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Early Years

If you want to work in the early years sector, this pathway provides you with a clear route into this rewarding industry.

Our programmes combine theoretical study in college with significant practical experience, preparing you to work competently, safely and effectively with children and their families in a wide range of environments.

You will be expected to attend work placements in a variety of settings for two days per week, which will build to a total of up to 650 hours of experience every year. During work placements you will gain the confidence to plan and evaluate activities and develop excellent observation skills.

Experience is a key feature that employers look for and your time spent on work placements will be invaluable in putting you ahead of the competition!

Throughout your programme, you will also get opportunities to go on trips, follow projects set by employers and take part in employability events such as mock interviews, job fairs and CV-writing sessions.

You’ll also have the opportunity to build your skills within our own forest school, ‘The Island’, at City of Oxford College. 

Working in the early years sector involves supervising play and other activities for pre-school age children, as well as assisting teachers and caring for children in day or residential nurseries, children’s homes and private households.

The demand for childminders and those working in pre-school environments is increasing following the introduction of 30 funded hours per week for three and four-year-olds of working parents in 2017.

In South East England, there are over 50,000 job roles and over 2000 openings per year for child development and well-being roles. In the South East England, job roles in this sector are 9% above the national average.

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Amelia
Amelia, Childcare, Level 3 Although college is about being more independent, the tutors are there for us if we need them. The tutors are really approachable and friendly
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