The Department

Curriculum Leader: Miss H Bowman

GCSE (equivalent)

Exam Board: OCR

Specification Number: Cambridge National in Child Development Level 1/2 Award (J809)

What is Child Development?

The Cambridge National in Child Development is a practical-based qualification which equips the learner with the knowledge and skills to nurture and care for children in their early years. Candidates will examine child development from the point of conception through to 5 years of age, developing a thorough understanding of the importance of effective early years childcare. This is achieved through a variety of approaches, including undertaking research tasks, examining case studies, exploring public campaigns, liaising with childcare establishments, visiting speakers, and engaging in local work experience.

Why Choose Child Development?

This GCSE equivalent qualification will inspire and equip the candidate with independence and confidence in using skills that are relevant to the childcare sector. Studying Child Development, candidates will explore:

• The biological development of a baby, from embryo to newborn
• Opportunities to promote positive health and wellbeing for child development
• Creating safe and nurturing environments for children to thrive
• Investigating the nutritional requirements of children from birth to five years and developing suitable meal plans
• Researching appropriate equipment to meet children’s needs in their early years
• A Child Study: developing research-based learning opportunities through play and psychological techniques in observation to evaluate their approach

Besides acquiring vocationally relevant knowledge and experience, candidates will also acquire the transferable skills of independent research techniques, presentation and communication skills and the opportunity to work together as a team.

Assessment

Students will study the following three units:

Unit	Title	Type of Assessment	% Weighting
R057	Health & well-being for child development	Examination	40%
R058	Create a safe environment and understand the nutritional needs of children from birth to five years	Centre Assessed Task	30%
R059	Understand the development of a child from one to five years	Centre Assessed Task	30%

Post – 16 and Career Opportunities

Candidates can progress on to study courses in Level 3 Health & Social Care or A-levels in Biology, Sociology or Psychology. The award could also contribute towards meeting the entry requirements for training in midwifery, teaching, maternity care, nursing, and working with children in care. There are also many apprenticeship opportunities available within childcare and child development.

Course Requirements

This course is suitable for all ability levels, with the opportunity for each student to optimise their potential.