Higher National Certificate/Diploma (HNC/HND) Advanced Practice in Work with Children & Families

What is this course about?

This course offers learners with a Level 3 qualification the opportunity to gain knowledge and skills at Level 4 to further enhance their job opportunities to progress into management or on to a degree programme. The Higher National Certificate is made up of units to include such topics as Theories of Development, Professional Practice, Early Years Curriculum and Play and Learning.

Entry Requirements

You should hold a relevant and current Level 3 Childcare/Early Years qualification, (examples include DCE, BTEC National, NVQ Level 3 or their equivalent). You should be working within the Early Years sector (voluntary or paid employment) and have a statement of support and commitment from your employer.

How is it taught?

Taught sessions will combine a variety of teaching methods to meet the needs of all students and take in to account the individual knowledge, experience and practice. There will be a combination of theory and practical activities.

How will I be assessed?

All units will be graded as Pass, Merit or Distinction with evidence referenced against a set criteria. Units will be assessed internally through a range of methods.

What else do I need to know?

Stoke on Trent College has some of the most comprehensive and up-to-date facilities in the country.
Our expert staff are highly qualified in this subject area and in their ability to teach at a higher level - over half have a Masters qualification. Lecturers keep abreast of changes in the sector through continued professional development and industrial updating.
Learners regularly comment on the excellent tutorial support they receive and the high quality of taught sessions. They feel empowered by the knowledge and skills they gain as well as the opportunities they have to make changes both professionally and personally. In addition to the many excellent facilities, the College has recently spent £13K on new library resources.

What could I do next?

Learners may progress to a Higher National Diploma or Foundation degree for Early Childhood Studies or an undergraduate degree. Learners wanting to move into management may also progress to the Level 5 Diploma in Leadership for Health, Social Care and Young People.
This qualification will enhance the studentsí opportunities for advancement within early years and provide valuable continuing professional development for progression within the sector in a variety of areas such as management or advanced practitioner roles.