CHILD DEVELOPMENT

Child Development

What is Child Development?

The Child Development course is an interesting, stimulating and practical course that aims to equip students with the skills they require for a career in childcare, nursing and other caring professions. The course focuses on the study of the physical, social, intellectual and emotional development of young children from conception to the age of five years. It encourages knowledge and understanding of pregnancy, the needs of young children, the roles and responsibilities of parents, and the social and environmental influences affecting family life.

What does Child Development involve?

The course is broken down into two areas of study:

• Unit 1: Parenthood, Pregnancy and the New born Baby – this area of the course is delivered in year 11 and focuses on the planning for becoming a parent and the development of the foetus in the womb. Topics include; contraception, ante-natal care, types of birth and caring for a new born baby including bottle feeding and breast feeding.
• Unit 2: The Development of the Child ( 0 – 5 years) – this area of the course is delivered in year 12 and focuses on the holistic development of the child, including; physical, intellectual, emotional, social and communication. Topics include; keeping a child safe, learning through play, bathing a baby, dietary needs of children and childcare options.

How is Child Development assessed?

• Unit 1: Parenthood, Pregnancy and the New born baby – One written external exam 1 hour 15 mins at the end of year 11. This is worth 30% of the GCSE.
• Unit 2: The Development of the Child (0 – 5 years) – One written external exam, 1 hour 15 mins at the end of year 12. This is worth 30% of the GCSE.
• Unit 3: Investigative task – One piece of Controlled Assessment completed during year 12 that is worth 40% of the GCSE.

What can I do after this course?

This course forms an ideal basis for further study in the caring profession. A large number of pupils have progressed from this course into both, Childcare or Health and Social Care Courses. In addition it forms a foundation for those seeking employment in a wide range of childcare settings.