Introduction to childcare pilot project with schools.
Our new pilot scheme to promote working in early years and childcare as a rewarding and viable career choice for young people is now underway.
Cwmbran High School has become the first school in Wales to take part in a pilot project to offer a childcare course to pupils at secondary school.
The school hosted three one-hour lessons this week for 90 pupils from years nine, 10 and 11, who are studying for a Health and Social Care GCSE.
As part of our Introduction to childcare course, pupils covered topics such as child development, health, and safety, and play and learning activities for children.
The pilot scheme aims to encourage pupils to consider enrolling on the Children’s Care, Play, Learning and Development (CCPLD) course in college, which can lead to a qualification as a childminder or a nursery practitioner.
The independent review of childminding in Wales found there is a need to increase the number of childminders in the sector, as well as to support those already operating to accommodate more childcare places.
The review also highlighted the benefits of pursuing a career in childminding, such as the opportunity to be self-employed, work from home and to work flexibly.
Alyssa Hart, year 11 pupil who is looking to study Childcare at Torfaen Learning Zone, said: “I really enjoyed the lessons and learned a lot about what childminders do and how they help children grow and learn. I think it would be a great job for me because I love children and I want to make a positive difference in their lives.”
Evie Parry, year 11 pupil, said: “The lessons were fun and interactive and gave me a better understanding of the skills and knowledge needed to work in childcare. I think it’s a good option for me because I can work from home and be flexible with my hours.”
Six schools in Wales are involved in the pilot scheme, but Cwmbran High School is the first to trial it. Online sessions will also be available and train the trainer courses aimed at teachers and education professionals in the school setting will also be offered.
Headteacher at Cwmbran High School, Matthew Sims, said: “We are delighted to be part of this pilot scheme and to offer our pupils the opportunity to explore childcare as a career option. We believe that childminding is a valuable and rewarding profession that can benefit both the children and the community. We hope that this pilot scheme will inspire more to consider childminding as a career path and to pursue further education and training in this field.”
Careers Wales will be leading this new initiative and will continue to facilitate the links between careers and curriculum.
Georgia Hadley, Business Engagement Advisor at Careers Wales, said:
“The sessions delivered by Social Care Wales has enhanced the Health & Social Care subject at Cwmbran High School whilst inspiring and motivating students to think about future career opportunities within the sector.
“We are delighted to have facilitated this partnership and continue to work with Cwmbran High School and local employers to link careers to the curriculum.”
