Key Facts

Level 1 Certificate in Caring for Children (Health and Social Care Pathway)

The Level 1 Caring for Children (Health and Social Care Pathway) is aimed at learners considering a career in Early Years, Childcare, Health and/or social care with children and young people.

This qualification offers an opportunity to develop life skills as well as those who are thinking of working in childcare. It will provide learners with an understanding of the skills and knowledge needed to care for young people. Through a range of hands on experiences, you will develop knowledge and awareness of play activities, health and safety, forest schools, craft activities and the types of provisions available for children and families.

Students will develop critical skills including communication and teamwork to prepare them for their next steps.

This qualification does not qualify students to work directly with adults, children or young people but provides a starting point for deciding whether a career working with children, young people and families is of interest.

In addition to this, students will also study either GCSE or Functional Skills English and Mathematics depending on their grades.

  • Entry Requirements


    We will invite you to a Meet the Tutor event where you will receive information, advice, and guidance about the course you have applied for. This will be an opportunity for you to gain valuable information about the course and give you the opportunity to ask any questions you may have.

    You will provide a copy of your last school report and / or a reference from an employer or relevant professional other. This is to ensure we can support you to be able to achieve well on the course.

    3 x GCSE's at any grade including Maths and English or previous vocational qualification.

    Don't have any formal qualifications? Don't worry, let us know and we can assess you to ensure you will be able to achieve well on the course.

    We are firmly committed to finding the right course for you to ensure you can flourish! Talk to us today if you have any concerns about the application process, we are here to help take you to the next level.

  • Progression Next Steps


    You may progress to the Level 2 Introducing Caring for Children and Young People course or a BTEC Health & Social Care course.

    Alternatively, you could consider further training or study in related fields such as an Apprenticeship or employment.

    Following your interests, there are lots of opportunities available for you to progress across the South Thames Colleges Group and into the world beyond education.

    During your time with us you will have access to a dedicated team of careers, education advisors and student support who will help you as you take the next steps towards achieving your goals.

  • Additional Information


    This is a full time course and there is no tuition charge for students under the age of 19.

    The College offers a variety of early years study options and will direct applicants to the most appropriate course dependent on achieved GCSE grades and prior experience.

    Have you had a look at Kingston College social media? #earlyyearskingston @KCUpdate

    For more information please contact our Admissions Team on 020 8268 3073 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

  • Course Structure


    Students will study a range of topics offering opportunities to stimulate interest and understanding of the skills and knowledge needed to care for young children from birth to 5 years and 11 months. The qualification offers a mixture of vocational units and personal and social development units. Learners do not need to be working or undertaking practical placements to take this qualification. Work experience opportunities available.

  • Assessment Details


    A variety of internal assessment methods will be used including practical work, presentations, written work, planned lessons and workshops.