Early Years - Child Development & Care
At St Catherine’s College, the Early Years - Child Development and Care curriculum, equips students with the knowledge, skills, and values necessary to understand and contribute meaningfully to the care and development of children. Our mission is to prepare students to stand shoulder to shoulder with their peers locally, nationally, and globally, while embodying our Christian ethos of treating others as we would wish to be treated. The study of Child Development at Key Stage 4 is designed to:
- Foster a deep understanding of how young children live, grow, and develop in a modern society.
- Instil a sense of responsibility and respect for others, encouraging students to value diversity and act with integrity in their communities.
- Equip students with the practical and theoretical knowledge needed to make informed choices about further education and career pathways in child development and care.
Our curriculum is rooted in the NCFE Level 1 / 2 qualification, which provides a vocational approach to learning, blending coursework and examination units to:
- Bring the subject to life and inspire students to achieve their potential.
- Enhance learning by offering additional qualifications, such as British Sign Language (BSL), to broaden students’ skills and career opportunities.
- Provide opportunities for hands-on learning through optional work experience placements in childcare settings during Year 10, enriching students’ understanding of real-world applications.
Through this programme, students will:
- Develop a sound understanding of child development and well-being for children aged 0–5 years.
- Build transferable skills, including communication, organisation, and empathy, that are vital for success in both personal and professional contexts.
- Be inspired to explore a wide range of further education and career opportunities, including childcare, teaching, healthcare, and social work.
We are committed to ensuring that all students undertaking this course are well-prepared for the next steps in their chosen careers, empowered to compete with the very best, and equipped with the confidence and ambition to succeed. Our curriculum fosters independent, resilient learners who understand the critical role they can play in supporting and shaping the next generation.
Full details of the Early Years - Child Development and Care curriculum are provided below. For further information, please contact Mrs Newnham-Reeve, Head of PE and Early Years via snewnham@stcatherines.college