INTRODUCTION TO WORKING IN HEALTH & SOCIAL CARE & WITH CHILDREN Level 1

Level 1
Further Education
Newry Campus
Lurgan Campus

Overview

College Connect+ courses are being offered subject to confirmation of funding for the Step Up Programme in 2025-26.

This is a newly developed level 1 diploma for individuals interested in progressing onto a level 2 programme of study in Childcare or Health & Social Care.

This course will provide learners with an opportunity to build confidence, explore career options, build on existing skills and gain qualifications while also benefiting from one-to-one mentorship.

This programme runs from September 2025 until March 2026.

Learners must demonstrate the capacity to undertake a level 1 programme of study in the technical area alongside working towards their Essential Skills qualifications and undertaking a practical placement.

Please note that Learning Support cannot be provided to learners on this course.

Students will:

Understand the range of service provision and roles within health and social care (adults, children and young people), early years and childcare.
Understand the principles and values in health and social care (adults, children and young people), early years and childcare.
Be aware of safeguarding in health and social care (adults, children and young people), early years and childcare.
Be aware of health and safety in health and social care (adults, children and young people), early years and childcare.
Be introduced to awareness of inclusion and disability.
Be introduced to communication in health and social care (adults, children and young people), early years and childcare.
Be introduced to a healthy lifestyle.
Be introduced to partnership working in health and social care (adults, children and young people), early years and childcare.
Be introduced to physical disability.
Be introduced to dementia.
Be introduced to the physical care of babies and young children.
Be introduced to the development of children and young people through play.

Assessment methods will include written work booklets, posters, presentations and group activities.

Evaluations of work placement will also be utilised for individuals considering applying for Level 2 Children's Care Learning and Development or Level 2 Health and Social Care programmes.

Successful students who have attained the level 1 Diploma and level 1 Essential Skills (if required) can consider progression to the Level 2 Traineeship in Children's Care, Learning & Development or Health and Social Care or any other level 2 programmes offered within the College (subject to entry requirements).

This course will open up pathways in a range of employment areas which include Childcare or Health and Social Care. This course however will enable individuals to pursue a career in many other areas also.