Early Years and Youth Work - Level 1

Essentials

Duration: 1 Year Full-time
Start date: 1st September 2026
End date: 4th June 2027
Information Event: Yes

Course fee: FREE (Eligibility criteria may apply)

Course Content

The Level 1 Early Years and Youth Work course is an excellent foundation programme for learners who want to begin a career working with children and young people. It is designed to help learners build confidence, develop practical skills, and gain real-world experience in early years and youth work settings. As part of this programme, learners will complete the NCFE CACHE Level 1 Diploma in Caring for Children and the OCN NI Level 1 Award in Youth Work.

Course Structure

• 3 days per week in college
• 1 day per week placement in an early years or youth work setting
• Full-time programme with structured tutor support

Safeguarding & Placement

A suitable placement is a mandatory part of the course AccessNI clearance must be in place before starting placement Learners will be supported by staff to secure and complete placement requirements

• At least 16 years of age on or before 1 July in the year of proposed entry to the course
• Interest in working with children and young people
• Successful completion of an interview AccessNI clearance is required to undertake the mandatory placement (support provided by the college)
• English & Maths: Learners must complete Essential Skills in Communication and/or Application of Number if they have not already achieved GCSE English and Maths at Grade C/4 or above (or equivalent)

On successful completion of the course, learners may progress to:

• Level 2 Early Years qualifications
• Level 2 Youth Work qualifications
• Further study in Health & Social Care Entry-level employment or volunteering (subject to requirements) in early years or youth settings