Is there anything else to pay for?
There are no hidden costs – you will pay only what you are asked when you select your course. This covers the registration fee to BTEC and all the materials and assessment. It also covers your certificate when you have achieved the qualification.
Are there any exams on the course?
No. Each unit will be assessed by one assignment. If you meet the learning outcomes you will achieve the unit. On some distance courses you will need to travel to a test centre.
Will I have to buy lots of books?
Every unit has a list of suggested reading; these are books, journals and magazines that contain information that will be useful for completing the unit. You will not be expected to buy all of these; a few general childcare and development books will usually be sufficient.
What qualifications do I need before I start this course?
Many people who do not have any qualifications are able to achieve this type of qualification; the commitment to learn is more important than what you have already got. If you are a parent, or have spent time working with children, this experience will also be useful in your studies.
Which is the highest level course?
The Award, Certificate and Diploma are all the same level; the work involved is the same as GCSE. The difference is in the amount of time (learning hours) you complete. The Award needs 60 hours and the Certificate 120 hours; this means that the Certificate is worth double the Award. In the same way the Diploma requires another 100 hours to complete.
Can I start the Award and then change to the Certificate?
Yes. If you decide to ‘add on’ before you complete the diploma you will pay a ‘top-up’ fee to do so. If you have completed the Award and want to do more you will re-register for the Certificate of Diploma. The fee will be reduced and the units you have already achieved will be carried over towards the new qualification.
Will I have to complete the units in the right order?
No. You may choose which unit to start with, and you then complete the others as you wish. Because you are working at your own pace you do not have to wait for others to complete before you send your assignment.
Do I need to be working with children to complete the course?
No. If you are working with children regularly, or are able to plan time in a nursery you can choose any units from the course. There are enough units available to allow you to complete the course without needing to be with children. |