Qualification Requirements for the Early Years, School Age Childcare and Childminding Sectors in Northern Ireland

Qualification Requirements for the Early Years, School Age Childcare and Childminding Sectors in Northern Ireland 1 Version 12 Dated 30 September 2015 JA

CONTENT Page 3-4 Page 4-8 Page 9-14 Aim and Purpose Childcare Partnerships Minimum Standards for Childminding and Daycare Acceptable Qualifications - Full Daycare Page 15-21 Acceptable Qualifications - Sessional Care Page 22 Page 23-26 Page 27 Page 28 34 Requirements - Home-based Childcare Training Provision Early years and Playwork Training provision Further and Higher Education Useful Contacts 2 Version 12 Dated 30 September 2015 JA

Aim and Purpose The aim of this document is to provide guidance on acceptable qualifications to enable someone to work within the early years and childcare sector in Northern Ireland. It can be utilised by employers, practitioners, training providers, parents and early years social workers within Health and Social Care Trusts. The guidance in this document pertains to practitioners working with children below the age of twelve years in registered childcare settings and should be used in conjunction with the Minimum Standards for Childminding and Daycare for Children under age 12 (DHSSPS, July 2012) and the associated Implementation Guidance (Version 3 Dated It has been produced by the Childcare Partnership with support from members of the Regional Training and Workforce Development Group and will be updated regularly as new qualifications are developed. You can download a copy of the document from the Childcare Partnership website www.childcarepartnerships-ni.org and the Family Support NI website www.familysupportni.gov.uk Childcare Partnership The Childcare Partnerships (CCP) were first established in April 2000 as a result of the Northern Ireland Childcare Strategy, Children First (1999). Children First was developed as part of the Government s commitment to supporting children and their families, setting out proposals to increase the quantity and improve the quality of affordable childcare for children up to the age of 14 in Northern Ireland. It was recognised that successful implementation of the strategy would depend on a range of professionals and agencies working together. This led to the establishment of four Childcare Partnerships initially with representation from the statutory, voluntary, community and independent sectors. Key tasks for the CCP s included: Assessing the demand for childcare and family support services; Providing direct investment to meet identified need; Raising the quality of childcare; and Ensuring that reliable information on childcare services was readily available. 3 Version 12 Dated 30 September 2015 JA

There are now 5 Childcare Partnerships one in each Health and Social Care Trust area, supported by the Health and Social Care Board, offering a range of support locally to early years and childcare practitioners, employers and parents, including providing access to: training; quality improvement initiatives; business development initiatives; networking support; funding: and early years research, advice and support. Childcare Partnerships also have responsibility, on behalf of the Department of Education (DE), to monitor the performance and development of Sure Start projects, administer the DE Capital Funding Programme and also manage the Early Years Development Fund on behalf of the Department of Health, Social Services and Public Safety (DHSSPS). More recently the Childcare Partnerships have taken on the role of Managing Agent, for the School Age Childcare Grant Scheme on behalf of the OFM/DFM, and have also supported the delivery of a series of pilot projects to support the inclusion of children with a disability in early years and childcare settings. Childcare Partnerships identify training needs through consultation with early years and childcare providers, practitioners, early years inspectors (HSCT and ETI), early years specialists and regional membership organisations enabling procurement and delivery of a high quality training programme. The CCP training programme provides access to core training to meet requirements listed within the Minimum Standards for Childminding and Day Care for Children under Age 12 (DHSS&PS, 2012) and the provision of additional learning opportunities which support the continuous professional development of staff. The Childcare Partnership website hosts the Regional Childcare Partnership Training Programme and User Guide which outlines the steps required to submit online applications. The Childcare Partnership s Regional Training and Workforce Development Group meet quarterly and assist the Child Care Partnerships to: develop a process for identifying priorities for commissioning quality improvement activities for the Child Care/Early Years sectors; identify key workforce planning and development issues to improve outcomes for children through the delivery of quality services; 4 Version 12 Dated 30 September 2015 JA

influence policy direction in terms of workforce planning and development, particularly in the context of the forthcoming Child Care Strategy; and provide a conduit to link with relevant Sector Skills Bodies e.g. Skills for Care and Development, and Skills Active and the Playwork Education and Training Committee NI (PETCNI) who represent the Playwork sector in Northern Ireland. Minimum Standards for Childminding and Daycare Minimum Standards for Childminding and Day Care for Children Under Age 12 (July, 2012) were published by the Department of Health Social Services and Public Safety (DHSSPS) and are used by the Health and Social Care Trust (HSCT) Early Years Social Services Team to register new facilities and carry out inspections. National Minimum Standards describe the minimum requirements for regulated early years and childcare settings. The standards define the three categories of childcare setting that are required to register with Health and Social Care Trusts childminders, full day care and sessional day care as follows: 1. Childminders are self-employed day care providers who work in their own homes to provide care and play for other people s children in a family setting. They may offer this service all year round for the full working day. Childminders are required to register when they look after one or more children aged under 12 for reward on domestic premises. 2. Full day care is care for children aged 0-12 years for a continuous period of four hours or more in any day in premises which are not domestic. The children do not necessarily have to attend for more than four hours, and the setting may provide provision for part day care for children aged 0-12 years, but if the facility is open for longer than this, it is defined as a full day care setting. 3. Sessional day care is defined as day care for children which covers less than a continuous period of four hours in any day and covers crèches, pre-school sessional care (playgroups), out of school clubs (school aged child care including breakfast clubs also referred to as wrap around care). Out of school clubs are generally covered under the category Sessional Care. However, as children in these clubs are, by 5 Version 12 Dated 30 September 2015 JA

definition, older, there may be some standards that apply to them but not, for example, to crèches or pre-schools. Sure Start is a Government initiative targeting children aged under 4 and their families in areas of social disadvantage to promote the physical, intellectual and social development of children to ensure they have the best start in life. There are currently 39 Sure Start projects across Northern Ireland which covers a wide geographic spread. This guidance also applies to early years and childcare staff within Sure Start projects providing the 2-3 year programme and crèche provision to support programme delivery. This service is also defined as sessional day-care. Standard 11, within the Minimum Standards for Childminding and Day Care for Children under Age 12, and the associated Implementation Guidance Version 3 sets out the minimum qualification requirements for staff working within the early years and childcare sector. Level 5 qualifications are now established as the minimum attainment level for leaders and emerging leaders in both full day care and sessional care (Children s Care Learning and Development (CCLD) and Playwork at level 5). Room Supervisors/Team Leaders and staff who could deputise for the leader working under the supervision of the Manager are required to hold at, the very least, a Qualification at level 3 in Early Years or Playwork ; 50% of all other childcare staff should have as a minimum a qualification at level 2 in Early Years or Playwork as appropriate to the setting ; Playwork is identified as the most appropriate qualification for staff working in School Aged Childcare services (SACC); Childminders for the first time must complete Health and Safety, Paediatric First Aid and Child Protection training every 3 years and are also encouraged to work towards level 2 or level 3 qualifications in Children s Care Learning and Development or Playwork. It should be noted these are minimum qualification requirements and that staff holding higher Level qualifications as listed within this document are also deemed qualified and will meet regulatory requirements. It is recognised that these new requirements and changes for staff qualifications outlined within the Minimum Standards will require an adequate lead in time; this currently stands as April 2016. It is expected 6 Version 12 Dated 30 September 2015 JA

that newly appointed staff will have attained or at least be registered on the relevant level of qualification by this cut off point. When this has not been achieved the registering Trust will propose a timeframe within which the management qualification must be achieved. It is reasonable that the qualification should be achieved within a two year timescale from the date of registration for the course. This applies mainly to employees, existing and future, who are not currently working in a manager role in the sector It should be noted however that the new lead in time for application to a manager s/leader s post only applies to staff who are not currently working as a manager/leader in the sector. (E.g. a manager/leader who is currently employed and who has an NVQ/QCF level 3 qualification in CCLD, Playwork or equivalent can apply for another manager/leader post without having to gain a QCF Level 5 qualification. Practitioners currently employed in a deputy management role who are appointed to a Manager/Leader s post are required to agree to complete or be registered to complete a relevant QCF level 5 qualification by April 2016. Persons acting up into a manager or deputy manager role on a fixed term basis for more than 12 months will also be required to register to complete a level 5 qualification. Existing Staff with Qualifications It is recognised that existing staff (i.e. those working in early years childminding, playwork or studying a programme of training or education in childcare) holding or working towards previously recognised appropriate qualifications will continue to have their qualifications recognised. An example of this would be that those holding a National Vocational Qualification (NVQ) level 2 or 3 in Children s Care Learning and Development (CCLD) or Playwork will not be required to complete a QCF CCLD or Playwork qualification at the same level. Previously recognised appropriate qualifications linked to specific job roles are listed from page 9 onward. Existing Staff without Qualifications Existing staff that do not hold an appropriate qualification, as set out within the Minimum Standards, do not have to attain a new or additional qualification while remaining employed at their current grade. 7 Version 12 Dated 30 September 2015 JA

They are however encouraged to undertake appropriate professional development and training. New Staff without Qualifications The recruitment of unqualified staff is permissible as long as the minimum level of 50% of staff with a qualification is maintained. New staff without a qualification (including relief staff) must receive appropriate induction training before they are allowed to work with children. Induction training must cover the following: the settings policies and procedures; child Protection /safeguarding/whistleblowing; management of children s behaviour; recording; working with parents; health and safety; and equal opportunities New staff without qualifications must agree to sign up for vocational training leading to a relevant QCF qualification within the first year of their employment. (This will include relief staff used on a regular basis). It s important to note that the Minimum Standards highlight that it is the responsibility of the Registered Person to ensure that staff are appropriately qualified to practice. Volunteers working in a setting can be included in the staff to child ratio if they do not compromise the setting s qualification requirements. It remains the responsibility of the Registered Provider to ensure that all requirements for volunteers, as for paid staff, are met. Full consideration needs to be given to the issue of continuity of care for children when using volunteers. If a new entrant or member of staff applying for promotion presents with a qualification that does not appear within this document this qualification will need to be mapped to the minimum qualification requirements listed for each job role within the Minimum Standards for Childminding and Daycare. Where gaps are identified additional modules may need to be completed to meet regulatory requirements. Awarding Bodies, Colleges and Training Organisations may provide guidance and assistance in this matter. 8 Version 12 Dated 30 September 2015 JA

Acceptable Qualifications in Early Years, Childcare and Playwork Linked to Specific Job Roles Full Daycare Day Nursery Minimum Qualification Requirements as Listed Within the Minimum Standards for Childminding and Daycare (July,2012) i.e. applies to staff moving to a new post (e.g. career progression (deputy to leader/manager or assistant to leader/room supervisor) and for newly appointed posts at all levels Suggested Higher Level Progression Routes NB - staff qualified to this level will also meet regulatory requirements Equivalent Acceptable Qualifications for Existing Employees i.e. If a child care worker moves to a new post at the same level, their existing qualification will remain acceptable for the purposes of registration. It is important to note however that employers are at liberty to set their own qualification requirements in line with the requirements of the job role and the guidance as set out within the Minimum Standards. Manager Person in Charge Deputy Manager Full Day Care Early Years Service/SACC service QCF Level 5 Diploma in Children s Care Learning and Development Management QCF Level 5 Diploma in Playwork Professional Qualification in any of the following; Social Work, Nursing, Midwifery, Health Visiting, Teaching and at least two years paid experience in employment working with children of the age group relevant to the setting they will be working in. BA Hons. Degree in Early Childhood Studies Playwork Degree Table 3 outlines additional progression routes BA Hons Degree Early Childhood Studies QCF Level 5 Diploma in Children s Care Learning and Development Management or Advanced Practice Foundation Degree in Early Childhood Studies NVQ Level 4 Children s Care Learning and Development. CACHE Advanced Diploma in Childcare and Education NVQ level 3 Children s Care Learning and Development NVQ Level 3 Early Years Care and Education NVQ Level 3 Childcare and Education Edexcel National Diploma in Childcare 9 Version 12 Dated 30 September 2015 JA

NOTE: The new requirements for staff qualifications include a lead-in time (Minimum Standards (DHSS&PS 2012, Page 37). Acknowledging when this has not been achieved the registering Trust will propose a timeframe within which the management qualification must be achieved. It is reasonable that the qualification should be achieved within a two year timescale from the date of registration for the course. This applies mainly to employees, existing and future, who are not currently working in a manager role in the sector Please note these are the minimum qualification requirements accepted at this level to meet regulatory requirements. Managers should continually seek professional development opportunities to enhance and extend their knowledge, leadership and management skills for the benefits of the staff team, children and families. Learning and Development (From 2007) Edexcel National Diploma in Early Years (Prior 2007) Edexcel National Diploma in Childhood Studies From 1994) Level 3 Transitional Award Playwork Playwork level 4 Playwork level 5 Playwork Degree Professional Qualification in any of the following; Social Work, Nursing, Midwifery, Health Visiting, Teaching and at least two years experience in employment working with children of the age group relevant to the setting they will be working in. 10 Version 12 Dated 30 September 2015 JA

Full Day Care Room Supervisor Early Years Service QCF level 3 Children s Care Learning and Development QCF level 3 Diploma in Playwork CACHE Extended Diploma in Children s Care Learning and Development BTEC National Diploma in Children s Care Learning and Development CACHE Level 3 Diploma Child Care and Education This qualification is robust but there is a shortfall in content related to safeguarding. Learners who have completed/are completing this qualification will also need to top up their learning by completing the unit CYP 3.3 Understand how to safeguard the wellbeing of children and young people Foundation Degree in Early Childhood Studies Edexcel HND/C Advanced Practice in Work with Children and Families QCF Level 5 Diploma in Children s Care Learning and Development Management Foundation Degree in Early Childhood Studies CACHE Advanced Diploma in Childcare and Education Edexcel HND/C Advanced Practice in Work with Children and Families Edexcel HNC/HND Early Childhood Studies QCF level 3 Children s Care Learning and Development NVQ Level 3 Children s Care Learning and Development. NVQ Level 3 Early Years Care and Education NVQ Level 3 Childcare and Education National Nursery Examination Board Certificate Edexcel National Diploma in Childcare Learning and Development (From 2007) Edexcel National Diploma in Early Years (Prior 2007) Edexcel National Diploma in Childhood Studies (From 1994) NNEB Certificate /Diploma in Nursery Nursing CACHE Diploma in Childcare and Education 11 Version 12 Dated 30 September 2015 JA

Full Day Care Room Supervisor School Age Childcare room/s QCF level 3 Diploma in Playwork or QCF Level 3 Diploma in Children s Care Learning and Development CACHE Extended Diploma in Children s Care Learning and Development BTEC National Diploma in Children s Care Learning and Development CACHE Level 3 Diploma Child Care and Education This qualification is robust but there is a shortfall in content related to safeguarding. Learners who have completed/are completing this qualification will also need to top up their learning by completing the unit CYP 3.3 Understand how to safeguard the wellbeing of children and young people Foundation Degree in Early Childhood Studies Edexcel HND/C Advanced Practice in Work with Children and Families Level 3 Transitional Award in Playwork from Early Years QCF Level 5 Diploma in Playwork Playwork Degree QCF level 3 Playwork NVQ 3 Playwork Level 3 Award in Transition to Playwork Playwork level 4 Or any of the early years qualifications listed as above for the early years service 12 Version 12 Dated 30 September 2015 JA

Full Day Care Child Care Assistant Early Years Service QCF Level 2/3 Diploma in Children s Care Learning and Development QCF level 2/3 Playwork CACHE Extended Diploma in Children s Care Learning and Development BTEC National Diploma in Children s Care Learning and Development (CCLD). This qualification maps to the QCF Level 3 Diploma Childcare and Development (CCLD) providing specified optional units are completed. QCF Level 3/5 Diploma in Children s Care Learning and Development Level 3 Transitional Award in Playwork from Early Years QCF Level 2/3 Diploma in Children s Care Learning and Development NVQ Level 2/3 Children s Care Learning and Development NVQ Level 2/3 Early Years Care and Education NVQ Level 2/3 Childcare and Education CACHE Diploma in Childcare and Education BTEC National Diploma in Children s Care Learning and Development (CCLD). The required optional units are: o Unit 9 Promoting Healthy Development and Living for Children and their Families o Unit 10 Promoting Wellbeing and Resilience in Children o Unit 11 Diet and Nutrition for Children o Unit 14 Psychological perspectives on children s behaviour o Unit 18 Support children s literacy o Unit 27 Meeting additional Requirements CACHE Level 3 Diploma Child Care and Education 13 Version 12 Dated 30 September 2015 JA

This qualification is robust but there is a shortfall in content related to safeguarding. Learners who have completed/are completing this qualification will also need to top up their learning by completing the unit CYP 3.3 Understand how to safeguard the wellbeing of children and young people. Foundation Degree in Early Childhood Studies Edexcel HND/C Advanced Practice in Work with Children and Families Full Day Care Child Care Assistant School Age Childcare Room/s QCF level 2/3 Playwork or QCF Level 2/3 Diploma in Children s Care Learning and Development Or any of the Early Years qualifications listed above QCF Level 3/5 Diploma in Playwork Level 3 Transitional Award Playwork from Early Years NVQ level 2 Playwork QCF level 2 Playwork Or any of the Early Years qualifications listed above 14 Version 12 Dated 30 September 2015 JA

Sessional Care Early Years Playgroup Creche Sure Start Developmental Programme for Two to Three Year Olds Sessional Care Leader /Person in Charge Deputy Leader Minimum Qualification Requirements as Listed Within the Minimum Standards for Childminding and Daycare ( July,2012) i.e. applies to staff moving to a new post (e.g. career progression (deputy to leader/manager or assistant to leader/room supervisor) and for newly appointed posts at all levels QCF Level 5 Diploma in Children s Care Learning and Development- Management QCF Level 5 Diploma in Playwork Professional Qualification in any of the following; Social Work, Nursing, Midwifery, Health Visiting, Teaching and at least two years paid experience in employment working with children of the age group relevant to the setting they will be working in. NOTE: The new requirements for staff qualifications include a lead-in time (Minimum Standards (DHSS&PS 2012, Page 37). Suggested Higher Level Progression Routes NB - staff qualified to this level will also meet regulatory requirements BA Hons Degree Early Childhood Studies Table 3 outlines additional progression routes Equivalent Acceptable Qualifications for Existing Employees i.e. If a child care worker moves to a new post at the same level, their existing qualification will remain acceptable for the purposes of registration. It is important to note however that employers are at liberty to set their own qualification requirements in line with the requirements of the job role and the guidance as set out within the Minimum Standards. BA Hons Degree Early Childhood Studies Foundation Degree in Early Childhood Studies QCF Level 5 Children s Care Learning and Development Management or Advanced Practice NVQ Level 4 Children s Care Learning and Development. CACHE Advanced Diploma in Childcare and Education Edexcel HND/C Advanced Practice in Work with Children and Families Edexcel HNC/HND Early Childhood Studies 15 Version 12 Dated 30 September 2015 JA

Acknowledging when this has not been achieved the registering Trust will propose a timeframe within which the management qualification must be achieved. It is reasonable that the qualification should be achieved within a two year timescale from the date of registration for the course. This applies mainly to employees, existing and future, who are not currently working in a manager role in the sector Please note these are the minimum qualification requirements accepted at this level to meet regulatory requirements. Managers should continually seek professional development opportunities to enhance and extend their knowledge, leadership and management skills for the benefits of the staff team, children and families. NVQ level 3 Children s Care Learning and Development NVQ Level 3 Early Years Care and Education NVQ Level 3 Childcare and Education Edexcel National Diploma in Childcare Learning and Development (From 2007) Edexcel National Diploma in Early Years (Prior 2007) Edexcel National Diploma in Childhood Studies From 1994 Professional Qualifications and two years relevant experience as outlined on page 9 Sessional Care Early years Child Care Assistant QCF Level 2 Diploma in Children s Care Learning and Development QCF Level 3 Diploma in Children s Care Learning and Development QCF Level 2 Diploma in Playwork QCF Level 3 Diploma in Playwork BTEC National Diploma in Children s Care Learning and Development (CCLD) The BTEC CCLD qualification maps to the QCF Level 3 Diploma Childcare Learning and Development (CCLD) providing specified optional units are QCF Level 3/5 Diploma in Children s Care Learning and Development QCF Level 3 Diploma Children s Care Learning and Development NVQ Level 3 Children s Care Learning and Development NVQ Level 3 Early Years Care and Education NVQ Level 3 Childcare and Education Edexcel HND/C Advanced Practice in Work with Children and Families Edexcel HNC/HND Early Childhood Studies 16 Version 12 Dated 30 September 2015 JA

completed. The required optional units are: o Unit 9 Promoting Healthy Development and Living for Children and their Families o Unit 10 Promoting Wellbeing and Resilience in Children o Unit 11 Diet and Nutrition for Children o Unit 14 Psychological perspectives on children s behaviour o Unit 18 Support children s literacy o Unit 27 Meeting additional Requirements CACHE Level 3 Diploma Child Care and Education. This qualification is robust but there is a shortfall in content related to safeguarding. Learners who have completed/are completing this qualification will also need to top up their learning by completing the unit CYP 3.3 Understand how to safeguard the wellbeing of children and young people. Foundation Degree in Early Childhood Studies Edexcel HND/C Advanced Practice in Work with Children and Families Edexcel National Diploma in Childcare Learning and Development (From 2007) Edexcel National Diploma in Early Years (Prior 2007) Edexcel National Diploma in Childhood Studies From 1994) QCF level 2 Children s Care Learning and Development NVQ Level 2 Children s Care Learning and Development NVQ Level 2 Early Years Care and Education NVQ Level 2 Childcare and Education At least 50% of Child Care staff should have a minimum qualification at QCF level 2 Diploma in Children s Care Learning and Development 17 Version 12 Dated 30 September 2015 JA

Sessional Care School Aged Childcare (SACC) (Stand-alone SACC provision i.e. not linked to Full Daycare) Minimum Qualification Requirements as Listed Within the Minimum Standards for Childminding and Daycare ( July,2012) i.e. applies to staff moving to a new post (e.g. career progression (deputy to leader/manager or assistant to leader/room supervisor) and for newly appointed posts at all levels Suggested Higher Level Progression Routes NB - staff qualified to this level will also meet regulatory requirements Equivalent Acceptable Qualifications for Existing Employees i.e. If a child care worker moves to a new post at the same level, their existing qualification will remain acceptable for the purposes of registration. It is important to note however that employers are at liberty to set their own qualification requirements in line with the requirements of the Job role and the guidance as set out within the Minimum Standards. Leader /Deputy Leader Stand Alone SACC Or QCF Level 5 Diploma in Playwork. QCF Level 5 Diploma in Children s Care Learning and Development Management Professional Qualification in any of the following; Social Work, Nursing, Midwifery, Health Visiting, Teaching and at least two years paid experience in employment working with children of the age group relevant to the setting they will be working in. Playwork Degree Table 3 outlines additional progression routes QCF level 3 Playwork NVQ 3 Playwork Level 3 Award in Transition to Playwork NVQ Playwork level 4 Playwork Degree BA Hons Degree Early Childhood Studies Foundation Degree in Early Childhood Studies NVQ Level 4 Children s Care Learning and Development. QCF Level 5 Children s Care Learning and Development 18 Version 12 Dated 30 September 2015 JA

NOTE: The new requirements for staff qualifications include a lead-in time (Minimum Standards (DHSS&PS 2012 Page 37). Acknowledging when this has not been achieved the registering Trust will propose a timeframe within which the management qualification must be achieved. It is reasonable that the qualification should be achieved within a two year timescale from the date of registration for the course. This applies mainly to employees, existing and future, who are not currently working in a manager role in the sector Please note these are the minimum qualification requirements accepted at this level to meet regulatory requirements. Managers should continually seek professional development opportunities to enhance and extend their knowledge, leadership and management skills for the benefits of the staff team, children and families. SACC Assistant QCF Level 2 in Playwork. QCF Level 3 in Playwork. Or QCF Level 2 or 3 Diploma in Children s Care Learning and Development BTEC National Diploma in QCF Level 3/4/5 Playwork QCF level 5 Diploma in Children s Care Learning and Development Management Advanced Practice CACHE Advanced Diploma in Childcare and Education Edexcel HND/C Advanced Practice in Work with Children and Families Edexcel HNC/HND Early Childhood Studies NVQ level 3 Children s Care Learning and Development NVQ Level 3 Early Years Care and Education NVQ Level 3 Childcare and Education Edexcel National Diploma in Childcare Learning and Development (From 2007) Edexcel National Diploma in Early Years (Prior 2007) Edexcel National Diploma in Childhood Studies From 1994 Professional Qualifications and two years relevant experience as outlined on page 9 QCF level 3 Playwork NVQ 3 Playwork NVQ Level 2 Playwork Level 3 Award in Transition to Playwork QCF Level 3 Diploma Children s Care Learning and Development 19 Version 12 Dated 30 September 2015 JA

Children s Care Learning and Development (CCLD) The BTEC CCLD qualification maps to the QCF Level 3 Diploma Childcare Learning and Development (CCLD) providing specified optional units are completed. The required optional units are: o Unit 9 Promoting Healthy Development and Living for Children and their Families o Unit 10 Promoting Wellbeing and Resilience in Children o Unit 11 Diet and Nutrition for Children o Unit 14 Psychological perspectives on children s behaviour o Unit 18 Support children s literacy o Unit 27 Meeting additional Requirements CACHE Level 3 Diploma Child Care and Education. This qualification is robust but there is a shortfall in content related to safeguarding. Learners who have completed/are completing this qualification will also need to top up their learning by completing the unit QCF Level 5 Children s Care Learning and Development Advanced Practice NVQ Level 3 Children s Care Learning and Development NVQ Level 3 Early Years Care and Education NVQ Level 3 Childcare and Education. CACHE Advanced Diploma in Childcare and Education Edexcel HND/C Advanced Practice in Working with Children and Families Edexcel HNC/HND Early Childhood Studies Edexcel National Diploma in Childcare Learning and Development (From 2007) Edexcel National Diploma in Early Years (Prior 2007) Edexcel National Diploma in Childhood Studies From 1994) QCF Level 2 Children s Care Learning and Development NVQ Level 2 Children s Care Learning and Development NVQ Level 2 Early Years Care and Education NVQ Level 2 Childcare and Education 20 Version 12 Dated 30 September 2015 JA CYP 3.3 Understand how to safeguard the wellbeing of

children and young people. Foundation Degree in Early Childhood Studies Edexcel HND/C Advanced Practice in Work with Children and Families At least 50% of Child Care staff should have a minimum qualification at QCF level 2 in Playwork Other staff should be in the process of gaining this qualification within a reasonable time. 21 Version 12 Dated 30 September 2015 JA

Registered Homebased Childcare Existing Employees - Previously Recognised/Appropriate Qualifications Progression Pathways Childminder Childminding Assistant Childminders are not required to have a minimum qualification, however, they are required as part of the Minimum Standards for Childminding and Day Care for Children Under Age 12 to obtain and maintain training in core areas including safeguarding, first aid, and health and safety as required by the Health and Social Care Trusts. Childminders are encouraged to attain QCF Level 2 or 3 Diploma in Children s Care Learning and development (CCLD). Childminders should ensure that there is someone with a Paediatric First Aid Certificate on the premises at all times Assistants employed by a Childminder will be required to have undertaken training in the core areas including safeguarding, first aid, and health and safety QCF Level 2 or level 3 Diploma in Children s Care Learning and development At both levels it is important the Level 3 Unit 079 Understanding how to set up a home based childcare service is the required operational unit Higher level qualifications as listed for Managers within an early years or playwork setting QCF Level 2 or level 3 Diploma in Children s Care Learning and development At both levels it is important the Level 3 Unit 079 Understanding how to set up a home based childcare service is the required operational Unit Level 2 Certificate in Childminding Practice NB NICMA need to provide information as to how this qualification maps to CCLD level 2 and 3 before inclusion in this document (currently being piloted) 22 Version 12 Dated 30 September 2015 JA

Table 1: Training Providers Currently Delivering Children s Care Learning and Development Qualifications at Levels 2, 3 and 5 Training Provider Belfast Metropolitan College Area Covered Belfast Specific Location Specific CCLD of Delivery Qualifications on Offer Millfield Campus, Castlereagh Campus Level 2 Diploma CCLD Millfield Campus Millfield Campus, Castlereagh Campus CACHE Extended Diploma in Children s Care Learning and Development Millfield Campus Foundation Degree in Early Childhood Studies Millfield Campus Level 5 Diploma in Leadership CCLD Bryson Future Skills Belfast Belfast Level 2 Diploma CCLD Belfast Coalisland Training Services Southern Coalisland Level 2 Diploma CCLD Coalisland Hugh J O Boyle Belfast Belfast Level 2 Diploma CCLD Level 5 Diploma in Leadership CCLD South Eastern Co. Down Level 2 Diploma CCLD Level 5 Diploma in Leadership CCLD People 1st All Areas NI Wide Level 2 Diploma CCLD Level 5 Diploma CCLD 23 Version 12 Dated 30 September 2015 JA

Northern Regional College Northern Coleraine, Magherafelt, Ballymoney, Ballymena, Newtownabbey Coleraine, Magherafelt, Ballymoney, Ballymena, Newtownabbey Newtownabbey, Ballymoney Level 2 Diploma CCLD Level 5 Diploma in Leadership CCLD North West Regional College NICMA the Childminding Association Paragon Training NI Limited Western Strand Road Campus, Derry, Level 2 Diploma CCLD Limavady Strabane Strand Road Campus, Derry, Limavady Strabane Strand Road Campus, Derry, Limavady Strabane Level 5 Diploma in Leadership CCLD All areas NI Wide Level 2 Diploma CCLD All areas NI Wide Level 2 Diploma CCLD Level 5 Diploma in Leadership Right Choice Training Western Tyrone, Fermanagh Derry Level 2 Diploma CCLD Tyrone, Fermanagh, Derry Armagh Level 5 Diploma in Leadership Rutledge All Areas All Rutledge Branches Level 2 Diploma CCLD Early Years the Organisation for Young Children South Eastern Regional College Level 5 Diploma in Leadership All areas Belfast Level 5 Diploma CCLD in Leadership South Eastern Lisburn, Newtownards Downpatrick Level 2 Diploma CCLD Bangor & Downpatrick Level 5 Diploma in Leadership 24 Version 12 Dated 30 September 2015 JA

Southern Regional Armagh Armagh, Lurgan, Newry Level 2 Diploma CCLD College Banbridge Armagh, Banbridge, Lurgan, Newry Lurgan Newry Armagh, Lurgan, Newry CACHE Extended Diploma in Children s Care Learning and Development Newry Foundation Degree in Early Childhood Studies Banbridge, Lurgan Level 5 Diploma in Leadership CCLD South West College Western Omagh Level 2 Diploma CCLD Omagh, Dungannon & Enniskillen Dungannon Level 5 Diploma in Leadership Strabane Training Services Western Strabane Level 2 Diploma CCLD Swann Training Services Belfast Belfast Level 2 Diploma CCLD South Eastern North Down & Lisburn Level 2 Diploma CCLD The Link Works Southern Newry & Kilkeel Level 2 Diploma CCLD Wade Training Ltd Southern Portadown, Armagh, Newry & Lurgan Level 2 Diploma CCLD Workforce Training Services South Eastern Newcastle & Bangor Level 2 Diploma CCLD Workforce Training Services Continued Belfast Belfast Level 2 Diploma CCLD Northern Ballymena Carrickfergus Level 2 Diploma CCLD Disclaimer this information was current at June 2015 25 Version 12 Dated 30 September 2015 JA

Table 2: Training Providers Currently Delivering Playwork Qualifications Training Provider CCP Area Covered Specific Location of Delivery Specific Playwork Qualifications On Offer Belfast Metropolitan College Belfast Millfield Campus, Belfast North West Regional College Western Strand Road Campus, Derry Paragon Training Services Belfast Belfast Right Choice Training Southern Armagh Western Derry, Fermanagh & Tyrone C&G L2 Diploma in Playwork C&G L3 Diploma in Playwork C&G L4 Diploma in Playwork C&G L5 Diploma in Playwork C&G L3 Transition Award in Playwork (from Early Years) L2 Diploma in Playwork L3 Diploma in Playwork L3 Award in Transition to Playwork (from Early Years) L2 Diploma in Playwork L3 Diploma in Playwork L2 Diploma in Playwork L3 Diploma in Playwork L5 Diploma in Playwork L2 Diploma in Playwork L3 Diploma in Playwork L5 Diploma in Playwork People 1 st Belfast Northern Southern Belfast, Crumlin, Lisburn, Banbridge L2 Diploma in Playwork L3 Diploma in Playwork L5 Diploma in Playwork Level 3 Transition Award in Playwork ( from Early Years) Disclaimer this information was current at June 201 26 Version 12 Dated 30 September 2015 JA

Table 3: Training Providers Currently Delivering Higher Level Qualifications i.e. Level 6 and above in Northern Ireland Qualification Title Level Training Provider BA Early Childhood Studies 6 Stranmillis University College Post Graduate Certificate in Early Years Education (PGCE) (3-8 years) 6-7 Stranmillis University College The Bachelor of Education (BEd) Primary Degree Course 6 Stranmillis University College BA (Hons) Degree Playwork 6 Postgraduate Certificate in Early Years Leadership [2 modules, 60 CAT s Points]; PG students can exit with: 6-7 Stranmillis University College Postgraduate Certificate in Early Childhood Studies [2 modules, 60 CAT s Points]; Postgraduate Diploma in Early Childhood Studies [4 modules, 120 CAT s points]. Others stay on the pathway to complete their MA Early Childhood Studies [6 modules, 180 CAT s points]. BEd (Hons) Primary Degree BEd (Hons) Post-Primary Degree PGCE (Irish Medium Education) 6-7 St. Marys College Belfast Masters of Early Childhood Studies 7 Queens University Belfast Master of Education (MEd) Diploma in Advanced Studies in Education (DASE) Advanced Certificate in Education (AdvCertEd) Doctorate in Childhood Studies 7 St. Marys College Belfast 8 Queens University Belfast 27 Version 12 Dated 30 September 2015 JA

Useful Contacts, Websites, Resources Childcare Partnerships (CCP) CCP Contacts Office Address Email Address Telephone Number Belfast Training Officer Ashleigh Brown South Eastern Training Officer Ashleigh Brown Northern Training Officer Anita Mason Western Training Officer Anita Mason Southern Training Officer Siobhan Hughes HSCB 12-22 Linenhall Street Belfast BT2 8BS HSCB 12-22 Linenhall Street Belfast BT2 8BS County Hall 182 Galgorm Road Ballymena BT42 1QB Gransha Park House 15 Gransha Park Clooney Road Londonderry BT47 6FN Tower Hill Armagh BT61 9DR ashleigh.brown@hscni.net (028)95363022 ashleigh.brown@hscni.net (028)95363022 anita.mason@hscni.net (028)95361042 anita.mason@hscni.net (028)95361042 Siobhan.hughes@hscni.net (028) 95362004 28 Version 12 Dated 30 September 2015 JA

Sector Skills Councils SkillsActive Website (for Northern Ireland): www.skillsactive.com/country/northern-ireland SkillsActive is officially recognised as the Sector Skills Council for Active Leisure, Learning and Well-being. Active Leisure, Learning and Well-being and is made up of seven sectors: sport, fitness, outdoors, playwork, caravans, hair and beauty. Skills for Care & Development Website: www.skillsforcareanddevelopment.org.uk Skills for Care & Development (SfC&D) is the sector skills council for people working in early years, children and young people's services, and those working in social work and social care for adults and children in the UK. This sector has a workforce of over 1.87 million people. The SfC&D strategy aims to empower employers to develop a workforce that is innovative, skilled and sustainable; SfC&D want to ensure workers are flexible and equipped to drive employer investment in service innovation towards integrated, community solutions workers have the skills, knowledge and values to deliver safe, high quality and professional services that promote public trust and confidence there are enough workers with the right skills in the right places, able to meet the increasing demand for care and support. SfC&D s ambition is for a world-class workforce; one that fosters economic growth and sustainable communities across the UK. This will be reached through progressive high impact social work, social care and services for children. 29 Version 12 Dated 30 September 2015 JA

Playwork Education and Training Council (NI) Secretariat: PlayBoard This is the Playwork Sector group that brings together employers, trainers, Awarding Bodies and other relevant Agencies, such as PlayBoard to oversee and inform the development of Playwork qualifications in Northern Ireland. The group feeds directly into the 4Nations Playwork Training Forum. Family Support NI Website: www.familysupportni.gov.uk A new childcare and family support iphone and Android app has been developed for the Family Support NI website. This app provides constant fingertip access to information about registered childcare provision and family support services throughout Northern Ireland. Information for this app is sourced from the Family Support NI website which is an online directory of family support services and registered childcare provision throughout Northern Ireland. The app features a search for various types of family support and registered childcare providers by District Council Area, by Postcode or by using a GPS Locator. The app can be accessed by searching for Childcare & Family Support NI on App store or Google Play. https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/childcare-family-support-ni/id858506900?mt=8 https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.origin.fsni&hl=en 30 Version 12 Dated 30 September 2015 JA

Northern Ireland Childminding Association Website: www.nicma.org NICMA is a membership organisation and professional body working to support and develop quality home-based childcare and learning for the benefit of children, families & communities. NICMA s vision for the future is one where all children are cared for, and provided with the opportunity to learn and develop in a safe, enjoyable home environment and where childminders are recognised and valued as skilled, qualified professionals. PlayBoard Northern Ireland Website: http://www.playboard.org PlayBoard is an independent charity and the lead organisation for the development and promotion of children and young people s play in Northern Ireland. Since its establishment in 1985, PlayBoard has been committed to supporting children and young people s play through a combination of: Service delivery and development Campaigning and lobbying Research, evaluation and awareness raising Working in partnership with others to put play on the agenda of policy makers and resource providers Promoting best practice in Play and Playwork A membership organisation, PlayBoard works closely with and provides support to over 100 member groups, all of whom are committed to helping us to achieve our goal of developing quality play opportunities that improve children and young people s lives across Northern Ireland 31 Version 12 Dated 30 September 2015 JA

Early Years the organisation for Young Children Website: www.early-years.org Early Years is the largest organisation in Northern Ireland working with and for young children. They are a nonprofit making organisation and have been working since 1965 to promote high quality childcare for children aged 0-12 and their families. Early Years is a membership-based organisation, a registered charity, a company limited by guarantee and is governed by a Board of Directors. Currently Early Years provides information and training for parents, childcare providers, employers and local authorities. Employers for Childcare Website: www.employersforchildcare.org Employers for Childcare is a campaigning charity which developed from a community project set up in 1998, encouraging employers to implement family friendly policies in the workplace. Childcare Solutions is part of Employers For Childcare Charitable Group, which also incorporates Employers for Childcare Vouchers. Both Childcare Solutions and Employers for Childcare Vouchers operate as a Social Enterprise. The charity service offers advice and information to parents, carries out research and provides employment opportunities for those interested in a career in childcare. Employers for Childcare provide an Approved Home Childcare service to parents, a recruitment services to day nurseries and other childcare setting and a unique childcare service tor parents of children with a disability. Altram Website: www.altram.org Altram is the regional support group for Irish Medium early years groups. It was founded in 1990 by local preschools in Derry, Belfast, Armagh and Newry. Altram was set up to; support Irish Medium early years providers, improve the standards of provision in the sector and promote the importance of early years in Irish Medium Education. 32 Version 12 Dated 30 September 2015 JA

Standards and Guidance 1. Department of Health, Social Services and Public Services - Childminding and Day Care for Children Under Age 12 Minimum Standards http://www.dhsspsni.gov.uk/early_years_standards_-_july_2012.pdf 2. Health and Social Care Board Childminding and Day Care for Children Under Age 12 Minimum Standards IMPLEMENTATION GUIDANCE http://www.hscboard.hscni.net/publications/childminding_and_day_care_guidance/03%20childminding_stand ards_implementation_guidance-july2013.pdf Funding To help support learners in accessing training we have included this list of potential funding opportunities. Each funder will have their own criteria for what and how they fund and learners will have to apply for funding and show how they meet the required criteria. Department of Employment and Learning NI Level 2 and 3 Apprenticeship Framework Children s Care, Learning and Development Level 2 - http://www.nidirect.gov.uk/level-2-10-childrens-care-learning-and-development-02-11.pdf?rev=2 Level 3 - http://www.nidirect.gov.uk/appni-level-3-323-childrens-care-learning-development.pdf?rev=2 33 Version 12 Dated 30 September 2015 JA

Further Education Support Funds http://www.nidirect.gov.uk/discretionary-support-funds Career Development Loans - https://www.gov.uk/career-development-loans Further Education Awards - http://www.welbni.org/index.cfm/do/studfin Colleges NI Information on student finance support - http://www.collegesni.ac.uk/colleges-ni-news- Item.aspx?id=163 Student Finance NI Higher Education (QCF Level 5 P/T) - http://www.studentfinanceni.co.uk/portal/page?_pageid=54,1265897&_dad=portal&_schema=portal City and Guilds Bursaries - http://www.cityandguilds.com/help/help-for-learners/funding-and-bursaries For contact details of Northern Ireland Further Education Colleges go to Colleges NI Click here for contact details and further information for Apprenticeships NI Training Providers 34 Version 12 Dated 30 September 2015 JA