VTF Early Learning & Childcare Academy

Looking to begin a career in childcare?

The Childcare Vocational Training teaches you about the main pillars of Early Learning and Childcare.

It's a practical course which helps you gain useful certificates. You'll also receive support to help you look for a job.

This training will focus on preparing participants to apply for these two roles: ELC Support Worker, ELC Practitioner.

Where: To be confirmed
When: To be confirmed
Costs: Free
Prerequisites: Available in Edinburgh.

Search our training page to find dates, new Academy start dates are added regularly.

Can't find any? Email Capital City Partnership to register your interest and we'll be in touch about future dates.

What you will learn - course modules

  • Introduction to working in Childcare – ie. SQA Certificate of Work Readiness units: Practical Workplace Skills; Dealing with Work Situations; Responsibilities of Employment, and preparation for working in childcare/social care and/or elements of NC in Early Education and Childcare at SCQF Level 6 and or 7 (RQF Level 3 and 4) and/or elements of SVQ Social Service (Children and Young People) at SCQF Level 6 and/or 7 (RQF level 3 and 4)
  • SSSC Codes of Practice
  • Infection Control & Hygiene (including Covid regulations, PPE and hand hygiene)
  • Food Hygiene Certificate (REHIS)
  • Emergency First Aid at Work
  • Autism Awareness (National Autistic Society)
  • Emergency First Aid (SQA accredited)
  • Child Protection &/or Understanding Trauma
  • Importance of Play
  • REHIS Allergy Awareness
  •  Environment sustainability and green skills awareness for and within the sector (i.e. carbon reduction, collaborative work and using renewable sources of energy)
  • REHIS Moving and Handling

Please note that modules might change based on employer needs and role requirements.

Support to help you find a job

You'll also get help with:

  • Job application help. Find your own strengths and abilities for your CV and cover letter. Learn how to research employers and focus on job descriptions when applying for jobs.
  • Spoken and written presentation skills. How to show skill, ability and personality in a CV, cover letter or interview. Provide assistance with presentation at interview.
  • Interview Focus (Int & Presentation Skills, Competency Based Interview Answers (STARR) format, Interview planning - hints and tips, Mock Interviews & Feedback.
  • Recap, support, and next steps after the training.

Soraya M

VTF Academy Review

"I loved this course, I learned a lot and would definitely recommend it to others"

""