Introduction to Early Learning and Childcare Level 4 (SCP)

Course overview

This part-time course is for senior phase school pupils only while attending school.

This SCQF Level 4 Childhood Practice course is engaging and interactive, providing skills and knowledge related to working with children and young people.

Pupils can study towards SCQF level 4 or level 5 units, depending on ability and understanding.

We advise the appropriate level is indicated by the level of English or Communications being studied in 2025/26 at school.  For example, if you plan on studying National 4 English at school, then apply for Early Learning and Childcare Level 4.

Key topics will include children's development and how play supports this and contributes to their well-being. You will also explore a range of micro-topics designed to give an insight into all aspects of working with children and young people.

For further information please contact Duncan Munro. duncan.munro@edinburghcollege.ac.uk

What you will learn

Level 4 Units in:

• Play in Early Learning and Childcare (SQA)
• Child Development (SQA)
• Introduction to Meta-Skills for Childhood Practice (Edinburgh College unit)
• Outdoor Play and Learning in Childhood Practice (Edinburgh College unit)
• Sustainability in Childhood Practice (Edinburgh College unit)

Placement information

• There is no work placement on this course. You will not complete a Protecting Vulnerable Groups (PVG) disclosure check.
• Placements are a mandatory part of our SSSC registrable, full-time, Childhood Practice courses at SCQF 6 and 7, and these courses require a PVG Disclosure check. 
• When considering studying or working in this sector, please consider The PVG scheme. This scheme helps to protect children and adults within our sector therefore we require a clear PVG to enable you to proceed with an application for a course.  If you have any questions regarding this please get in contact to discuss. 

How the course is assessed

• Continual Assessment using a variety of methods.
• You will be assessed continually throughout the course
• You will build folios of work, write reports, record learning experiences and and reflect on your learning

Number of days per week

• This course is delivered on Tuesdays and Thursdays, 1.30 PM - 4.00 PM
• This course is offered at our Milton Road and Sighthill campuses

Entry requirements

• Demand for places on this course is high, with limited spaces available. You should have achieved or be working towards National 4 English or Communications in the 2025/26 Academic year.
• Selection will be based on the applicant's personal statement
• We expect applicants to be enthusiastic and committed to working with children.
• Applicants should be committed to completing the course and the full 2025/26 session at school.

You should NOT apply if studying Skills for Work Childcare Group Awards C78274, or C78375 or included units, at school in 25/26

Information on Tests / Auditions / Interview Requirements

• Selection will be based on the applicant's personal statement

Writing a personal statement

Your personal statement is an important part of your application and it can help us to decide if you are suitable for the course.

To make sure that you are giving us all the information we need to consider your application fully, please include the following:

• Your reasons for applying for this course. Why does it interest you? Why are you suitable for this course?
• Details of any relevant qualifications that you have to meet the course entry requirements
• Information about any courses or training you have done that are relevant – this can include certificated training such as First Aid or CPD courses
• Details of any work experience (paid or voluntary) that is relevant to the course
• Your future career plans – how will this course help you to reach your goals?

You should check that the statement is written clearly, and using appropriate language. It is a good idea to ask someone to proofread the statement before sending it.

English Proficiency Requirements

To enable our students the best opportunity of achieving this course, applicants for whom English is an additional language require an existing English language certificate at IELTS Level 5.5 or equivalent. 

Progression and Articulation Routes

Progression to SCP course:

• Higher Childcare and Development

Progression to full-time college:

• Childhood Practice Level 4
• Childhood Practice Level 5
• NC in Early Education and Childcare
• PDA Education Support Assistance

 

Career options

This course is designed for you to progress on to further study. The course will not lead to direct employment in a Childcare setting.

Courses and qualifications that lead to SSSC registration for working with children and young people at Edinburgh College are:

• NC Childhood Practice (SCQF level 6) 
• PDA Education Support Assistance (SCQF Level 6)
• HNC Childhood Practice (SCQF Level 7).