LEADERSHIP FOR CHILDREN'S CARE LEARNING AND DEVELOPMENT (MANAGEMENT) Level 5 Diploma

The over-riding consideration in admitting applicants to the course, is evidence that the learner or apprentice is likely to be able to complete the course satisfactorily.

Attendance at Individual or Group Pre-Entry Advice Sessions (IPEAS and GPEAS) may be required. These interviews may take place either on campus, via telephone or video call (Microsoft Teams) and will play an important role in the selection of all courses.

Applicants must be at least 18 years of age on or before 1st July in the year of proposed entry to the course.

• Applicants must have attained a Level 3 Diploma in Childcare and Education or equivalent
• Applicants must currently be employed as a manager or assistant manager in an early years setting
• An interview will play an integral role in the issue of an offer to this programme

The College’s Admissions Policy reflects the expectations of the UK Quality Code May 2023. Please note that applicants progressing to higher education courses at Level 4 and above in the College or UK Universities may require a specific GCSE/A-Level profile. In some cases, the Essential Skills in Literacy and Numeracy may not be a suitable alternative to a GCSE. The list of acceptable qualifications for equivalency to English and mathematics for Ulster University is available from the following link: https://www.ulster.ac.uk/apply/entrance-requirements#eng. It is the responsibility of the applicant to check each University’s progression requirements before enrolling on a course at the College.

The entrance criteria above may change subject to awarding body regulations. The College reserves the right to enhance the entrance requirements where demand exceeds the number of available places. In addition, where places remain available the College reserves the right to offer places to candidates with a profile less than that listed above.

Applicants who do not meet the criteria outlined above but have evidence of substantial knowledge or relevant industrial experience and skills, which has not been formally assessed, should refer to the College’s Accreditation of Prior Experience and Learning (APEL) Procedure.

For further detail on our entry requirements please review our Admissions Policy & Criteria.

Year 1 modules include:

• Induction/Study Skills
• Support Children’s Care, Learning and Development in the Early Years
• Understand Children and Young Person’s Development
• Lead Practice that Supports Positive Outcomes
• Use and Develop Systems that Promote Communication
• Champion Equality, Diversity and Inclusion
• Explore Models of Disability
• Professional Practice in Children’s Care, Learning and Development
• Promote Professional Development
• Work in Partnership in Children

Year 2 modules include:

• Develop and Implement Policies and Procedures to Support Safeguarding
• Develop Health, Safety and Risk Management Policies, Procedures and Practices
• Develop Professional Supervision Practice in Children and Young People’s Settings
• Lead and Manage a Team within a Children and Young People’s Setting
• Recruitment and Selection Within Children and Young People’s Settings
• Manage Induction in Children and Young People’s Settings
• Appraise Staff Performance
• Manage Physical Resources
• Develop the Environment for Children and Young People
• Young People's Settings
• Manage Quality in Children

Assessment will reflect a wide range of methods including

• Written assignments
• Oral questions
• Case studies
• Reflective practice
• Direct observations

Where the exam/awarding body fee is listed as TBC in the full fee breakdown, the information has not yet been released by our partner awarding bodies for 25/26. This fee will be updated as soon as it becomes available.

Fees displayed for each course represent fees to be charged for year 1 of each programme. Please note that fees may increase in year 2 or 3 of the course. Read more in our Fees Policy at https://www.src.ac.uk/about-us...

On successful completion of this course learners may progress to the Level 7 Award in Strategic Management and Leadership or BA (Hons) Degree in Early Childhood Studies.

This course will also enhance the learners professional development in line with the minimum standards for childminding and day-care for children under age 12.

Graduates of this programme will be highly skilled professionals ready to take on leadership roles within the children’s care and educational sectors. This qualification equips individuals with the knowledge and practical abilities to lead, manage, and develop services that support the well-being and development of children, from early years to adolescence. Below are some of the key career opportunities available to those who complete this diploma:

1. Children’s Care Manager

Management of children’s care facilities, including nurseries, residential care homes, or children’s centres. In this role, you will oversee day-to-day operations, staff management, budgeting, and ensure that care is delivered according to regulations and best practices. Strong leadership skills are essential to inspire teams and ensure children receive the best care possible.

2. Nursery Manager

As a nursery manager, you will be responsible for running a childcare setting, managing both staff and children’s daily activities, ensuring compliance with regulatory standards, and developing educational programmes.

3. Early Years Manager

In this leadership role, you will manage the delivery of care and education in the early years sector. This may involve overseeing settings like preschools, reception classes, or early intervention programmes.

4. Learning and Development Manager (Children’s Services)

As a learning and development manager, you will oversee the training and professional development of staff working with children. This could be within schools, nurseries, or care facilities. Your role will involve identifying training needs, creating development plans, and ensuring that staff are equipped with the knowledge and skills required to support children's growth and learning effectively.

5. Childcare Quality Improvement Officer

In this role, you would work within local authorities or large organisations, monitoring and evaluating the quality of childcare services. You would be responsible for assessing settings against regulatory frameworks, providing feedback and advice, and ensuring that children’s services meet national standards of care and education.

6. Family Support Manager

Graduates can manage services that support children and families, particularly in areas like parenting support, child protection, or family mediation. As a family support manager, you would work closely with families, providing guidance, resources, and referrals to other services, ensuring children’s well-being and safeguarding.

7. Safeguarding Lead

As a safeguarding lead, you will be responsible for ensuring that children are protected from harm within your care setting. You will oversee safeguarding policies and procedures, train staff, and act as a point of contact for any safeguarding concerns.

8. Child Protection Officer

In this vital role, graduates may work within social services or schools to protect children from abuse, neglect, or harm. The role involves liaising with families, schools, and other professionals, conducting assessments, and ensuring children’s safety and welfare in accordance with legal requirements.