Childcare Programme
At Prospect Training Services, we are offering a new Childcare programme for young people who are interested in working with children and would like to develop their knowledge, skills and confidence for their future. Whether you already have an interest in childcare or are simply looking to explore a new career pathway, the programme provides an opportunity to learn in a supportive environment while developing a better understanding of working with children and young people.
The programme will introduce learners to a range of important areas within childcare, helping them understand how children develop, learn and grow, as well as the role adults play in supporting their wellbeing and development. Alongside their childcare learning, learners will also have opportunities to develop wider personal and employability skills, helping them build confidence and prepare for their next steps in education, training or employment.
Location
Mill Place
15-16 Mill Place,
Off Price Street,
Gloucester,
GL1 5SQ
Academic Calendar
Please click here to view our 2026/27 calendar.This form of support can be offered to persons up to 19 years of age, or up to 24 years of age if you have an Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP).
Our Learner Support Supervisor, Jane Trehearne, is happy to answer any questions you may have. Please click here to contact us.
Programme at a Glance
Our Childcare programme is designed to give learners an understanding of the key areas involved in caring and supporting children. Learners will get to explore child development, communication and importance of play, while developing an understanding of how children learn, grow and interact with the world around them.
Throughout the academic year, on our Childcare programme, learners will get the opportunity to:
Gain recognised qualifications to strengthen future options
Learners will work towards a NCFE/CACHE Level 2 in Introducing Caring for Children and Young People and, where required, can also work towards Functional Skills or GCSE qualifications in English and maths. This helps them build the essential skills and qualifications they need for their next step.
Develop Skills for Life and Work
Learners will take part in enrichment, Skills for Life and Skills for Work, helping them gain the practical skills for life beyond the classroom and building a better understanding of the workplace. Work experience opportunities will also form part of the programme, giving learners the chance to explore their interests as they prepare for their next steps.
Discover important areas of caring for a child
The programme will look at how different experiences can affect children's development and behaviour, and the importance of understanding and responding to individuals needs. Learners will also explore important areas such as safeguarding, health and safety, positive relationships and behaviour, as well as children's health and well-being.
If this isn't the course for you, please click here to view our Youth Programme course guide or here to return to the main Youth Programme page.
FAQs
We understand that families, carers and young people may have many questions about how our programme works. This section is here to provide clear and helpful answers to the most common questions. If your question isn't answered here, please don't hesitate to get in touch — we're here to help every step of the way.
Learners will complete a 34-week course, which is a mix of classroom-based learning and an external work placement, where relevant. If required, they will work towards Pearson Entry-L2 Functional Skills and GCSE qualifications and sit external assessments to achieve. Learners will be required to sit mock assessments and complete BKSB skills checks to monitor progress in preparation for external assessments.
Class sizes are between 10-20 learners depending on the level of the group.
All learners carry out initial assessments and diagnostics to ensure that they are working towards the correct level for their ability which results in an individual learning plan. The Work Placement Officer completes a Work Ready Checklist to ensure that learners are matched to an employer who will help them to meet their career aspirations. Assessments and exams are arranged when the tutor and learner feel that they are exam ready to give them the best opportunity to achieve.
There are no entry requirements for the Childcare programme. Learners must meet the DFE eligibility criteria.
Learners have access to a wide range of support including access to the Learner Support Officers (LSO) and safeguarding team. If a learner is a child in care or care leaver, we work closely with The Virtual School and Social Care team to ensure that they are fully supported while on the programme. Learners that have an EHCP will be fully supported by the team including the SENCo.