents. Incorporating play-based learning, the module demonstrates how playful songs, stories, and role-play can help children adopt healthy habits in engaging, memorable ways. Participatory and social pedagogies are also emphasized, encouraging children to take active roles in keeping their environment clean and fostering responsibility, cooperation, and community. By the end, students are prepared to create and uphold a culture of cleanliness in accordance with health regulations, making good hygiene a shared and meaningful experience for all. Assessment Methods: Forum Discussion & Project Based Assignment

Feeding Futures: Nutrition for Young Children
4ECTSs (equivalent to 100 total hours, which include self-study and assessment hours)
Mode of delivery: Online Lectures, Forum Discussion, Reading

This module prepares students to effectively support healthy nutrition in childcare settings by covering key topics such as children’s nutritional requirements at various developmental stages, balanced meal planning, food allergies, and positive eating habits. Students learn to design inclusive menus, address cultural and breastfeeding considerations, and encourage healthy food choices in young children. Throughout the module, play-based learning is emphasized, using activities like cooking games and sensory exploration to teach children about nutrition in a fun and engaging way. Participatory pedagogies empower children to take an active role in food preparation and choices, while social pedagogies promote collaboration and community during shared meals. By the end, students will be equipped to create supportive, safe, and inclusive environments that foster lifelong healthy eating habits and comply with all relevant nutritional and food safety standards. Assessment Methods: Forum Discussion & Project Based Assignment

Caring Touch: Physical Care for Children
4ECTSs (equivalent to 100 total hours, which include self-study and assessment hours)
Mode of delivery: Online Lectures, Forum Discussion, Reading

This module provides students with the essential knowledge and practical skills to deliver nurturing physical care to babies and young children, covering areas such as diapering, bathing, dressing, grooming, safe sleep practices, and basic pediatric first aid. Students learn to recognize signs of illness, conduct health checks, and respect cultural differences in caregiving. The curriculum integrates play-based learning by using playful routines and role-play to involve children in their own care, making these experiences enjoyable and educational. Participatory and social pedagogies are emphasized to encourage children’s independence in self-care and to foster empathy, positive relationships, and a sense of community. By the end of the module, students are prepared to create inclusive, supportive environments that prioritize children’s physical comfort, emotional wellbeing, and holistic development, while adhering to care standards and regulations. Assessment Methods: Forum Discussion & Creation of Resources

Reflective Practitioners: Learning from Experience
4ECTSs (equivalent to 100 total hours, which include self-study and assessment hours)
Mode of delivery: Online Lectures, Forum Discussion, Reading

This module equips students with the comprehensive knowledge and practical skills needed to engage in meaningful reflective practice within childcare settings. It covers key reflective models, critical incident analysis, and the use of reflective journals, helping students evaluate and improve their own professional practice through self-assessment and feedback. The module emphasizes ethical and collaborative reflection, encourages the use of reflection for informed decision-making, and integrates play-based learning as a valuable context for observing and enhancing children’s experiences. Participatory and social pedagogies are also central, fostering collaborative reflection with children, families, and colleagues to build a shared understanding and strong sense of community. By the end, students are prepared to create a culture of ongoing professional growth and reflective practice, supporting improved outcomes and a nurturing, child-centered environment for all. Assessment Methods: Forum Discussion & Reflective Writing Assignment

Hands-On Experience: Practical Work Placement
16ECTSs (equivalent to 400 total hours, which include self-study and assessment hours)
Mode of delivery: Online Lectures, Forum Discussion, Reading

This module forms a core part of the Undergraduate Diploma in Childcare Education (MQF Level 5) and immerses students in supervised, real-world childcare placements where they apply theoretical knowledge in practice. Through participation in daily care routines, collaboration with experienced practitioners, and activity planning, students learn essential professional skills like teamwork, communication with families, and adherence to workplace policies. Reflective journals, debriefings, and portfolio development enable students to analyze and demonstrate professional growth. The module centers on play-based learning, encouraging students to create child-centered, engaging environments and to observe, support, and facilitate meaningful play. Participatory and social pedagogies underpin the experience, promoting agency, positive relationships, and inclusive practice. By the end, students gain practical confidence, bridge theory with hands-on experience, and are prepared for meaningful careers supporting children’s holistic development in collaborative, responsive settings. Assessment Methods: Practicum Visit & Interview

General Information

Course delivery: ONLINE
Course duration: 36 weeks on a part time basis OR 24 weeks on full time basis
Date of next intake: Periodically - Interested students are to register their interest and be contacted once another intake is announced
Language of Delivery: English/ Maltese
Placement hours: 200hrs
Price: €1400 + €20 registration fee – If taken as a top-up, the course fees are reduced to €1000 + €20 registration fee
Total Hours (which includes self-study and assessment hours calculated according to the MFHEA guidelines) – 1500 hrs / 1100 hrs if the student is already in possession of the Award in Child care or equivalent

Entry requirements
Students need to be in possession of:

O’level qualification in Maltese, English and Maths
OR
MQF Level 3 in Maths, Maltese and English
OR
Present a pass in the Maths, Maltese and English LSE Exams https://myexams.gov.mt/
OR
Award in Child Care or equivalent, in which case they will be exempted from Module 1-4

Target Audience
Students who wish to pursue a career in Child Care Education, and Kindergarten Educators (KGE I and II)

Grading
The grading system uses the following boundaries:
A: 80–100%
B: 60–79%
C: 45–59%
Fail: 0–44%

Student Success Rate
Programme has been accredited in August 2025, and no relevant statistics have been gathered yet.

Learning Outcomes

Undergraduate Diploma in Early Childhood Education and Care– MQF5 – 60ECTSs

Part time – 36 weeks - 1500hrs, Full time – 24 weeks – 1500hrs

Programme Learning Outcomes
By the end of the programme, the learner will be able to:

Collaborate effectively with colleagues, families, and professionals in childcare settings.
Comply with relevant regulations, standards, and ethical guidelines in early childhood.
Ensure the implementation of developmentally appropriate practices that support children’s holistic growth.
Be responsible for creating and maintaining safe, inclusive, and nurturing environments for children.
Carry out tasks related to children’s daily care, learning, and development with professionalism and empathy.
Guide children’s behaviour positively, promoting self-regulation and social-emotional development.
Supervise children’s activities, ensuring their safety and engagement in meaningful experiences.
Monitor children’s progress and wellbeing through systematic observation and assessment.
Manage resources efficiently to support high-quality care and education.
Create comprehensive plans that address children’s individual needs and interests.
Produce accurate and timely documentation of children’s learning and development.
Represent the childcare profession with integrity and dedication to best practices.
Negotiate constructive solutions to challenges in childcare settings.
Ensure the implementation of hygiene and safety practices that protect children’s health.
Be responsible for promoting children’s rights and equity in all aspects of care and education.
Mange the implementation of nutrition plans that support children’s health and development.
Create environments and experiences that foster children’s communication skills.
Produce reflective analyses of professional practices to drive continuous improvement.
Ensure the application of child-led approaches that respect children’s autonomy and interests.
Design play-rich environments that stimulate creativity, problem-solving, and self-regulation through child-led exploration.
Facilitate play experiences that align with developmental milestones, fostering emotional wellbeing, collaboration, and early literacy and numeracy skills.
Use play as a diagnostic tool to observe and assess children’s cognitive, social, and emotional growth.
Engage children as co-learners in decision-making, allowing them to set goals, negotiate rules, and direct activities.
Scaffold child-led inquiry through open-ended questions, collaborative problem-solving, and reflection.
Support children’s agency by integrating their interests, cultural funds of knowledge, and lived experiences into curriculum planning.
Build nurturing relationships that promote trust, empathy, and a sense of belonging within diverse communities.
Model prosocial behaviours to guide children in resolving conflicts, respecting others’ perspectives, and practicing fairness.
Create inclusive environments that celebrate diversity, advocate for children’s rights, and address inequities.
Define key theories and principles of child development across various domains.
Describe how play-based pedagogies support cognitive, social, and emotional development.
Explain participatory pedagogies and their role in fostering agency and self-regulation.
Outline the principles of social pedagogy and their importance in inclusive relationships.
Describe effective strategies for engaging and communicating with parents and families.
Identify appropriate observation techniques for assessing children’s learning and development.
List the fundamental rights of children as outline in the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child.
Recall essential health and safety practices required in childcare settings.
Define proper hygiene protocols for maintaining a clean and healthy childcare environment.
Describe nutritional requirements for babies and young children at different developmental stages.
Identify best practices for providing physical care to children of various ages.
List strategies for supporting children’s communication and language development.
Define reflective practice and its importance in professional growth.
Describe the principles of child-led learning approaches in early childhood education.
Recall the key components of effective teamwork in childcare settings.
Identify key milestones in children’s social-emotional development.
List the components of high-quality early childhood education programmes
Demonstrate proficiency in implementing developmentally appropriate practices.
Apply effective communication strategies when interacting with children, families, and colleagues.
Practice systematic observation techniques to assess children’s development and learning.
Show competence in planning and implementing engaging learning experiences for children.
Demonstrate adaptability in responding to children’s diverse needs and interests.
Apply principles of inclusive practice to support all children’s participation.
Apply theories of child development to create age-appropriate learning experiences that support children’s holistic growth.
Demonstrate effective observation techniques to assess and document children’s developmental progress and learning needs.
Design and implement emergent curriculum activities that foster children’s curiosity, creativity, and problem-solving skills.
Create inclusive learning environments that care to diverse learners, including those with special educational needs.
Employ effective communication strategies to build positive relationships with families and collaborate on children’s development.
Implement health and safety practices to ensure a secure environment for children in early childhood settings.
Utilise reflective practice techniques to continuously improve their professional skills and pedagogical approaches.
Demonstrate proficiency in providing physical care for babies and young children, including feeding and dressing.
Implement strategies to promote children’s communication skills development across various domains.
Apply principles of children’s rights and equity to create fair and inclusive early childhood environments.
Conduct basic health assessments and respond appropriately to common childhood health issues.
Utilise sociograms and other observational tools to assess and support children’s social development.
Demonstrate professional competence in practical work placements, applying theoretical knowledge to real-world childcare settings.
Design and facilitate play-based learning experiences that support children’s agency, creativity, problem-solving, and collaboration.
Use intentional teaching strategies (e.g. questioning, modelling, scaffolding) to extend children’s learning and enjoyment during play-based activities.
Support children’s participation in decision-making and planning activities, fostering independence and self-confidence.
Implement group-work and cooperative learning strategies (e.g. think-pair-share, jigsaw, buzz groups) to develop children’s collaborative and communication skills.
Build and maintain nurturing, trusting relationships with children, families, and colleagues using principles of social pedagogy.
Model and guide prosocial behaviours, conflict resolution, and emotional regulation within group settings.
Adapt paly and learning environments to reflect children’s interests, cultural backgrounds, and individual needs.


Module 1: Growing Minds: Understanding Child Development
Module Learning Outcomes

Collaborate with colleagues to implement age-appropriate play-based activities that promote holistic child development from birth to age 5.
Apply knowledge of key theories and current research in child development to observe, assess, and document children’s progress across physical, cognitive, social, and emotional domains.
Adapt pedagogical approaches to meet the diverse developmental needs of children, incorporating participatory and social pedagogies to support individual growth and inclusion.
Create safe, stimulating, and inclusive environments that foster optimal development and wellbeing, in compliance with relevant childcare regulations and best practices.
Use appropriate assessment tools and methods to accurately document children’s developmental progress and identify potential areas of concern or need for additional support.
Carry out daily care routines that support healthy child development, integrating developmental knowledge into practice.
Communicate effectively with parents and caregivers, guiding them in understanding key developmental milestones and strategies to support their child’s growth at home.
Supervise and facilitate childcare activities, ensuring a nurturing developmentally appropriate, and play-based environment.
Monitor and evaluate children’s progress across all developmental domains, using observations to inform planning and support strategies.
Develop and implement individualised development plans based on observed needs, theoretical knowledge and collaborative input from colleagues and families.
Manage resources and learning materials effectively to create engaging, developmentally appropriate learning experiences that reflect current research and best practice.
Design and evaluate developmentally appropriate curricula that integrate key theories of child development and a range of pedagogical approaches, including play-based, participatory, and social pedagogies.
Produce comprehensive reports on children’s developmental progress for parents, colleagues, and other professionals using clear and professional language.
Demonstrate professional conduct and communication, representing best practices in early childhood development and fostering a culture of reflective practice.
Advise on the selection and use of age-appropriate toys, materials and digital resources that promote learning and development, in line with current research and best practice.
Critically analyse key theories and influential factors in child development from birth to age 5.
Describe and evaluate the physical, cognitive, social, and emotional aspects of child growth during the first five years of life, identifying major milestones and variations.
Apply theories such as Piaget’s stages of cognitive development and Vygotsky’s zones of proximal development to real-life observations and planning in early childhood settings.
Analyse primary attachment styles and their impact on children’s social-emotional development, using case studies and observations.
Conduct clear, objective, and meaningful observations of children across various settings, using appropriate assessment tools and methods.
Distinguish between typical and atypical development patterns and identify when to seek additional support or intervention.
Design and implement age-appropriate, play-based, and inclusive activities that promote holistic development for different age groups, and justify choices using current research and theory.
Evaluate and create well-designed early childhood learning environments that support optimal development, safety, and inclusion.
Apply effective strategies for supporting social-emotional development and fostering positive relationships and community within early childhood settings.
Develop and assess developmentally appropriate curricula that reflect key theories, current research, and a range of pedagogical approaches, including play-based, participatory, and social pedagogies.
Select and justify the use of appropriate assessment tools for evaluating different aspects of child development and use findings to inform planning and support.
Demonstrate understanding of major early childhood education approaches (e.g., Montessori, Reggio Emilia) by comparing and contrasting their features and applications in practice.
Use foundational theories of child development to analyse and respond to real-world scenarios in childcare settings
Demonstrate proficiency in observing and recording children’s behaviours and milestones across physical, cognitive, social and emotional domains
Select and apply appropriate assessment methods to monitor and support children’s development.
Design and implement activities that foster holistic development for children from birth to age 5, integrating play-based, participatory and social pedagogies.
Arrange physical spaces and resources to promote safe exploration, learning, and inclusivity for diverse age groups and abilities.
Prepare clear and informative progress reports for parents and caregivers, highlighting children’s growth and areas for support.
Apply evidence-based strategies and principles of positive guidance to manage group dynamics and address challenging behaviours.
Implement strategies to nurture social-emotional growth, resilience, and positive relationships among children.
Use common early childhood education resources and equipment safely and effectively.
Choose and integrate age-appropriate songs, rhymes, and stories to support early literacy and language development.
Modify learning experiences and environments to ensure accessibility and inclusion for children with diverse backgrounds and abilities.
Organize and maintain portfolios that document children’s developmental progress over time.
Establish collaborative relationships with families to support consistent developmental approaches between home and childcare settings.
Demonstrate proficiency in observing and documenting child behaviours across different developmental domains from birth to age 5
Apply key theories of child development to create age-appropriate activities that promote holistic growth in babies and young children
Show competence in using various child assessment tools to evaluate physical, cognitive, social, and emotional development
Practice effective communication strategies with young children to support their language and literacy development
Design supportive and stimulating learning environments that foster optimal development for different age groups within early childhood settings
Use digital observation tools and apps to record and analyse child development milestones efficiently
Create digital portfolios showcasing children’s developmental progress over time using appropriate software or platforms
Utilise online resources and databases to access current research and best practices in early childhood development
Implement age-appropriate educational technology and digital learning materials to support cognitive development in young children
Apply digital communication tools to prepare and share comprehensive developmental progress reports with parents and caregivers

Module 2: Safe Spaces: Health and Safety Practices
Module Learning Outcomes
At the end of the module/unit the learner will have acquired the responsibility and autonomy to:

Collaborate with colleagues to develop, implement, and review comprehensive health and safety protocols in childcare settings, ensuring a consistent and inclusive approach to safety management.
Comply with and interpret relevant regulations and standards for maintaining safe and healthy environments for children, demonstrating an understanding of legal and ethical responsiblities.
Ensure that all areas of the childcare facility meet safety requirements through regular inspections.
Create, maintain, and update detailed safety plans for the childcare facility, incorporating input from colleagues, children, and families to ensure plans are practical and inclusive.
Carry out systematic risk assessment and hazard identification in childcare environments, involving children and staff in the process to promote awareness and shared responsibility.
Guide and support staff members in the implementation of effective accident prevention techniques and emergency procedures, providing training and fostering a culture of safety.
Supervise and model hygienic practices to prevent the spread of infectious diseases, integrating these practices into daily routines and play-based activities to reinforce healthy habits.
Monitor safety compliance through regular and thorough safety checks, documenting, findings and communicating results to relevant stakeholders.
Manage the response to accidents and emergencies effectively and calmly, prioristing the wellbeing of children and other colleagues, and following establishe protocols.
Design and deliver educational materials and activities to promote safety awareness among children and colleagues, using play-based, participatory, and social pedagogies to ensure engagement and understanding.
Produce clear, concise and accurate safety-related documentation and reports, ensuring records are up-to-date and accessible for review and regulatory purposes.
Foster a culture of safety and wellbeing by promoting positive relationships, community, and emotional wellbeing, and by involving children in decision-making about their environment and routines.
Utilise play-based learning as a fundamental strategy for teaching safety concepts, enabling children to explore and internalise safe practices through hands-on, enjoyable activities such as role-play and group games.
Explain key terms and principles related to health and safety in childcare settings, such as “risk assessment”, “hazard”, “emergency procedures”, and “play-based learning” and apply these concepts to practical scenarios in ECEC.
Analyse the essential components of a comprehensive health and safety policy for childcare facilities, and evaluate how these policies support inclusive, nurturing environments for children.
Describe and demonstrate the steps involved in conducting a risk assessment in a childcare environment, considering the specific needs and development stages of children.
Identify and assess common hazards that may be present in childcare settings, including physical, environmental, and social hazards, and explain their potential impacts on children’s safety and wellbeing.
Explain and justify recommended practices for creating and maintaining safe sleep environments for infants and young children, referencing current research and best practice in ECEC.
Identify and interpret key regulations and standards that govern health and safety in childcare settings, and explain how these inform daily practice and policy development.
Describe and apply effective accident prevention strategies in childcare facilities, including the use of play-based and participatory pedagogies to engage children in safety learning.
Outline and justify the proper procedures for administering medication to children in a childcare setting, ensuring compliance with legal and ethical requirements.
Recognise the signs of common childhood illnesses and explain appropriate responses to prevent spreading infections, including the role of hygiene and communication with families.
Explain food safety principles relevant to meal preparation and serving in childcare environments, and demonstrate how these principles are integrated into daily routines and educational activities.
Describe the importance of hygiene practices in preventing the spread of infectious diseases among children, and apply these practices in a range of ECEC contexts.
Recall and explain the steps to take in case of an emergency, including evacuation procedures and first aid measures, and discuss the importance of regular drills and staff training.
Identify and justify the necessary equipment and supplies needed for maintaining a safe and healthy environment in childcare settings, including those that support play-based and inclusive learning.
Describe the roles and responsibilities of staff members in ensuring health and safety compliance, and explain how teamwork and communication contribute to a culture of safety.
Explain how to create an effective incident report following an accident or injury in a childcare setting, and discuss the importance of accurate documentation for continuous improvement and accountability.
Describe how play-based learning can be used to explore safety concepts with children, and explain the benefits of hands-on, enjoyable activities such as role-play, group games, and creative projects for internalising safe practices.
Discuss the value of participatory pedagogies in involving children in decision-making about their environment, routines, and explain how this fosters a sense of agency and responsibility among children.
Explain the importance of social pedagogies in promoting positive relationships, community, and emotional wellbeing within childcare settings, and describe how these approaches contribute to an inclusive and supportive environment.
Identify and evaluate potential hazards in childcare settings.
Implement strategies to prevent accidents across a range of childcare scenarios.
Demonstrate knowledge and application of safe sleep guidelines.
Apply effective hygiene routines to minimize illness transmission.
Create detailed safety plans customized to specific environments.
Develop and implement appropriate actions for common health and safety emergencies.
Develop and apply detailed checklists to conduct comprehensive safety inspections.
Apply proper procedures for food safety in childcare settings.
Follow correct procedures for administering and storing medication.
Construct resources that teach children about safety in an engaging, age-appropriate manner.
Recognise and address safety risks in all childcare environments.
Monitor children to ensure safety during activities.
Operate safety equipment according to best practices.
Respond to injuries using correct paediatric first aid procedures.
Develop and enact plans for emergency evacuations.
Develop critical thinking skills to assess and prioritise safety risks in childcare environments.
Enhance problem-solving abilities to address unexpected safety challenges in childcare settings.
Improve communication skills to effectively convey safety practices to children, parents, and colleagues.
Cultivate adaptability to implement safety protocols across different age groups and childcare environments.
Strengthen observational skills to identify potential safety hazards and areas needing improvement.
Utilise digital platforms to access and stay updated on the latest health and safety regulations for childcare settings.
Demonstrate proficiency in using digital tools to create and maintain safety-related documentation and checklists.
Apply digital communication tools to share safety information and updates with parents and staff members.
Use educational apps and interactive digital resources to teach children about safety in an engaging manner.
Employ digital monitoring systems to track safety compliance and incident reporting in childcare facilities.

Module 3: Expressing Ourselves: Development of Communication Skills
Module Learning Outcomes
At the end of the module/unit the learner will have acquired the responsibility and autonomy to:

Collaborate with colleagues, children and families to implement comprehensive, play-based communication development strategies in childcare settings, fostering a sense of shared purpose and agency among all stakeholders.
Comply with and interpret early curriculum guidelines and frameworks related to language development, ensuring practices are evidence-based and inclusive.
Create and maintain language-rich environments that support children’s communication development, incorporating imaginative play, story-telling and creative expression as core elements.
Identify potential communication difficulties in children, using sensitive observation and appropriate assessment tools, and respond with timely and supportive interventions.
Plan, facilitate, and evaluate activities that enhance children’s language skills, using play-based, participatory, and social pedagogies to promote engagement and confidence.f) Guide and support colleauges in using effective questioning techniques, active listening and responsive communication strategies to promote language development and foster positive relationships.
Model the implementation of multilingual support strategies in diverse childcare settings, valuing and celebrating linguistic diversity.
Monitor children’s communication progress through regular, child-centred assessments and use findings to inform planning and support.
Manage responses to various communication challenges effectively, sensitively, and inclusively, ensuring every child’s voice is heard and valued.
Create and educational materials to support children’s language acquisition, including digital and visual resources, and ensure materials are accessible and culturally relevant.
Produce clear, concise and accurate documentation of children’s communication development, ensuring records are up-to-date and accessible for review and planning.
Represent the childcare facility in discussions with speech and language professionals, families, and other stakeholders, facilitating collaborative support for children’s communication needs.
Respect and respond to cultural and linguistic differences in communication practices, fostering an inclusive environment where all children and families feel respected and valued.
Ensure that all communication development practices align with current research and best practices, continuously reflecting on and improving approaches to support children’s holistic development.
Promote positive relationships and a strong sense of community through social pedagogies, supporting children’s social-emotional development and collaborative communication skills.
Empower children to take an active role in their own communication learning through participatory pedagogies, fostering agency, self-expression, and confidence.
Explain key terms and concepts related to language acquisition and communication development, and demonstrate how these inform practice in ECEC settings.
Analyse the main stages of communication development in early childhood, and relate these stages to the planning and delivery of developmentally appropriate activities and interventions.
Describe and apply effective strategies for enhancing children’s language skills, including the use of play-based, participatory, and social pedagogies to create engaging and inclusive learning environments.
Identify and evaluate potential signs of communication difficulties in young children, and explain appropriate responses and support strategies within ECEC practice.
Explain the principles of creating a language-rich environment in childcare settings, and demonstrate how these principles are implemented through intentional design, resources, and adult interactions.
Identify and justify the use of effective questioning techniques to promote language development, and apply these techniques in real-life ECEC scenarios.
Describe the process of multilingual development in young children, and explain how educators can support children’s learning in linguistically diverse settings, including the use of home languages and culturally responsive practices.
Analyse key elements of storytelling that support communication skills, and demonstrate how storytelling can be adapted for different ages, abilities, and cultural backgrounds in ECEC settings.
Identify and evaluate appropriate use of technology in supporting children’s communication development, including digital storytelling, interactive apps, and assistive technologies, and explain how these are integrated into daily practice.
Define non-verbal communication and its importance in early childhood, demonstrating how educators can support and interpret non-verbal cues in ECEC contexts.
Describe and apply the role of play in supporting language acquisition, using examples of imaginative play, collaborative storytelling, and creative expression to illustrate how play-based pedagogy fosters communication skills.
Explain the main components of a communication assessment for young children, and demonstrate how assessment results inform planning and intervention in ECEC settings.
Describe and apply strategies for supporting children with English as an additional language, including the use of visual aids, home language support, and culturally inclusive practices.
Identify the key milestones in early language development, and explain how these milestones guide observation, assessment, and planning in ECEC practice.
Explain the importance of adult-child interactions in fostering communication skills, and demonstrate how educators can use responsive, intentional, and scaffolded interactions to support children’s language development.
Explain how participatory pedagogies empower children to take an active role in their own communication learning, fostering agency, confidence, and a sense of belonging in ECEC settings.
Describe how social pedagogies promote positive relationships, shared experiences, and a sense of community among children and educators, supporting inclusive and effective communication environments.
Apply principles of play-based learning to design and facilitate activities that promote communication development, ensuring that all children, including those with diverse needs and backgrounds, are engaged and supported.
Demonstrate how to use technology and digital resources to enhance communication opportunities for children, including strategies for safe, ethical, and developmentally appropriate use.
Demonstrate effective questioning techniques to promote children’s language development.
Apply strategies to create and maintain a language-rich environment in childcare settings.
Practice active listening skills when interacting with young children.
Conduct and interpret basic communication assessments.
Design and implement age-appropriate activities to promote language skills in young children.
Prepare and use multilingual resources to support diverse language needs.
Facilitate engaging storytelling sessions that enhance children’s communication skills.
Demonstrate appropriate use of technology to support language development.
Apply techniques to support non-verbal communication in children.
Identify and respond to potential communication difficulties in children.
Communicate effectively with parents about their child’s language development.
Adapt communication strategies to meet the needs of children with diverse abilities and backgrounds.
Support English as an additional language in students using appropriate strategies.
Document children’s communication progress systematically.
Encourage and model expressive language skills for children.
Develop observational skills to assess children’s communication development accurately.
Enhance adaptability to support diverse communication needs and styles.
Improve critical thinking abilities to select appropriate language-promoting strategies.
Cultivate creativity in designing engaging communication activities for young children.
Strengthen reflective practice skills to continuously improve communication support techniques.
Utilise digital platforms to access and stay updated on the latest research in early childhood communication development.
Demonstrate proficiency in using digital tools to create and maintain records of children’s language progress.
Apply digital communication tools to share updates on children’s language development with parents and colleagues.
Use educational apps and interactive digital resources to support children’s language acquisition.
Employ digital assessment tools to track and analyse children’s communication development over time.

Module 4: Children Lead: Implementing a Child-Led Approach
Module Learning Outcomes
At the end of the module/unit the learner will have acquired the responsibility and autonomy to:

Collaborate with colleagues, children, and families to implement child-led, play-based, and participatory practices in childcare settings, fostering a shared commitment to children’s autonomy and agency.
Create and maintain enabling environments that support child-initiated activities, imaginative play, and open-ended exploration, while ensuring safety, inclusivity, and accessibility for all children.
Conduct sensitive, child-centred observations and document children’s interests, learning processes, and developmental progress, using evidence to inform planning and support.
Facilitate child-initiated play and exploration, encouraging children to take the lead in their learning while providing appropriate scaffolding and support.
Supervise and manage the balance between child-led activities and necessary routines, ensuring a responsive and flexible daily rhythm that respects children’s autonomy.
Monitor and evaluate children’s engagement, autonomy, and participation in child-led contexts, adapting strategies to maximise involvement and learning.
Plan and implement flexible, responsive activities that are shaped by children’s evolving interests, incorporating play-based, participatory, and social pedagogies.
Develop and maintain documentation systems that capture children’s individual learning journeys, ensuring records are clear, meaningful, and accessible for reflection and planning.
Design child-centred activity plans based on observed interests and developmental needs, ensuring activities are inclusive, engaging, and developmentally appropriate.
Address challenges that arise in implementing child-led practices with sensitivity and creativity, supporting colleagues and children through change and uncertainty.
Ensure compliance with early years curriculum guidelines and frameworks while maintaining a strong child-led focus, demonstrating understanding of regulatory requirements and best practice.
Negotiate and manage resources and space allocation to support diverse child-initiated activities, ensuring equitable access and opportunities for all children.
Promote positive relationships, empathy, and a sense of community among children and educators through social pedagogies, fostering an inclusive and supportive learning environment.
Empower children to take an active role in shaping their learning environment and daily experiences, using participatory pedagogies to foster agency, self-expression, and confidence.
Explain the concept of child-led learning in the context of early childhood care and development, and demonstrate how this approach supports children’s autonomy, curiosity, and holistic development in ECEC settings.
Analyse at least three theories that underpin child-centred pedagogy (such as those of Vygotsky, Piaget, and Reggio Emilia), and evaluate their relevance and practical application in contemporary ECEC environments.
Describe and apply the key principles of creating an enabling environment for child-led learning, including the use of open-ended resources, flexible spaces, and opportunities for imaginative, collaborative, and open-ended play.
Identify and justify the characteristics of effective child-centred observation techniques, and explain how these observations inform planning, assessment, and responsive teaching in ECEC.
Recall and explain the stages of play development in early childhood and relate these stages to the design and facilitation of developmentally appropriate, play-based activities.
Describe and apply at least three strategies for following and extending children’s interests, demonstrating how these strategies are integrated into daily routines and curriculum planning.
Explain the evolving role of the adult in a child-led learning environment, including strategies for scaffolding, co-constructing learning, and facilitating children’s agency, creativity, and independence.
Identify and evaluate ways to support children’s decision-making in daily activities, including opportunities for choice, negotiation, and shared responsibility, and explain how these practices foster a sense of belonging and empowerment.
Describe how documentation can support and extend child-led learning, and demonstrate how reflective documentation is used to capture, analyse, and respond to children’s learning journeys and evolving interests.
Recall and explain key aspects of relevant early years curriculum frameworks that align with child-led approaches, and demonstrate how these frameworks guide practice and policy in ECEC settings.
Describe and apply strategies for balancing child-led activities with necessary routines, and explain how this balance supports children’s wellbeing, learning, and smooth transitions in ECEC settings.
Identify and critically analyse potential challenges in implementing child-led practices (such as time management, resource allocation, and staff attitudes), and propose evidence-based solutions that are responsive to diverse ECEC contexts.
Explain how child-led learning supports different areas of development (including cognitive, social, emotional, physical, and creative domains), and provide examples of how play-based, participatory, and social pedagogies contribute to holistic development in ECEC.
Describe how participatory pedagogies empower children to take an active role in shaping their learning environment and daily experiences, and explain how this fosters agency, belonging, and collaborative learning in ECEC.
Explain the importance of social pedagogies in fostering positive relationships, empathy, and a sense of community among children and educators, and describe how these approaches create inclusive and supportive ECEC environments.
Demonstrate effective observation techniques to identify children’s interests and learning processes.
Apply strategies to create enabling environments that support child-initiated activities.
Facilitate child-led play with minimal adult intervention, encouraging children’s autonomy and exploration.
Document children’s learning journeys in child-led contexts.
Design flexible activity plans that can adapt to children’s evolving interests.
Prepare open-ended resources that support diverse child-initiated explorations.
Create documentation displays that make children’s learning visible to children, families, and educators.
Extend children’s learning by building on their observed interests.
Apply scaffolding techniques to support children’s self-directed learning.
Balance child-led activities with necessary routines and transitions.
Communicate effectively with children to support their decision-making and agency.
Adapt adult roles to support and enhance child-led learning.
Apply strategies to support multilingual development within child-led contexts.
Use open-ended questioning to extend children’s thinking and learning.
Encourage and facilitate peer interactions during child-led activities to foster collaboration and social development.
Develop observational skills to identify and interpret children’s interests and learning processes.
Enhance flexibility and adaptability to respond to children’s evolving interests and needs.
Improve reflective practice skills to continuously evaluate and improve child-led approaches.
Cultivate patience to allow children to lead their own learning experiences.
Strengthen problem-solving abilities to address challenges in implementing child-led practices.
Utilise digital tools to document and analyse children’s learning journeys in child-led contexts.
Demonstrate proficiency in using digital platforms to create flexible, child-centred activity plans.
Apply digital communication tools to share insights about children’s interests and learning with parents and colleagues.
Use educational apps and interactive digital resources to support and extend child-led explorations.
Employ digital portfolios to showcase children’s self-directed learning and achievements.

Module 5: Communication with Care: Parent Engagement Strategies
Module Learning Outcomes
At the end of the module/unit the learner will have acquired the responsibility and autonomy to:

Collaborate with parents and colleagues to create and implement inclusive communication strategies that support children’s holistic development, using play-based, participatory, and social pedagogies to bridge home and setting.
Comply with ethical standards, guidelines, and cultural sensitivity when engaging with families from diverse backgrounds, ensuring all communication is respectful and inclusive.
Navigate and manage challenging conversations with parents effectively, building trust and rapport through active listening, empathy, and respectful dialogue.
Ensure that all communication practices are inclusive, accessible, and promote positive outcomes for children and families, adapting approaches to meet diverse needs.
Implement and evaluate strategies to enhance parent engagement in childcare settings, including regular communication and updates, family events, workshops, and feedback mechanisms.
Demonstrate active listening and respectful dialogue in all interactions with families, fostering open, two-way communication and valuing parent perspectives.
Guide and support parents in understanding their role in supporting their child’s wellbeing and development, sharing insights on the importance of play-based learning and shared learning journeys.
Supervise and coordinate communication initiatives to ensure they align with best practices in parent engagement and reflect current research and policy.
Monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of communication strategies, making necessary adjustments to improve engagement, inclusivity, and outcomes.
Select and authorise the use of technology tools to enhance communication with parents, ensuring accessibility, security, and inclusivity.
Manage and nurture relationships with families to foster a collaborative, supportive, and community-focused environment, using social pedagogies to build strong partnerships.
Create and adapt resources that support effective communication and parent engagement, ensuring materials are accessible, culturally relevant, and responsive to family needs.
Advise and mentor colleagues on best practices for engaging with families from diverse backgrounds, promoting inclusive, respectful, and evidence-based approaches.
Collaborate with colleagues to design, deliver, and evaluate training programmes on parent communication, incorporating play-based, participatory, and social pedagogies.
Guide and oversee the implementation of inclusive practices in communication with families, ensuring every family feels values, respected, and empowered to contribute.
Monitor children’s progress of children and ensure that parent feedback and insights are incorporated into care plans and decision-making, fostering a child-centred, partnership approach.
Promote and facilitate parent participation in shaping the learning environment and curriculum, using participatory pedagogies to empower families as active partners.
Use play-based learning to engage families, share children’s learning journeys, and foster shared understanding of children’s progress and needs.
Build and maintain a sense of community within the setting, using social pedagogies to foster positive relationships among parents, children, and professionals.
Explain the concept of effective communication in the context of childcare professional-parent partnerships and demonstrate how it supports children’s holistic development and wellbeing in ECEC settings.
Analyse the importance of parent engagement in supporting children’s development and wellbeing, and evaluate its impact on learning outcomes and family relationships in ECEC.
Describe and apply at least five essential communication skills for childcare professionals, such as active listening, empathy, clarity, cultural sensitivity, and assertiveness, in real-life ECEC scenarios.
Identify and justify the key components of active listening in parent-professional interactions, and explain how these components foster trust, understanding, and collaboration.
Explain the principles of respectful dialogue when communicating with families, and demonstrate how respectful communication underpins positive partnerships and inclusive practice in ECEC.
Describe and apply at least three strategies for building trust and rapport with families from diverse backgrounds, and explain how these strategies support equitable and culturally responsive ECEC environments.
Explain the process of navigating challenging conversations with parents, and demonstrate effective approaches for conflict resolution, negotiation, and maintaining positive relationships in ECEC settings.
Identify and evaluate inclusive practices that can be implemented in childcare settings to enhance parent engagement, and explain how these practices ensure every family feels valued and respected.
Identify and appraise at least five technological tools that can be used to enhance parent communication, and explain how these tools are integrated into daily ECEC practice to support engagement and transparency.
Define the concept of a collaborative environment in the context of childcare settings, and demonstrate how collaborative environments empower families, professionals, and children to work together towards shared goals.
Describe and evaluate how parent engagement contributes to positive outcomes for children, including academic achievement, social-emotional development, and overall wellbeing in ECEC.
Identify and critically analyse the barriers to effective communication between childcare professionals and parents, and propose evidence-based solutions to overcome these barriers in diverse ECEC contexts.
Explain the steps involved in conducting a productive parent-child carer meeting, and demonstrate how these meetings support partnership, transparency, and ongoing collaboration in ECEC.
List and justify three types of information that should be regularly communicated to parents, and explain how this regular communication supports children’s learning, development, and family engagement in ECEC.
Describe the role of non-verbal communication in parent-professional interactions, and demonstrate how non-verbal cues can enhance understanding, empathy, and rapport in ECEC settings.
Identify and explain the key elements of a welcoming childcare environment that encourages parent participation and demonstrate how these elements foster a sense of belonging and community.
Define cultural competence and explain its importance in communicating with diverse families, and demonstrate how culturally competent practice supports inclusion, respect, and partnership in ECEC.
Describe and evaluate the benefits of using a variety of communication channels to reach parents, and explain how multi-channel communication supports accessibility, engagement, and responsiveness in ECEC settings.
Recall and explain the legal and ethical considerations in sharing information about children with parents, and demonstrate how confidentiality, consent, and professional boundaries are maintained in ECEC practice.
Describe and apply at least five best practices for parental involvement in a child’s learning and development within the childcare setting, and explain how these practices are integrated into daily routines and curriculum planning.
Explain how play-based learning serves as a bridge between home and childcare setting and demonstrate how engaging parents in play-based activities supports shared understanding of children’s progress and needs.
Describe how participatory pedagogies empower parents to take an active role in shaping the learning environment and contributing to the curriculum, and explain how this fosters agency, belonging, and shared ownership in ECEC.
Explain the importance of social pedagogies in building strong, supportive relationships among parents, children, and professionals, and demonstrate how these approaches create a sense of community and shared responsibility in ECEC settings.
Demonstrate active listening skills during communication with parents and carers.b) Apply respectful dialogue techniques when communicating with families from diverse backgrounds.
Build trust and rapport with parents through effective communication strategies.
Navigate challenging conversations with parents using appropriate communication strategies.
Plan and implement inclusive practices to enhance parent engagement in childcare settings.
Design and implement a communication strategy that uses technology to improve parent-carer interactions.
Use appropriate non-verbal communication techniques during parent meetings.
Create a welcoming environment that encourages parent participation in the childcare setting.
Prepare and deliver clear, concise messages to parents about their child’s progress and development.
Develop resources that support parents in understanding their role in their child’s learning and development.
Compose written communications that are accessible and informative for all parents.
Arrange parent-carer conferences that are productive and collaborative.
Demonstrate cultural competence when interacting with families from diverse backgrounds.
Apply conflict resolution strategies to address disagreements between parents and childcare professionals.
Use a variety of communication channels to reach and engage all parents effectively.
Adapt communication styles to meet the needs of different families.
Design and implement a parent feedback system to continuously improve communication practices.
Maintain professional boundaries while building strong relationships with parents.
Demonstrate the ability to reflect on and evaluate personal communication styles and their impact on parent engagement.
Show proficiency in adapting communication approaches based on individual family needs and cultural backgrounds.
Apply critical thinking skills to analyse case studies and develop effective solutions for challenging parent-carer scenarios.
Practice self-directed learning by researching and incorporating new parent engagement strategies into their work toolkit.
Demonstrate the ability to give and receive constructive feedback on communication practices with peers and mentors.
Utilise digital platforms to create and manage secure, two-way communication channels with parents.
Demonstrate proficiency in using digital tools to design and distribute visually appealing and informative memos and letters for parents.
Apply data privacy and security measures when handling sensitive family information through digital means.
Create and manage digital portfolios to document and share children’s progress with parents in a secure and accessible manner.
Demonstrate the ability to conduct effective virtual parent-carer meetings using video conferencing tools.

Module 6: Seeing Clearly: Effective Observation Techniques
Module Learning Outcomes
At the end of the module/unit the learner will have acquired the responsibility and autonomy to:

Collaborate with colleagues, children and families to implement a comprehensive observation strategy in childcare settings, ensuring that observation is embedded in authentic, child-led play environments and supports inclusive practice.
Comply with ethical guidelines, privacy regulations, and cultural sensitivity when conducting, recording, and sharing child observations, upholding professional standards at all times.
Ensure objectivity, accuracy, and non-judgemental attitudes in recording and interpreting observational data of children’s behaviours and development.
Select and justify appropriate observation methods and tools based on specific child assessment needs, developmental stages, and diverse learning contexts.
Carry out systematic observations using various tools and techniques to gather meaningful data on children’s learning processes, with a focus on play-based and naturalistic contexts.
Guide and mentor colleagues in conducting effective, ethical and culturally sensitive observations, fostering a culture of reflective and professional practice.
Supervise and coordinate observation schedules to maintain consistency, quality, and inclusivity in data collection across the childcare setting.
Monitor and evaluate children’s developmental progress through regular, structured, and responsive observations, adapting approaches to meet individual needs.
Manage the secure documentation, organisation, and retrieval of observational records ensuring confidentiality and ease of access for analysis and planning.
Create detailed, evidence-based reports synthesising observational data to inform educational planning, interventions and support for individual children.
Produce objective, informed interpretations of observational data to support individual child development, using insights from play-based, participatory, and social pedagogies.
Represent the childcare facility in discussions with parents, specialists, and multidisciplinary teams, communicating observational findings, clearly, sensitively, and professionally.
Advise colleagues on best practices for conducting non-judgemental and culturally sensitive and inclusive observations, promoting respect and understanding for all children and families.
Negotiate establish consistent observation protocols
Handle sensitive and confidential information obtained through observations with professionalism, discretion, and respect for children’s and families’ rights.
Ensure that all observational practices align with current research, professional standards, and regulatory requirements in early childhood education.
Identify potential additional support needs based on observational evidence, using a holistic, child-centred approach and collaborating with relevant professionals and families.
Engage in regular reflective practice to analyse, evaluate, and continuously improve observation techniques and professional judgement. .
Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to integrate observational data into comprehensive child assessments, ensuring a coordinated and supportive approach to children’s development and wellbeing.
Manage the implementation and evaluation of technology-enhanced observation tools to improve the quality, efficiency, and inclusivity of data collection and analysis.
Promote children’s active involvement in their own learning and assessment, using participatory pedagogies to foster agency, self-awareness, and engagement.
Foster positive relationships and a sense of community among children, families, and professionals through social pedagogies, ensuring observation practices are inclusive, respectful, and supportive.
Explain the concept of systematic observation in the context of early childhood education, and demonstrate its role in supporting child development, educational planning, and responsive teaching in ECEC settings.
Analyse at least five different observation methods used in childcare settings, evaluating their suitability for various developmental assessments and contexts, and apply these methods in practical ECEC scenarios.
Describe and apply the ethical considerations involved in observing and documenting children’s behaviour, including confidentiality, consent, and cultural sensitivity, and explain how these principles guide inclusive and respectful ECEC practice.
Identify and justify the key components of an effective observation tool, and demonstrate how these components contribute to accurate, meaningful, and developmentally appropriate data collection in ECEC.
Outline and demonstrate the steps involved in conducting an objective and detailed observation, ensuring non-judgemental, systematic, and child-centred data gathering in real ECEC environments.
Compate and contrast three types of documentation strategies used to record observational data, assessing their benefits and limitations in ECEC settings, and select appropriate strategies for different purposes.
Define reflective practice and critically discuss its importance in interpreting observational data to inform responsive teaching, professional growth, and continuous improvement in ECEC.
Explain and apply the process of using observational data to inform educational planning, including adapting activities to meet individual children’s needs and interests in ECEC settings.
Identify potential indicators of additional support needs that may be observed in children and describe appropriate referral and intervention processes that are inclusive, timely, and responsive to diverse needs.
List and explain the characteristics of non-judgemental observational techniques, and demonstrate how these techniques support inclusive, respectful, and equitable practice in ECEC. k) Evaluate how different observation methods can be applied to understand children’s unique developmental trajectories, with examples from play-based, participatory, and child-led contexts in ECEC.
Describe the key elements of anecdotal records and running records and demonstrate their use in documenting children’s learning and behaviour in real ECEC settings.
Assess the benefits and limitations of time sampling as an observation technique, including its application in monitoring specific behaviours and supporting targeted interventions in ECEC.
Define the concept of a learning story and its role in documenting children’s development and fostering child and family engagement in ECEC.
Explain how sociograms can be used to observe and analyse children’s social interactions, and discuss their value in supporting social development and building a sense of community in ECEC settings.
Identify and evaluate three ways in which technology can be utilised to enhance observation and documentation processes, including digital tools and software, and explain how these innovations support efficient, accurate, and inclusive practice in ECEC.
Compare participant and non-participant observation methods, discussing their advantages, challenges, and appropriate use in ECEC, with reference to play-based and participatory pedagogies.
Explain how observational data can be used to track a child’s progress over time, supporting ongoing assessment, planning, and responsive interventions in ECEC settings.
Discuss the importance of considering cultural contexts when interpreting observational data, and describe strategies to ensure culturally responsive and inclusive observation practices in ECEC.
Apply play-based learning as a central context for observation, demonstrating how children’s natural play behaviours offer rich insights into their development, interests, and learning styles in ECEC.
Describe how participatory pedagogies encourage children’s active involvement in their own learning and assessment, and explain how these approaches foster agency, self-awareness, and shared responsibility in ECEC.
Explain the importance of social pedagogies in promoting positive relationships, collaboration, and a sense of community among children and educators, and demonstrate how these approaches ensure observation practices are inclusive and supportive.
Demonstrate proficiency in conducting systematic observations of children’s behaviours and development.
Apply various observation methodologies appropriately in different childcare contexts.
Practice ethical considerations when observing and documenting children’s activities.
Use multiple observation tools and techniques effectively.
Plan and implement a structured observation schedule in a childcare setting.
Design customised observation tools tailored to specific assessment needs.
Operate digital tools and software for recording and analysing observational data.
Use anecdotal records to capture detailed descriptions of children’s behaviours and interactions.
Construct running records that provide comprehensive accounts of children’s activities over time.
Prepare objective and detailed reports based on observational data.
Create learning stories that document children’s developmental progress and achievements.
Compose reflective journals to analyse and interpret observational findings.
Conduct non-judgmental observations of children’s unique learning styles.
Identify potential additional support needs through careful observation.o) Arrange the environment to facilitate unobtrusive observations of children’s natural behaviours.
Adapt observation techniques for children with diverse needs.
Use observational data to inform and adjust educational planning and interventions.
Demonstrate critical thinking skills by analysing and interpreting observational data to draw meaningful conclusions about children’s development.
Apply reflective practice techniques to evaluate and improve personal observation skills and methodologies.
Show adaptability in selecting and implementing appropriate observation techniques based on individual children’s needs and contexts.
Exhibit cultural sensitivity when observing and interpreting behaviours of children from diverse backgrounds.
Demonstrate effective time management skills in balancing observation tasks with other childcare responsibilities.
Utilise digital observation apps and software to efficiently record, organise, and analyse observational data.
Create digital portfolios to document and showcase children’s developmental progress over time.
Apply data protection and privacy measures when storing and sharing digital observational records.
Demonstrate proficiency in using digital video recording tools for capturing and reviewing children’s behaviours and interactions.
Utilise digital collaboration platforms to share observational findings and insights with colleagues and parents securely.

Module 7: Practice Placement
Module Learning Outcomes
At the end of the module/unit the learner will have acquired the responsibility and autonomy to:

Collaborate with colleagues, children and families to implement rights-respecting practices in childcare environments, fostering a shared commitment to equity, inclusion, and children’s agency.
Comply with and promote the principles outlined in the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child in daily childcare activities, ensuring practices are evidence-based and culturally sensitive.
Ensure that all children in care setting are treated equally and without discrimination based on race, colour, religion, sex, or nationality, or any other characteristic, upholding the principle of non-discrimination in all interactions.
Create and maintain an inclusive environment that respects children’s individuality and cultural diversity, and unique needs, using play-based, participatory, and social pedagogies to support belonging and self-expression.
Facilitate and support child participation, ensuring children’s right to be heard and to take an active role in decisions that affect them, and promoting a sense of agency and belonging.
Guide and mentor other staff members in understanding and applying the best interests of the child principle, using case studies and reflective discussions to embed this approach in practice.
Supervise and evaluate childcare practices to ensure they align with children’s rights and equity principles, making adjustments as needed to support all children’s development.
Monitor and review the implementation of non-discriminatory policies and practices within the childcare setting, addressing any gaps or challenges proactively.
Manage and allocate resources to support the diverse learning and development needs of all children, ensuring equitable access to opportunities and experiences.
Develop and implement strategies to advocate for children’s rights within the broader community and with stakeholders, raising awareness and building parterships for children’s wellbeing.
Produce clear, accurate, and right-based documentation that reflects a commitment to children’s rights and supports accountability and continuous improvement.
Advise and support colleagues in navigating challenging situations while upholding children’s rights, fostering a culture or respect, empathy, and professional integrity.
Negotiate and establish consistent rights-respecting practices with team members, ensuring alignment with current research, policy, and best practice in early childhood education.
Ensure the children’s right to play and leisure is respected and actively promoted within the daily schedule, using play-based learning as a core approach to support children’s development, expression, and wellbeing.
Identify and addressing potential violations of children’s rights in the care environment, taking appropriate action to safeguard children and uphold their rights.
Engage in regular reflective practice sessions to analyse, evaluate, and improve rights-based approaches in childcare, fostering a culture of continuous learning and professional development.
Collaborate with families to promote understanding and support of children’s rights at home, building strong partnerships that reinforce children’s wellbeing and development.
Manage the implementation of child-friendly complaint mechanisms to uphold children’s right to express concerns, ensuring processes are accessible, responsive, and supportive.
Ensure that children’s right to privacy and protection of identity is maintained in all aspects of childcare practice, safeguarding sensitive information and respecting confidentiality.
Empower children to take an active role in shaping their environment and routines, using participatory pedagogies to foster, agency, self-expression, and confidence.
Promote positive relationships, empathy, and a sense of community among children, families, and professionals through social pedagogies, ensuring an inclusive and supportive learning environment.
Explain the concept of children’s rights as outlined in the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC) and demonstrate how these rights underpin daily practice and decision-making in ECEC settings.
Analyse the four core principles of the UNCRC and evaluate their significance in shaping inclusive, equitable and rights-respecting childcare environments..
Describe and apply the principle of non-discrimination in the context of childcare settings and demonstrate how this principle supports the inclusion and respect of all children, regardless of background or ability.
Identify and interpret key elements of the “best interests of the child” principle, and explain how this guides policy, planning, and daily interactions in ECEC.
Recall and explain the main articles related to child participation in the UNCRC and demonstrate how these articles are enacted through child-led and participatory practices in ECEC settings.
Define the concept of equity in early childhood education and care and critically discuss its relationship with access, quality, and inclusion for all children and families.
Describe and apply at least three ways to promote cultural diversity in childcare environments, and evaluate how these approaches foster respect, understanding, and a sense of belonging for all children and families.
Explain the importance of recognising children’s individuality in rights-respecting practices and demonstrate how this supports children’s self-expression, agency, and development in ECEC.
Identify and critically analyse potential barriers to implementing children’s rights in childcare settings and propose evidence-based strategies to overcome these barriers in diverse ECEC contexts.
Identify and justify five rights from the UNCRC that are particularly relevant to daily childcare practices, and explain how these rights are upheld and promoted in real-life ECEC scenarios.
Describe and evaluate the role of child participation in fostering a rights-respecting culture and demonstrate how participatory pedagogies empower children to take an active role in decisions that affect them.
Describe and apply at least three strategies for advocating children’s rights in professional settings and explain how these strategies contribute to policy development, practice improvement, and public awareness in ECEC.
Identify and explain the key components of an inclusive environment in childcare and demonstrate how these components are implemented to ensure all children feel valued, respected, and supported in their learning and development.
Define the concept of evolving capacities in relation to children’s rights and explain how this concept informs age-appropriate, responsive, and empowering ECEC practice.
Describe and evaluate how the right to play contributes to children’s holistic development and demonstrate how play-based pedagogy supports children’s expression, identity, and social skills in ECEC settings.
Describe and apply at least four ways to support children’s right to express their views in childcare settings, and explain how these practices foster agency, communication, and democratic participation among children
Identify and critically discuss potential conflicts between different rights in childcare practice and propose balanced, rights-respecting solutions that uphold the best interests of the child.
Explain the importance of children’s right to privacy in childcare practices and demonstrate how confidentiality, consent, and respectful boundaries are maintained in ECEC settings.
Describe and evaluate how children’s rights connect to quality standards in early childhood education and care, and explain how rights-based approaches underpin regulatory frameworks, professional practice, and continuous improvement in ECEC.
Explain how participatory pedagogies empower children to take an active role in shaping their environment and routines, and demonstrate how this fosters agency, belonging, and shared ownership in ECEC.
Describe how social pedagogies promote positive relationships, empathy, and a sense of community among children, families, and professionals, and demonstrate how these approaches create inclusive and supportive ECEC environments.
Apply play-based learning as a core approach to promoting children’s rights, demonstrating how meaningful, child-led play experiences support children’s expression, identity, and social development in ECEC.
Apply the four guiding principles of the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child in daily childcare practices.
Create an inclusive environment that respects children’s individuality and cultural diversity.
Practice non-discriminatory approaches in interactions with children and families.
Implement the “best interests of the child” principle in decision-making processes.
Design and facilitate activities that promote child participation and the right to be heard.
Advocate for children’s rights within the childcare setting and broader community using appropriate strategies.
Construct policies and procedures that align with children’s rights and equity principles.
Prepare and use resources that educate children about their rights in an age-appropriate manner.
Navigate and mediate potential conflicts between different rights.
Support children’s right to play and leisure within daily schedules.
Practice active listening to respect children’s views and opinions.
Promote a rights-respecting culture within the childcare environment.
Arrange the physical space to promote accessibility and inclusion for all children.
Address discrimination and promote equality among children
Communicate children’s rights effectively to parents and colleagues.
Apply reflective practices to continuously improve rights-based approaches in childcare.
Use appropriate documentation methods to record and monitor the implementation of children’s rights.
Design strategies to support children’s right to privacy and protection of identity.
Resolve conflicts while upholding children’s rights.
Adapt childcare practices to meet the evolving capacities of children.
Demonstrate critical thinking in applying the four guiding principles of the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child to daily childcare practices.
Show proficiency in creating inclusive environments that respect children’s individuality, cultural diversity, and unique needs.
Develop effective strategies for promoting child participation and the right to be heard in matters affecting them.
Apply reflective practices to continuously improve rights-based approaches in childcare settings.
Exhibit skills in advocating for children’s rights within the childcare setting and broader community.
Use digital platforms to create and share resources that educate children about their rights in an age-appropriate manner.
Demonstrate proficiency in using online tools to document and monitor the implementation of children’s rights in childcare settings.
Apply digital communication tools to effectively engage with parents and colleagues about children’s rights and equity principles.
Utilise digital collaboration platforms to share best practices and discuss challenges in implementing rights-respecting practices.
Employ digital security measures to protect children’s privacy and personal information in accordance with their rights.

Module 8: Keeping it clean: Hygiene Essentials for Child care
Module Learning Outcomes
At the end of the module/unit the learner will have acquired the responsibility and autonomy to:

Collaborate with colleagues, children, and families to implement comprehensive hygiene protocols in childcare settings, fostering a shared commitment to cleanliness and wellbeing.
Comply with and interpret relevant health regulations and standards for maintaining cleanliness in childcare environments, ensuring practices are current and evidence-based.
Ensure proper handwashing techniques and other personal hygiene practices are consistently modelled and practiced by other staff and children, using play-based learning to make these routines engaging and meaningful.
Create, maintain and update detailed hygiene plans for the childcare facility, involving children and staff in the process to promote responsibility and agency.
Carry out and coordinate effective cleaning routines and sanitation procedures, integrating these tasks into daily routines in a way that is inclusive and supportive of all children’s needs.
Guide and support staff members in the implementation of proper infection control measures and hygiene practices, providing training and fostering a culture of safety and shared responsibility.
Supervise and evaluate the implementation of food hygiene protocols in childcare kitchens and eating areas, ensuring compliance with best practice and regulatory requirements.
Monitor and assess cleanliness levels through regular and thorough hygiene checks, addressing any issues promptly and involving children in maintaining their environment.
Manage the response to bodily fluid incidents effectively, calmly, and safely following established protocols and supporting children’s emotional wellbeing.
Design and deliver educational materials and activities to promote personal hygiene among children, using play-based, participatory, and social pedagogies to ensure engagement and understanding.
Produce clear, concise and accurate hygiene-related documentation and reports, ensuring records are up-to-date and accessible for review and regulatory purposes.
Respond to potential hygiene-related emergencies or outbreaks calmly, efficiently, and in accordance with established procedures, prioritising the safety and wellbeing of children and staff.
Ensure the proper handling, storage, and disposal of potentially contaminated materials, following best practice and regulatory guidelines to minimise risk.
Encourage children to take an active role in maintaining their environment, using participatory pedagogies to foster a sense of responsibility, agency, and community.
Promote positive relationships, cooperation, and a sense of community among children and adults through social pedagogies, ensuring that hygiene practices are understood, valued, and collectively upheld.
Explain the concept of infection control in the context of childcare settings and demonstrate hot it protects children’s health and supports inclusive safe environments.
List and justify the five critical steps of proper handwashing technique and apply these steps in real-life ECEC scenarios to promote children’s understanding and participation through play-based learning.
Describe and analyse the key components of an effective cleaning routine for childcare environments and evaluate how these routines support health, safety and child engagement in maintaining their own spaces.
Identify common pathogens that pose risks in childcare settings and explain how knowledge of these pathogens informs prevention strategies and daily hygiene practices.
Recall the appropriate steps for managing bodily fluid incidents safely demonstrating calm, effective and inclusive responses in ECEC contexts.
Name and justify three essential personal hygiene practices to promote among children and demonstrate how these are integrated into daily routines and playful learning experiences.
Define cross-contamination and critically discuss its relevance to food hygiene in childcare and describe how to prevent cross-contamination through practical, child-centred strategies.
List and explain the key steps in a proper diaper changing protocol and demonstrate how these steps are implemented in a safe, respectful and developmentally appropriate manner in ECEC.
Describe and apply the correct procedure for handling and disposing of potentially contaminated materials ensuring compliance with health regulations and safety standards in ECEC settings.
Identify and evaluate the critical areas that require regular cleanliness checks in a childcare facility and explain how these checks contribute to a culture of shared responsibility and community.
Recall and justify the recommended frequency for cleaning different areas and items in a childcare setting and discuss how these routines are communicated and reinforced with children and colleagues.
Define the concept of a hygiene plan and critically discuss its importance in maintaining cleanliness and demonstrate how plans are developed, implemented, and reviewed in ECEC settings.
List and appraise three common cleaning agents and their appropriate uses in childcare environments and explain how safe storage and use are ensured in daily practice.
Describe and evaluate the proper storage methods for cleaning supplies and equipment, and explain how these methods protect children’s safety and support efficient hygiene management.
Identify and interpret the key elements of relevant health regulations and standards for childcare hygiene and explain how these inform policy, practice, and continuous improvement in ECEC.
Explain how play-based learning is used to teach children about hygiene, and demonstrate how songs, stories, and role-play support children’s understanding and adoption of healthy habits in ECEC.
Describe how participatory pedagogies empower children to take an active role in maintaining their environment, and explain how this fosters a sense of responsibility, agency, and belonging in ECEC.
Explain how social pedagogies promote positive relationships, cooperation, and a sense of community as children and adults work together to keep their setting clean and safe, and demonstrate how these approaches support inclusive, supportive environments.
Demonstrate proper handwashing techniques according to established guidelines.
Apply effective infection control measures in various childcare scenarios/
Practice safe and hygienic diaper changing procedures.
Manage bodily fluid incidents safely and effectively.
Design and implement comprehensive cleaning schedules for different areas of a childcare facility.
Prepare appropriate dilutions of cleaning and sanitising solutions for various purposes.
Demonstrate the correct use of personal protective equipment (PPE) in hygiene-related tasks.
Create and use engaging educational materials to promote personal hygiene among children
Apply food safety principles in childcare kitchen and eating areas.
Construct and maintain a detailed hygiene plan tailored to a specific childcare setting.k) Demonstrate proper techniques for cleaning and sanitising toys and play equipment.
Conduct thorough cleanliness checks and document results.
Handle and dispose of potentially contaminated materials using appropriate methods.
Arrange childcare environments to minimise cross-contamination risks.
Respond appropriately to various hygiene-related emergency scenarios.
Develop critical thinking skills to assess and prioritise hygiene needs in various childcare scenarios.
Enhance problem-solving abilities to address unexpected hygiene challenges in childcare settings.
Improve communication skills to effectively convey hygiene practices to children, parents, and colleagues.
Cultivate adaptability to implement hygiene protocols across different age groups and childcare environments.
Strengthen observational skills to identify potential hygiene risks and areas needing improvement.
Utilise digital platforms to access and stay updated on the latest hygiene guidelines and regulations for childcare settings.
Demonstrate proficiency in using digital tools to create and maintain hygiene-related documentation and checklists.
Apply digital communication tools to share hygiene information and updates with parents and staff members.
Use educational apps and interactive digital resources to teach children about personal hygiene in an engaging manner.
Employ digital monitoring systems to track cleaning schedules, supply inventory, and hygiene compliance in childcare facilities.

Module 9: Feeding Futures: Nutrition for Young Children
Module Learning Outcomes
At the end of the module/unit the learner will have acquired the responsibility and autonomy to:

Collaborate with colleagues, children and families to implement comprehensive nutritional programmes in childcare settings, fostering a shared commitment to healthy eating and wellbeing.
Comply with and interpret relevant food safety regulations and nutritional guidelines for young children, ensuring practices are current, evidence-based, and culturally sensitive.
Ensure balanced and nutritious means are provided to children in childcare settings, considering individual dietary needs, allergies, and cultural preferences.
Create, maintain and update detailed meal plans for the childcare facility, involving children and staff in the process to promote responsibility, agency, and shared learning.
Carry out and coordinate food preparation and serving tasks in a safe and hygienic and inclusive manner, integrating these routines into daily play-based and social learning experiences.
Guide and support staff members in proper food handling, storage, and safety techniques, providing training and fostering a culture of shared responsibility and continuous improvement.
Supervise and evaluate the implementation of strategies to encourage healthy eating habits among children, using play-based, participatory, and social pedagogies to make healthy eating engaging and meaningful.
Monitor and assess children’s eating patterns and nutritional statues, addressing any nutritional concerns proactively and sensitively, and involving families in support strategies.
Manage food allergies, intolerances, and special dietary requirements effectively within the childcare setting, ensuring safety, inclusion, and respect for all children.
Design and deliver educational materials to promote healthy eating among children and parents, using play-based, participatory, and social pedagogies to ensure engagement and understanding.
Produce clear, concise, and accurate nutritional-related documentation and reports, ensuring records are up-to-date and accessible for review and regulatory purposes.
Support children who are picky eaters or have other dietary challenges in a positive, supportive, and non-judgemental manner, using evidence-based strategies and involving families in solutions.
Encourage children to take an active role in food preparation and selection, using participatory pedagogies to foster agency, responsibility, and a sense of ownership over their nutrition.
Promote positive relationships, collaboration, and a sense of community among children and adults through shared mealtimes and social pedagogies, ensuring an inclusive and supportive eating environment.
Integrate play-based learning into nutrition education, using cooking games, sensory exploration, and role-play to help children develop positive attitudes towards food and healthy eating habits.
Support breastfeeding and culturally appropriate feeding practices, respecting and facilitating the needs of infants and families from diverse backgrounds.
Plan and implement nutrition education activities that are fun, interactive, and integrated into daily routines, fostering children’s curiosity and positive experiences with food.
Explain key nutritional terms relevant to early childhood development, and demonstrate how these terms inform daily practice and communication with children and families in ECEC settings.
List and justify the essential nutrients required for optimal growth and development in young children, and explain how these are provided through balanced, varied diets in ECEC environments.
Describe and compare the nutritional needs at different developmental stages from infancy to preschool, and apply this knowledge to plan age-appropriate menus and meal routines in childcare settings.
Identify and assess common food allergies and intolerances in young children, and describe appropriate strategies for managing these in inclusive, safe, and supportive ECEC environments.
Recall and apply the principles of safe food handling and storage in childcare settings and demonstrate how these principles are implemented to ensure food safety and prevent contamination.
Name and explain the key components of a balanced means for young children and demonstrate how these components are integrated into daily menus and playful food experiences in ECEC.
Describe and evaluate the importance of hydration in early childhood nutrition and demonstrate how children’s access to water is supported and encouraged throughout the day in ECEC settings.
List and apply strategies for encouraging healthy eating habits in young children and evaluate how these strategies are reinforced through play-based, participatory and social learning activities.
Identify and discuss cultural considerations in meal planning for diverse childcare settings and demonstrate how to adapt menus and practices to respect and celebrate cultural differences.
Describe and justify appropriate portion sizes appropriate for different age groups in early childhood and explain how these are implemented in ECEC settings to support healthy growth and prevent over- or under-eating.
Describe and evaluate the benefits of breastfeeding, and explain how to support breastfeeding mothers in ECEC settings, including providing appropriate facilities, information, and emotional support.
Recall and apply the guidelines for introducing solid foods to infants, and demonstrate how these guidelines are communicated to families and integrated into ECEC practice.
List and critically discuss common nutritional challenges in early childhood, and propose practical, evidence-based solutions that are responsive to children’s individual needs and backgrounds.
Identify and explain the signs of malnutrition or nutritional deficiencies in young children and describe how these are monitored and addressed in collaboration with families and health professionals in ECEC.
Describe and evaluate the role of nutrition in supporting cognitive development and learning, and demonstrate how healthy eating is integrated into daily routines and educational activities in ECEC settings.
Demonstrate proper food handling and preparation techniques for childcare settings.
Apply nutritional guidelines to create balanced meal plans for different age groups.
Practice safe food storage methods to prevent contamination and spoilage.
Manage food allergies and intolerances in a childcare environment.
Design and facilitate engaging nutritional education activities for young children.
Prepare age-appropriate meals and snacks that meet nutritional requirements.
Demonstrate techniques for encouraging children to try new foods.
Construct individualised feeding plans for children with special dietary needs.
Read and interpret food labels for nutritional content.
Communicate effectively with parents about their child’s nutritional needs and eating habits.
Modify recipes to improve nutritional value while maintaining appeal.l) Apply appropriate portion control techniques for different age groups.
Create and implement strategies to reduce food waste in childcare settings.
Develop critical thinking skills to assess and address nutritional challenges in childcare settings.
Enhance problem-solving abilities to manage diverse dietary needs and preferences.
Improve communication skills to effectively convey nutritional information to children, parents, and colleagues.
Cultivate creativity in developing appealing and nutritious meals for young children.
Strengthen observation skills to monitor children’s eating habits and identify potential nutritional issues.
Utilise digital platforms to access and stay updated on the latest nutritional guidelines for young children.
Demonstrate proficiency in using digital tools to create and maintain meal plans and nutritional records.
Apply digital communication tools to share nutritional information and updates with parents and staff members.
Use educational apps and interactive digital resources to teach children about healthy eating in an engaging manner.
Employ digital monitoring systems to track food inventory, meal planning, and dietary requirements in childcare facilities.

Module 10: Caring Touch: Physical Care for Children
Module Learning Outcomes
At the end of the module/unit the learner will have acquired the responsibility and autonomy to:

Collaborate with colleagues, children and families to implement comprehensive physical care routines in childcare settings, fostering a shared commitment to nurturing, inclusive and respectful care.
Comply with and interpret relevant care standards and regulations for physical care of young children, ensuring practices are current, evidence-based, and culturally sensitive.
Ensure safe, nurturing, and dignified physical care practices are consistently applied, respecting each child’s individuality and developmental needs.
Create, maintain, and update detailed physical care plans for each child, involving children and families in the process to promote agency, independence, and shared understanding.
Carry out and coordinate tasks related to diapering, bathing, dressing, and grooming children with gentleness, respect, and attention to their comfort and preferences.
Guide and support staff members in proper physical care techniques for different age groups, providing training and fostering a culture of reflective and professional practice.
Supervise and evaluate the implementation of safe sleep practices in childcare environments, ensuring compliance with best practice and regulatory requirements.
Monitor and assess children’s health and wellbeing through regular, sensitive physical checks, addressing any concerns proactively and involving families to support strategies.
Manage responses to illness or injury effectively, calmly, and in accordance with established protocols, prioritising children’s safety and emotional wellbeing.
Design and deliver educational material to promote independence in self-care tasks among children, using play-based, participatory, and social pedagogies to make learning engaging and meaningful.
Produce clear, concise, and accurate documentation of physical care provided to each child ensuring records are up-to-date and accessible for review and regulatory purposes.
Represent the childcare facility in discussions with health professionals, communicating care practices and outcomes clearly, sensitively, and professionally.
Respond to cultural differences in care practices sensitively and respectfully, ensuring all children and families feel valued and included.
Ensure that all physical care practices respect children’s dignity, promote their wellbeing, and foster a positive sense of self and belonging.
Encourage children to take an active role in their own self-care, using participatory pedagogies to foster independence, self-confidence, and agency.
Promote positive relationships, empathy, and a sense of community among children and adults through shared caregiving experiences and social pedagogies, ensuring an inclusive and supportive environment.
Integrate play-based learning into physical care routines, using playful activities such as role-play and pretend care to help children understand and participate in their own care in a positive, enjoyable way.
Support children’s developing independence and self-care skills through age-appropriate, playful, and supportive interactions, fostering a sense of accomplishment and self-esteem.
Explain key terms related to physical care in early childhood settings and demonstrate how these terms inform daily practice and communication with children and families.
List and justify the essential components of a comprehensive physical care routine for young children and explain how these routines support holistic development and wellbeing in ECEC settings.
Describe and apply proper diapering techniques for infants and toddlers and demonstrate how these techniques are implemented in a respectful, safe, and developmentally appropriate manner.
Identify and apply safe bathing practices for different age groups and explain how these practices are adapted to meet individual needs and cultural preferences in ECEC.
Recall and demonstrate the steps for conducting a basic check on a young child and explain how routine checks contribute to early detection and support for children’s health and wellbeing.
Name and assess common childhood illnesses and their symptoms, and describe how this knowledge informs observation, communication with families, and appropriate responses in ECEC.
Describe and justify appropriate responses to signs of illness in childcare settings and demonstrate how these responses are implemented with sensitivity and respect for children’s dignity.
List and explain the key principles of safe sleep practices for infants and young children and demonstrate how these principles are embedded in daily routines and communicated to families.
Identify and critically discuss cultural considerations in physical care practices and explain how to adapt routines to respect and celebrate diverse backgrounds in ECEC settings.
Define the concept of respectful care in the context of physical caregiving, and demonstrate how this approach underpins all interactions, ensuring children feel valued, secure, and supported.
Describe and apply age-appropriate methods for supporting children’s developing independence in self-care tasks, and explain how participatory pedagogies foster agency, confidence, and self-esteem.
Recall and apply basic paediatric first aid procedures relevant to childcare settings, and demonstrate how these procedures are implemented calmly and effectively in real-life situations.
List and evaluate the necessary equipment and supplies for providing physical care to young children, and explain how these resources are managed to ensure safety, hygiene, and accessibility in ECEC.
Identify and explain the signs of proper hygiene practices in childcare environments, and demonstrate how these practices are reinforced through routines, modelling, and playful learning experiences.
Describe and evaluate the importance of skin-to-skin contact for infants’ development, and explain how this practice supports attachment, emotional wellbeing, and healthy development in ECEC.
Explain how play-based learning is integrated into physical care routines and demonstrate how playful activities such as role-play and pretend care help children understand and participate in their own care in a positive, enjoyable way.
Describe how participatory pedagogies empower children to take an active role in their own self-care, and explain how these approaches foster independence, agency, and a sense of belonging in ECEC.
Explain how social pedagogies promote positive relationships, empathy, and a sense of community among children and adults as they share caregiving experiences and demonstrate how these approaches create inclusive and supportive ECEC environments.
Demonstrate proper diapering techniques for infants and toddlers.
Apply safe bathing practices for different age groups.
Practice gentle and respectful handling techniques when caring for young children.
Conduct basic health checks on children.
Design and facilitate age-appropriate activities to promote self-care skills in young children.
Prepare safe sleep environments for infants and young children.
Create individualised care plans that respect cultural differences.
Demonstrate proper hand washing techniques to prevent the spread of illness.
Apply appropriate first aid techniques for common childhood injuries.
Dress and undress young children safely and respectfully.
Communicate effectively with children during physical care routines
Recognise signs of illness or distress in young children.
Apply strategies to support children’s emotional needs during physical care routines.
Maintain hygiene standards in childcare environments.
Encourage and support children’s independence in self-care tasks.
Develop observational skills to assess children’s physical wellbeing and detect potential health issues.
Enhance empathy and sensitivity when providing physical care to young children.
Improve problem-solving abilities to address unexpected challenges during care routines.
Cultivate patience and calmness when dealing with resistant or distressed children during care activities.
Strengthen adaptability skills to adjust care practices for children with diverse needs or diverse cultural backgrounds.
Utilise digital platforms to access and stay updated on the latest physical care guidelines for young children.
Demonstrate proficiency in using digital tools to create and maintain individual care plans and health records.
Apply digital communication tools to share updates on children’s physical wellbeing with parents and colleagues.
Use educational apps and interactive digital resources to teach children about personal hygiene and self-care.
Employ digital monitoring systems to track care routines, sleep patterns, and health indicators in childcare facilities.

Module11: Reflective Practitioners: Learning from Experience
Module Learning Outcomes
At the end of the module/unit the learner will have acquired the responsibility and autonomy to:

Collaborate with colleagues, children and families to implement a culture of reflective practice in childcare settings, fostering shared understanding, agency, and continuous improvement.
Ensure regular, meaningful engagement in reflective activities – such as individual journaling, group discussions, and case study analysis - to drive continuous professional improvement.
Create, maintain, and update detailed reflective journals, using them as a tool for self-evaluation, learning from experience and planning future actions.
Carry out critical incident analysis in professional practice, examining challenging situations to identify learning opportunities and inform future responses.
Guide and mentor colleagues in using various reflective models (e.g., Kolb’s Learning Cycle, Gibbs’ Reflective Cycle, Schön’s reflection-in-action and reflection-on-action) effectively to enhance practice and professional growth.
Supervise and support the implementation of reflective practices within the childcare team, ensuring these practices are embedded in daily routines and collaborative processes.
Monitor and evaluate personal and team progress through reflective practice, using feedback and evidence to inform ongoing development and improvement.
Manage the integration of reflective insights into decision-making processes, ensuring that reflection informs policy, planning, and practice at all levels.
Create, review, and update professional development plans based on reflective insights, setting clear goals and identifying relevant learning opportunities.
Produce clear, concise, and accurate documentation of reflective processes and outcomes, ensuring records are accessible and useful for review and planning.
Represent the childcare facility in discussions about reflective practice with external stakeholders, communicating the value and impact of reflective approaches clearly and professionally.
Advise and support colleagues in overcoming challenges in reflective practice, fostering a culture of openness, mutual support, and resilience.
Address ethical considerations in reflection sensitively and professionally, ensuring confidentiality, respect and integrity in all reflective activities.
Ensure the reflective practices align with professional standards, best practices and regulatory requirements, promoting high-quality, accountable care and education.
Negotiate and advocate for dedicated time and resources for reflective practice within the childcare settings, supporting a sustainable culture or continuous improvement.
Use play-based learning as a context for reflection, observing, interpreting, and responding to children’s play to inform practice and enhance children’s development and wellbeing.
Engage in collaborative reflection with children, families, and colleagues, using participatory pedagogies to foster a shared sense of agency, understanding, and collective responsibility.
Promote positive relationships, empathy, and a sense of community through social pedagogies, ensuring that reflective practice is inclusive, respectful, and responsive to the needs and perspectives of all stakeholders.
Explain reflective practice in the context of early childhood education, and demonstrate how it underpins professional growth, responsive teaching, and improved outcomes for children in ECEC settings.
Analyse at least three models of reflection used in professional practice (e.g., Gibbs’ Reflective Cycle, Schön’s reflection-in-action, Kolb’s Learning Cycle), and evaluate their relevance and application in real ECEC scenarios.
Describe and apply the process of critical incident analysis and demonstrate how this method supports deeper understanding, learning and responsive decision-making in ECEC.
Identify and justify the key components of an effective reflective journal and explain how these components support meaningful self-assessment, planning and continuous improvement in professional practice.
Recall and explain the steps involved in the reflective cycle and demonstrate how this cycle is used to structure reflective practice and inform ongoing professional development in ECEC.
Name and critically evaluate at least three benefits of engaging in regular reflective practice and explain how these benefits contribute to quality care, learning, and wellbeing in ECEC settings.
Describe and demonstrate how reflection informs decision-making in childcare settings and provide examples of how reflective insights lead to responsive, evidence-based practice. h) List and discuss potential ethical considerations in reflective practice, and explain how confidentiality, respect, and professional boundaries are maintained in ECEC environments.
Identify and apply strategies for overcoming common barriers to reflection and explain how these strategies support a culture of continuous learning and improvement in ECEC teams.
Define collaborative reflection and critically discuss its importance in team development, and demonstrate how shared reflection fosters trust, shared understanding, and effective teamwork in ECEC.
Describe and evaluate how reflective practice contributes to continuous professional improvement and explain how this process is embedded in daily routines, supervision, and professional development plans in ECEC.
List and explain the characteristics of a reflective practitioner and demonstrate how these characteristics are modelled and promoted in ECEC settings.
Identify and appraise the role of feedback in the reflective process, and explain how constructive feedback from colleagues, children, and families informs practice and supports growth in ECEC.
Describe and demonstrate how reflection enhances relationships with children and families, and explain how reflective practice supports inclusive, respectful, and responsive partnerships in ECEC.
Explain how play-based learning provides a context for reflection, and demonstrate how educators observe, interpret, and respond to children’s play to inform and improve their own practice.
Describe how participatory pedagogies invite students to reflect collaboratively with children, families, and colleagues, and explain how this fosters a shared sense of agency, understanding, and collective responsibility in ECEC.
Explain how social pedagogies promote positive relationships, empathy, and a sense of community as educators reflect together on their practice, and demonstrate how these approaches create inclusive, supportive ECEC environments.
Use various reflective models in professional practice.
Apply critical incident analysis techniques to professional experiences.
Engage in regular journaling as a form of reflection.
Conduct self-evaluation of professional practice.
Design and implement a personal reflective practice routine.
Prepare and use reflective questions to guide deeper analysis of experiences.
Create and follow a professional development plan based on reflective insights.
Give and receive constructive feedback as part of reflection.
Apply reflective insights to improve decision-making in childcare scenarios.
Facilitate reflective discussions with colleagues
Practice ethical reflection, considering multiple perspectives and impacts.
Use reflection to enhance relationships with children and families.
Apply reflective techniques to resolve challenging situations in childcare settings.
Document reflective processes and outcomes..
Encourage and support reflective practice among team members.
Develop critical thinking skills to analyse experiences and practices deeply.
Enhance self-awareness of recognise personal strengths, weaknesses, and biases.
Improve emotional intelligence to reflect on and manage emotions in professional practice.
Cultivate open-mindedness to consider alternative perspectives and approaches.
Strengthen metacognitive skills to think about one’s own thinking and learning processes.
Utilise digital platforms to maintain online reflective journals or portfolios
Demonstrate proficiency in using digital tools for collaborative reflection with colleagues.
Apply digital communication tools to share reflective insights and receive feedback.
Use educational apps and interactive digital resources to support ongoing reflective practice.
Employ digital analytics tools to track and analyse patterns in reflective practice over time.

Module 12: Hands-On Experience: Practical Work Placement
Module Learning Outcomes
At the end of the module/unit the learner will have acquired the responsibility and autonomy to:

Collaborate effectively with childcare team members, children and families in daily operations, fostering a culture of teamwork, respect, and shared responsibility.
Comply with workplace policies, procedures, and safety regulations, demonstrating understanding of regulatory requirements and best practice in early childhood settings.
Ensure the implementation of appropriate, nurturing care routines for children, adapting practices to meet individual needs and preferences.
Plan and implement age-appropriate, play-based activities that are responsive to children’s interests and curiosity, in line with best practice and emergent curriculum approaches.
Carry out tasks related to children’s health, hygiene, and nutrition, ensuring practices are safe, inclusive, and supportive of children’s wellbeing.
Respond to challenging behaviours professionally, calmly, and effectively, using positive guidance strategies and involving colleagues and families as appropriate.
Monitor and assess children’s development and wellbeing through sensitive observation and documentation, using insights to inform planning and support.
Manage time and resources efficiently in the childcare setting, prioritising children’s needs and ensuring a balanced, engaging daily routine.
Create and maintain a safe, nurturing, and inclusive environment for children’s holistic development and encourages exploration, creating, and belonging.
Produce accurate, timely, and reflective documentation of children’s progress and experiences, ensuring records are accessible and useful for review and planning.
Represent the childcare facility professionally when interacting with families, communicating clearly, sensitively, and with cultural competence.
Advise supervisors and colleagues on observed areas for improvement in childcare practices, contributing to a culture of continuous professional development.
Negotiate and implement constructive solutions to workplace challenges, demonstrating initiative, problem-solving skills, and a collaborative approach.
Ensure confidentiality and ethical practices in all aspects of work, upholding the rights and dignity of children, families, and colleagues.
Supervise children’s activities under the guidance of experienced staff, ensuring safety, engagement, and positive learning experiences.
Facilitate meaningful play experiences that are central to children’s learning and development, using play-based pedagogy to create inviting, purposeful, and responsive environments.
Empower children, families, and colleagues to take an active role in planning and decision-making, using participatory pedagogies to foster agency, belonging, and shared ownership of the learning environment.
Promote positive relationships, empathy, and a sense of community among children, families, and professionals through social pedagogies, ensuring an inclusive and supportive setting.
Engage in reflective practice through journaling, debriefing, and portfolio development, critically analysing experiences to demonstrate professional growth and inform future practice.
Define and explain key terms related to professional practice in childcare settings demonstrating their relevance and application in daily childcare operations.
List and justify the main components of daily care routines in early childhood education explaining how these routines support children’s holistic development and wellbeing.
Describe and apply effective strategies for communicating with families including culturally sensitive approaches and the use of play-based and participatory pedagogies to foster positive partnerships.
Identify and assess potential safety hazards in childcare environments explaining how to manage risks and maintain a safe setting in compliance with regulations.
Recall and relate the stages of child development relevant to the age group in care and explain how this knowledge informs responsive caregiving and activity planning.
Name and evaluate three theories of early childhood education observed in practice discussing their influence on pedagogical approaches and child outcomes.
Describe the importance of play-based learning in childcare settings and demonstrate how it is integrated into daily practice to support learning and development.
List and explain key elements of effective teamwork in a childcare environment including communication, collaboration and shared responsibility.
Identify signs of potential child protection concerns and describe appropriate actions and reporting procedures in line with legal and ethical standards..
Describe their reflective practice and its role in professional development demonstrating how reflection informs improved practice and child outcomes.
Explain the process of planning and implementing age-appropriate activities, incorporating play-based, participatory, and social pedagogies to meet children’s interests and developmental needs.
Recall important aspects of nutrition and meal planning for young children and explain how these are applied in childcare settings to promote healthy eating habits.
List and apply strategies for managing challenging behaviours in childcare settings using positive guidance and inclusive approaches.
Identify the key components of a quality childcare environment and explain how these components contribute to children’s safety, learning and wellbeing.
Describe the role of observation and assessment in supporting children’s development and demonstrate how these practices inform planning and intervention in childcare settings.
Demonstrate proper techniques for children’s personal care routines.
Apply age-appropriate behaviour management strategies effectively.
Practice active listening skills when communicating with children and families.
Implement planned activities for children.
Design and facilitate engaging learning experiences based on children’s interests.
Create documentation of children’s learning and development.
Work collaboratively within a childcare team.
Apply principles of child development in daily interactions with children.
Maintain a safe and hygienic environment.
Practice reflective techniques to evaluate and improve performance.
Demonstrate professional communication skills with families and colleagues.
Apply observation techniques to assess children’s needs and interests.
Adapt activities for children with diverse needs.
Respond appropriately to emergency situations.
Develop adaptability skills to respond effectively to diverse situations in childcare settings.
Enhance critical thinking abilities to link theoretical knowledge with practical experiences.
Improve self-reflection skills to continuously evaluate and enhance professional practice.
Cultivate emotional intelligence to manage relationships with children, families, and colleagues.
Strengthen problem-solving skills to address challenges in real-world childcare scenarios.
Utilise digital platforms to maintain reflective journals and document professional growth.
Apply digital communication tools to collaborate with team members and communicate with families.
Use educational apps and digital resources to enhance learning experiences for children.
Employ digital portfolios to showcase professional development and achievements during the placement.

Please note that all payments are non-refundable