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Award in Childcare and Early Education (EQF/MQF Level 3)

About Course

The Teaching, Learning and Assessment Procedures are structured to provide participants with both strong theoretical foundations and practical competencies through a dynamic and learner-centred approach. Core concepts are delivered through interactive lectures that encourage questions, discussion, and active engagement to reinforce understanding. Learning is strengthened through hands-on practice, where participants apply knowledge in scenario-based activities designed to refine practical skills. Group work promotes collaborative learning, peer-to-peer interaction, shared problem-solving, and cooperative practice. Case studies further enhance critical thinking and decision-making abilities by allowing participants to analyse and respond to realistic situations. Knowledge consolidation is supported through quizzes and written assessments, while video tutorials provide visual guidance on complex procedures and extend learning beyond scheduled sessions. Continuous assessment of practical skills throughout the programme ensures that participants achieve the required competencies prior to certification. Assessment methods include online presentations, written examinations, case studies, assignments, and placement evaluations, all completed through the online platform in alignment with course modules and learning objectives. Clear instructions, deadlines, and constructive feedback are provided for every task to ensure transparency and academic support. Each module concludes with a final online presentation, which constitutes 100% of the module’s assessment. A points-based grading system with detailed rubrics ensures fairness and clarity in evaluation. The assessment rubric allocates a total of 100 points across five key areas (20 points each): Child Development, Safeguarding and Protection; Supporting Children’s Wellbeing and Mental Health; Health, Safety and Nutrition in Early Years Settings; Inclusive Practice and Supporting Diverse Needs; and Partnerships with Families and Other Professionals. For each category, 19–20 points reflect exceptional understanding, 15–18 points indicate good understanding, 11–14 points demonstrate incomplete understanding, and 0–10 points represent limited understanding. Overall performance levels are defined as follows: 91–100 (Outstanding), 81–90 (Good), 61–80 (Satisfactory), and 0–60 (Unsatisfactory).
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Learning Outcomes

  • Understand and apply the best strategies to fulfil and support children’s needs in accordance with the principles of child development across physical, cognitive, emotional, and social domains.
  • Analyse and implement activities helping and supporting children to develop their skills and reaching milestones.
  • Evaluate and use developmentally appropriate practices to support children’s growth and learning.
  • Implement activities to engage families in their child’s education, fostering strong partnerships between home and childcare settings.
  • Use observation and assessment techniques to evaluate children’s learning needs and make informed decisions about their care and education.
  • Apply principles of inclusive education accordingly to support children with diverse needs, ensuring all children feel valued and supported.
  • Design, implement, and maintain safe, inclusive, and stimulating learning environments that promote positive interactions.
  • Explain different strategies to support learning as well as managing behaviour positively and preventing challenging behaviours.
  • Recognise and describe developmental milestones in children from birth to school age.
  • Define different practices and how they can support children’s overall development.
  • Explain language and communication techniques to be used while sharing information with parents related to children’s progress.
  • Describe a range of teaching strategies appropriate to support young learners.
  • Define different teaching strategies and approaches to ensure inclusion and supporting children’s learning process.
  • Ensure adherence to health, safety, and nutrition guidelines for young children.
  • Plan in order to support and have a positive impact on children’s learning and behaviour according to their development stage.
  • Design age-appropriate learning activities that support cognitive, social, emotional, and physical development.
  • Elect curricula that promote children’s intellectual, social, emotional, and physical development according to children’s individual needs and age.
  • Choose effective communication strategies when interacting with children and families.
  • Select appropriate strategies to support and fulfil individual needs.
  • Identify and manage potential safety risks in early childhood settings, ensuring a safe and nurturing environment.
  • MODULE 1:
  • Assess and evaluate risks to children’s welfare and take appropriate actions to safeguard them.
  • Identify the signs and symptoms of abuse, neglect, and maltreatment in children, and understand the different types of abuse.
  • Develop the skill to make informed, timely decisions in situations involving potential safeguarding concerns, balancing the need for child protection with legal and procedural guidelines.
  • Evaluate the role of childcare educators in child protection and the ethical responsibilities involved in maintaining children’s safety and well-being.
  • Apply observation and reporting techniques to identify potential concerns regarding child development or safeguarding issues.
  • Promote inclusive practices and diversity in the childcare setting to ensure equal opportunities for all children, considering factors such as cultural, social, and economic backgrounds.
  • Understand the key stages of child development across physical, cognitive, emotional, and social domains from birth through adolescence.
  • Communicate clearly and sensitively with children, parents, colleagues, and external agencies, especially in situations involving safeguarding concerns.
  • Observing children’s behaviour and development, with accurate and timely documentation for safeguarding purposes.
  • Learn to accurately and professionally document observations and concerns about child development or safeguarding, ensuring confidentiality and adherence to legal and ethical standards.
  • Demonstrating teamwork skills when working with multi-disciplinary teams to address safeguarding and developmental issues.
  • Understanding and respecting diversity in the development and care of children, ensuring a non-discriminatory approach to safeguarding and protection.
  • Demonstrate knowledge of safeguarding frameworks, policies, and legislation relevant to child protection, both locally and internationally.
  • Develop the ability to observe and assess children’s physical, emotional, and cognitive development, identifying typical milestones and areas of concern.
  • Acquire the skills to communicate effectively with children, parents, colleagues, and other professionals, particularly in sensitive situations involving safeguarding or concerns about child well-being.
  • Remain calm and effective in crisis situations, including making appropriate referrals or interventions when necessary.
  • Build skills in identifying potential risks to children’s safety and well-being, and learn how to respond appropriately, including referring to safeguarding agencies when needed.
  • Adherence to professional ethics and guidelines surrounding confidentiality, trust, and respect for children’s rights and dignity.
  • Strengthen the ability to stay calm and act effectively in crisis situations, including managing immediate threats to children’s safety and taking appropriate actions.
  • MODULE 2:
  • Apply strategies to promote resilience, emotional regulation, and self-esteem in children.
  • Ensure to utilise positive reinforcement techniques to foster a supportive environment for children’s mental health.
  • Implement practices that encourage social and emotional learning, helping children develop self-awareness, self-management, social awareness, and relationship skills.
  • Communicate openly and effectively with children about their emotions and mental health in an age-appropriate and empathetic manner.
  • Implement practices ensuring a safe and non-judgmental space for children to express their feelings and concerns.
  • Teach children coping strategies for managing stress, anxiety, and other emotional challenges.
  • Understand the connection between mental health and safeguarding concerns, particularly in cases of abuse, neglect, and trauma.
  • Demonstrate knowledge of the key concepts related to children’s mental health, emotional wellbeing, and developmental stages.
  • Explain how mental health impacts a child’s overall development and learning, and how early intervention can promote positive outcomes.
  • Recognise the factors that influence children’s mental health, including biological, environmental, social, and cultural influences.
  • Identify the signs and symptoms of common mental health issues in children, such as anxiety, depression, ADHD, and trauma.
  • Recognise the early warning signs of mental health struggles in children and understand the importance of early intervention.
  • Demonstrate knowledge of relevant laws, policies, and frameworks related to child mental health and wellbeing (e.g., safeguarding laws, mental health guidelines).
  • Know how to respond appropriately if a child discloses mental health issues or trauma, ensuring the child’s safety and providing support.
  • Create a supportive, inclusive, and nurturing environment that fosters mental health and wellbeing.
  • Recognise the role of school or childcare settings in promoting mental health, including creating routines, providing structure, and offering opportunities for positive social interactions.
  • Develop programs and activities that support the mental health needs of all children, focusing on inclusivity and addressing individual needs.
  • Understand how to differentiate between typical developmental behaviours and potential mental health concerns.
  • Respect cultural diversity in approaches to mental health, recognizing how different cultural contexts influence children’s understanding.
  • Understand confidentiality and ethical considerations when supporting children’s mental health, including when to involve parents, guardians, or professionals.
  • Develop the ability to work with families and caregivers in supporting children’s mental health, offering guidance and resources as needed.
  • MODULE 3:
  • Identify and apply the legal and regulatory frameworks relating to child health, safety, and wellbeing in early years settings.
  • Ability to assess and manage risks in early years settings.
  • Understand the nutritional needs of children at various stages of development.
  • Promote good eating habits and hygiene practices among children in early years settings.
  • Identify common illnesses, infections, and conditions affecting young children, and learn how to manage and prevent their spread in group care settings.
  • Implement emergency procedures for various situations, including fire drills, first aid, and evacuations.
  • Knowledge of legal requirements and best practices for maintaining a safe and healthy environment for young children.
  • Recognise the role of risk assessment in promoting safety and preventing accidents in childcare environments.
  • Familiarity with policies on child protection and emergency procedures (e.g., first aid, fire safety).
  • Understanding the nutritional needs of children at different stages of development.
  • Awareness of food allergies, intolerances, and special dietary needs.
  • Knowledge of physical activities that promote motor skills and overall health in young children.
  • Understand the role of physical activity in early childhood development and promote appropriate movement and play opportunities.
  • Recognise the importance of emotional wellbeing and create a safe and supportive environment where children feel secure and valued.
  • Engage families in conversations about health, safety, and nutrition, respecting cultural differences and family practices.
  • Work with other professionals to address individual children’s needs.
  • MODULE 4:
  • Reflect critically on the barriers to inclusion and use inclusive strategies in daily practices.
  • Develop and implement tailored support strategies for children with diverse learning needs, including those with physical, emotional, or developmental challenges.
  • Use appropriate communication techniques and tools to foster inclusive interactions with children and families from diverse backgrounds.
  • Promote culturally responsive practices, encourage positive cultural representation, and challenge biases or stereotypes in the classroom.
  • Adapt resources, activities, and teaching methods to ensure all children, regardless of their needs or abilities, can access the curriculum.
  • Navigate the legal frameworks surrounding inclusion and accessibility, ensuring compliance with local and international regulations.
  • Modify classroom layouts, routines, and teaching practices to support accessibility and inclusivity.
  • Define inclusive education and explain its importance in promoting equity, diversity, and access for all children.
  • Understand different types of disabilities, neurodiversity, and developmental stages, and how they impact children’s learning and development.
  • Understand the role of family involvement in supporting diverse needs.
  • Understand the impact of cultural, social, and economic factors on child development and learning.
  • Understand the role of the physical and social environment in supporting inclusive learning, including strategies for sensory-friendly spaces and inclusive materials.
  • Recognise the importance of ongoing training, research, and collaboration in staying current with best practices for inclusive education.
  • Demonstrate an understanding of inclusive practice principles and how they apply to childcare settings.
  • Identify and support children with a wide range of learning needs, disabilities, and socio-cultural backgrounds.
  • Collaborate effectively with families, colleagues, and other professionals to meet the needs of children.
  • Foster an environment that is respectful of cultural diversity, gender, language, and identity.
  • Design and implement differentiated learning experiences that cater to a variety of learning styles and abilities.
  • Create an inclusive classroom environment that promotes participation, engagement, and a sense of belonging for all children.
  • Engage in reflective practice and continual professional development to improve inclusive teaching strategies.
  • MODULE 5:
  • Ability to engage in open, respectful, and empathetic communication with families and other professionals, ensuring mutual understanding and trust.
  • Ability to foster professional relationships while respecting the diversity and values of families and other professionals.
  • Competence in advocating for children’s needs within the family and professional context, ensuring their well-being and development are prioritized.
  • Understanding of the various family structures, cultural contexts, and socioeconomic backgrounds that influence child development and the need for individualized approaches to working with families.
  • Knowledge of frameworks and models for collaboration between educators, families, and other professionals.
  • Understanding of children’s rights, development stages, and how families and professionals can work together to support children’s physical, emotional, social, and cognitive growth.
  • Knowledge of legal and ethical considerations related to confidentiality and information-sharing when working with families and professionals.
  • Ability to communicate effectively with families and professionals, including listening actively, conveying ideas clearly, and negotiating solutions for the benefit of the child.
  • Developing skills to address challenges and conflicts that may arise between families, professionals, or the child, using mediation techniques and finding common ground.
  • Ability to document and manage information related to children’s needs, progress, and any collaborative efforts with families and professionals while maintaining confidentiality and accuracy.
  • Ability to engage in reflective practice, evaluating one’s own communication and approach in partnerships with families and professionals, and adapting based on feedback and outcomes.

Course Curriculum

Module 1. Child Development, Safeguarding and Protection (EQF/MQF Level 3, 6ECTS, 160 Total Learning hours)
This module focuses on understanding the key stages of child development, recognizing the signs of abuse or neglect, and learning how to ensure the safety and well-being of children in various care settings. It covers the physical, emotional, social, and cognitive milestones children go through, while also providing educators with the knowledge to create safe, supportive environments for all children. The module includes legal frameworks, safeguarding policies, and strategies for effective intervention, empowering educators to identify risks and respond appropriately to protect children.

  • Orientation
  • Child Development ages & stages
    00:00
  • Child development & Stages & Child Safeguarding & Child Protection Measures
    00:00
  • Safeguarding and assignment explanation
  • Child Development & Additional Needs
  • Module 1 assignment question
  • Plagiarism Report
  • Child development & Additional needs-MCQS

Module 2. Supporting Children’s Wellbeing and Mental Health (EQF/MQF Level 3, 6ECTS, 150 Total Learning hours)
This module focuses on promoting positive mental health and emotional wellbeing in children, recognising the impact of early experiences on lifelong mental health. It covers key strategies for supporting children’s emotional development, identifying signs of distress, and creating nurturing environments where children feel safe and valued. The module also addresses the importance of building resilience, coping mechanisms, and the role of educators in fostering self-esteem, confidence, and social skills. Through practical techniques and theoretical knowledge, it equips educators with the tools to support children’s mental health, intervene early, and collaborate with families and other professionals to ensure children’s holistic wellbeing.

Module 3. Health, Safety and Nutrition in Early Years Settings (EQF/MQF Level 3, 6ECTS, 150 Total Learning hours)
This module equips childcare educators with the knowledge and skills to create safe, healthy environments for young children. It covers key topics such as infection control, risk assessments, emergency procedures, and maintaining a physically safe space. The module also delves into the importance of proper nutrition, exploring balanced meal planning, dietary needs, and promoting healthy eating habits in young children. Additionally, it emphasises the role of educators in teaching children about personal hygiene, physical activity, and how to recognise and address health concerns. By integrating health, safety, and nutrition practices, educators are empowered to support the overall well-being of children in their care.

Module 4. Inclusive Practice and Supporting Diverse Needs (EQF/MQF Level 3, 6ECTS, 150 Total Learning hours)
This module focuses on creating inclusive environments that respect and support the diverse backgrounds, abilities, and needs of all children. It explores strategies for adapting teaching methods, activities, and resources to ensure every child, regardless of culture, language, ability, or socio-economic status, can participate fully in learning experiences. The module covers key concepts in equality, diversity, and inclusion, as well as how to recognize and address barriers to learning. Educators will learn how to build strong, respectful relationships with families, work with specialists when necessary, and develop individualised approaches to meet the varied needs of children. By fostering an inclusive setting, educators will be equipped to create supportive environments where all children can thrive and reach their full potential.

Module 5. Partnerships with Families and Other Professionals (EQF/MQF Level 3, 6ECTS, 150 Total Learning hours)
This module emphasises the importance of collaboration between educators, families, and external professionals to support children’s development and well-being. It covers effective communication strategies, building strong relationships with families, and understanding the roles of different professionals involved in childcare and education. The module explores how to engage families in their child’s learning journey, ensure their voices are heard, and work together to address any challenges. It also highlights the value of multidisciplinary teamwork, where educators collaborate with specialists to provide holistic support for children. By the end of the module, students will be equipped with the skills to foster positive, professional relationships that benefit both children and their families.

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  • St. Paul’s Institute is accredited by the Malta Further and Higher Education Authority (MFHEA) as a further education institution since 2024, holding Licence No. 2024-015.
  • This programme is accredited under the category of Further Education by MFHEA at MQF/EQF Level 3 and carrying 30ECTS.
  • Next Intake: Admissions are open throughout the year.
  • Address: 12, Triq l-Isptar Pieta and through digital channels.
  • Langue of Instruction: English
  • Duration of Programme: 8 months
  • Mode of Attendance: Part Time
  • Mode of Delivery: Blended Learning (10% face to face & 90% online)
  • Structure of the programme: All the modules are to be followed and taught according to their numerical order.
  • Pass Rates: TBA
  • Registration Method: Contact us on 77754444 or [email protected]
  • Link to Identity Malta Visa Requirements: https://www.identitymalta.com/unit/central-visaunit/

Requirements

  • Age Requirement: Need to be at least 17 years old when the program begins.
  • Police Conduct Record: Have to provide proof of a clean police conduct record to ensure the safety of children under their care.
  • Language Proficiency: Good English skills are essential. They should be comfortable communicating in English to engage effectively with course materials, teachers, and fellow students.
  • Identification Documents: Must have valid identification documents, like an ID card or passport, ready during the application process.
  • Digital Skills: Basic knowledge of using smartphones and computers is important.

Target Audience

  • The Award in Childcare and Early Education is designed to provide individuals with foundational knowledge and practical skills to work effectively with young children. The course focuses on essential areas such as child development, safeguarding, and early learning practices, ensuring that learners are equipped to meet the diverse needs of children in their care. It is an ideal entry-level qualification for those seeking to pursue a career in childcare, early years education, or related fields, and offers opportunities for further professional development through specialised or advanced courses. This course is designed to equip students with the essential skills, knowledge, and practical experience needed to pursue further studies at MQF Level 4 and embark on a career as a professional childcarer.