Course information
If you're considering a career in childcare or want to build on your understanding of how to support young children, this course offers an excellent starting point. The NCFE CACHE Level 1 Certificate in Caring for Children introduces key areas of child development and care, helping you develop practical knowledge and essential skills. It's ideal for those with little or no previous experience, or anyone returning to education with a view to working with children in the future.
Throughout the course, you will explore a variety of topics including how children learn through play, how to promote healthy eating, and how to create safe and supportive environments. The course also includes personal development and life skills units, helping you build the confidence and communication skills required to work effectively with others. Learning takes place in a supportive setting with guidance from experienced tutors, providing the foundation you need to progress into further study or entry-level employment in the childcare sector.
Whether you're hoping to work in nurseries, schools, or as a childminder, this course gives you the first step towards a rewarding career. It also provides a natural progression route into Level 2 childcare qualifications or into voluntary or support roles within early years settings.
When courses start
Date: Monday 22 September 2025 to Monday 2 February 2026
Time: 10am to 2:3pm
Duration: 15 weeks (1 class per week)
Date: Monday 23 February 2026 to Monday 29 June 2026
Time: 10am to 2:3pm
Duration: 15 weeks (1 class per week)
What you will learn
This qualification introduces a range of topics to help you gain insight into caring for children and working in early years settings. Units may include:
Understand how children grow and learn and explore how to support their development through appropriate activities and routines.
Explore the importance of play in early learning and how to plan engaging, age-appropriate play activities.
Learn how to maintain a safe and clean environment, identify hazards, and follow basic health and safety procedures in childcare settings.
Understand how to encourage healthy habits in young children, including nutrition, exercise, and hygiene.
Discover how consistent routines and positive reinforcement support children's wellbeing and development.
Build personal skills that support communication, teamwork, and the confidence needed for further learning or work experience.
How you will be assessed
Assessment is based on a portfolio of evidence compiled throughout the course. There are no formal exams. You will complete written tasks, reflections and practical activities that demonstrate your understanding of the course content.
Progression opportunities
Completing this course enables you to progress onto Level 2 qualifications in Childcare, Early Years, or Supporting Teaching and Learning in Schools. It may also support entry into volunteer or support roles in nurseries, pre-schools, or primary school settings.
Entry requirements
Before enroling you will need to complete a short English and Maths assessment to make sure this course is suitable for you.
If you’d prefer to speak with someone, you can also book an assessment session by contacting our Learning Support team on 0208 496 2974.
Get in Touch
Whether you need to get in touch to join a course, let us know if you're unable to attend your course, raise a query, let us know your feedback or anything else, contact us using the options below. You can also talk to an adviser live by clicking on the green speech bubble in the bottom right of the screen.
Phone
020 8496 2974Address
Queens Road Learning Centre97 Queens Road
Walthamstow
London
E17 8QR