What Will Happen At My First Lesson
TBC

Qualification Aim/Level
Diploma in Playwork Level 2 NCFE CACHE

Who is this course for?
This qualification is for those who work with children between the ages of 4 and 16 in playwork settings such as: before and after school clubs, holiday playschemes, adventure playgrounds, open access play settings such as soft play centres, play rangers. Learners must be at least 16 years of age and should have attained at least Level 1 in English. (Where learners are unable to provide certification we can give access to assessment please ask at your local centre). This qualification is designed to provide learners with the knowledge and understanding of the principles and theories that underpin playwork and the importance of play in the lives of children aged 4-16. It covers the knowledge and skills needed when working under supervision and requires the learner to demonstrate the full application of knowledge and understanding over a period of time in the workplace. Learners will be assigned an assessor who will visit the workplace and observe all elements of practice. English and maths are important requirements for progression to higher level qualifications and work with children and young people. Where learners have not yet attained an English qualification they will be asked to undertake formal assessment and encouraged to follow a study path that is recommended as part of this assessment. We also recommend where learners have not yet achieved at least a Level 2 (GCSE A-C) qualification in maths they have a commitment to working towards this in the near future

What can I expect to Learn?
To be awarded this qualification, learners need to achieve 56 credits; 40 credits from 12 mandatory units and 16 from optional units. Mandatory units are: Understand the playwork principles Understand the playwork setting Meeting children's needs in a playwork setting Child centred practice in a playwork setting Understand how to support children with SEND in a playwork setting Support relationships in a playwork setting Support children's play Support health and safety and security in a playwork setting Risk benefit for children Safeguarding and welfare of children in a playwork setting Support the work of the playwork team Develop own practice Optional units will be discussed with the assessor at induction.

How will I learn?
Group workshop learning sessions will take place online with a tutor. You will need a stable internet connection, an email address and a laptop, pc or tablet to attend online classes. There is also an electronic portfolio. Your tutor will use a number of different teaching methods to develop your knowledge and skills. These will include a wide range of authentic materials, individual study, working in pairs/group activities and will include the use of video/audio. You will also have the opportunity to use online learning technologies to develop your skills. Your assessor will support you with written assignments, give feedback and develop your work to meet the qualification standards. Your assessor will also visit you in the workplace to observe you working with children and collect evidence for your qualification. They will speak with your line manager and mentor to review your progress.

How will I know how well I am doing?
Your tutor and assessor will discuss your progress with you providing written and verbal feedback on your work. You will be formally assessed through set tasks which are marked by your tutor/assessor and moderated by an internal moderator. You will be observed by your tutor/assessor at work demonstrating your skills as required by the qualification standards. You will be encouraged to reflect on your own learning and development to work towards targets set by your line manager and tutor/assessor.

Will I need to do extra work at home?
Yes. You will need to complete homework tasks and background reading and research on a regular basis throughout the course.

What will I need to provide?
Pens, paper, A4 project folder. PC, laptop or tablet with camera and microphone (a mobile phone is not suitable for the workshop sessions). We may be able to support you with the required equipment if you are unable to access any of these.

What is the cost of the course?
If you are eligible, this qualification will be fully funded with bursary funding.

Are there any other costs?
The tutor will recommend appropriate course texts which you may wish to purchase or obtain from the library (approximate price £20-25). You may find it advantageous to have an up to date library card to access a wider range of texts and to secure internet access if you do not have this at home.

What can I do next?
Learners who achieve this qualfication can progress to Level 3 Playwork qualfications to develop their career in playwork settings.

Who can I contact for more information?
For all enquiries regarding this course please contact our Vocational Team on 0333 01 39502