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Childcare Intermediate

This course will help you learn how to support children as they grow, learn, and play giving you the skills you need to work in childcare or move on to the next level of study.

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Start Date: 7 Sep 2026

Mode of Study: Full-Time

Location: Chaffron Way Campus

Days: Mon to Fri

Apply now

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Course overview

What will I do?

What’s next?

Is it for me?

Apply now

Course overview

This course helps you understand how babies and young children develop from birth to 7 years old, with a main focus on early years (birth to 5 years).

You’ll learn what it takes to be an Early Years Practitioner, gaining the knowledge and practical skills used by people working in nurseries, preschools, and childcare settings.

What will I do?

You’ll take part in lessons, group activities, and hands-on projects that help you learn how to care for and support children.

You’ll study topics such as:

How children grow and learn
Learning through play
Health, safety, and wellbeing
Communication and teamwork
Observing and supporting children’s development

You’ll also build confidence working both in groups and on your own.

What’s next?

When you finish this course, you can move on to the Childcare Advanced (Level 3) course or a childcare apprenticeship.

These will give you more experience and open doors to roles in nurseries, preschools, and primary schools.

Is it for me?

This course is a great choice if you:

Enjoy spending time with young children
Are kind, caring, and patient
Like helping others and trying new things
Work well with other people

Our friendly tutors will support you with your learning and help you reach your goals.

Entry requirements

You’ll need:

3 other GCSEs at grade 3, including either Maths or English
Grade 4 in Maths and English

Frequently asked questions

How will I study?

You’ll spend 3 days a week in College and 2 days doing work experience in a childcare setting, so you can put what you learn into practice.

Work Experience

You’ll need to be working or on placement in a childcare setting. It’s recommended that you complete around 250 hours of work experience during the course.

How will I be assessed?

You’ll be assessed through written coursework and practical observations while on placement.

EXPLORE COURSES

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today

How to apply

Childcare Intermediate
(A534P-1/1)

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Start Date

7 Sep 2026

Days

Mon to Fri

Location

Chaffron Way Campus

Our College, your future…

Introduction to Care Professions

Do you want to make a difference in children’s lives or support others in need? If you’ve always had an understanding nature and a passion for helping others, a career in childcare or health and social care can be incredibly rewarding. With the care industry more in demand than ever, these courses offer you the chance to develop essential skills and gain a broad understanding of sectors through a variety of specialist units, paving the way for a fulfilling career.
Courses Available

Childcare – Intermediate

Health & Social Care Intermediate

Health & Social Care Advanced

T Level in Education and Early years
How to get into the industry

Many childcare careers do not need high level qualifications but do need a genuine love for children and interest in their welfare and development. Teaching careers require a degree and qualified teacher status. Working hours are usually Mon-Fri, but may include early mornings and late evenings as part of wrap-around care or to prepare for the next day.
Courses Available

T Level Technical Qualification in Childcare – Assisting Teaching

T Level Technical Qualification in Health
Student Success Stories

Our students make a real difference in people’s lives, gaining hands-on experience and the confidence, compassion, and skills to build rewarding careers in care.

Real-life experience sparks nursing ambition for aspiring student

Read the case study

Betty Sarah– Learning through care

Watch the video
Why study at Milton Keynes College?

Milton Keynes College offers fantastic facilities, dedicated support, and a wide range of qualifications. Our courses are designed with industry partners, ensuring you gain relevant skills for better employability. Located near some of the country’s largest businesses, the college provides excellent networking and professional opportunities, giving you an advantage when starting your career.

Why choose College?

There’s so much more to college than just your study programme. You’ll have the chance to make new friends and meet like-minded people, gaining more free time and independence in a less formal environment than at school. Milton Keynes College provides financial support and real working environments, giving you practical experience. You can also benefit from work experience opportunities with local and national businesses. By joining the student community, you’ll be part of a supportive network that enhances your personal and professional growth.

Application Journey

The application journey starts with researching your options to find the best course for you. From September, you can apply online. College interviews begin in November, giving you a chance to present yourself and learn more about our college. Discovery Days in July allow you to come on campus and get a real taste of college life. In August, you will receive your GCSE results, which are key for finalising your college placement. Enrolment then happens in August and September with your course beginning in September.

Ready to get started?

Take the next steps in your journey to joining us.

Download our Prospectus

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