Thank you for applying to join our Early Years Course at NKC Dartford College. We are really looking forward to meeting you.
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
Each of our courses has specific entry requirements, these can be found on our website page Early Years Courses in Kent – Enrol & Start Learning
Level 1 Early Years – GCSE Grade 2 in English Language and GCSE Grade 1 in Maths or Level 1 Functional Skills in English and Maths
Level 2 Early Years - 4 GCSEs at Grade 3 or above including English and Maths
Level 3 T Level in Education and Childcare - 5 GCSEs at Grade 4 and above (Including Grade 4 or above in Maths & English.
SCHOOL REPORT & GRADE SHEET
At interview we require a copy of your most recent school or college report (for applicants aged under 19 years) and a predicted grade sheet. This information is required as part of the admissions process. If you are unable to provide it before your interview, please contact Admissions for advice.
WHAT WILL HAPPEN ON THE DAY?
You will be given a presentation about the course and what to expect from the Early Years team.
You will then have a face-to-face interview with a member of the Early Years team who will give you an overview of all Early Years courses. You will be expected to demonstrate a passion and interest in working with children. The lecturer will ask you questions about your career aspirations, qualities you have, any experiences you have had with children. At interview you will have the opportunity to look around the department and ask any questions you may have.
WHAT SHOULD YOU BRING?
- a copy of your most recent school or college report (for applicants aged under 19 years). If you have been issued a predicted grade sheet, then please also bring this.
- If you have already completed a qualification, please bring confirmation of grade with you.
- You may bring a parent/carer with you, but we ask that this is limited to one person.
TASTER DAY AND NEXT STEPS
- You will be required to attend one compulsory taster session, prior to enrolment. The taster session is a fantastic opportunity to experience lessons and learn techniques within our department, a chance to meet the team and importantly, for the team to get to know you. Details of your allocated taster days will be provided. You will be required to prepare notes for small group discussion on the following topic – What do you consider to be five key skills that an Early Years Practitioner needs to work with children? Please bring your notes to the taster session.
- Successful completion of the taster session
During the taster session, applicants will be expected to:
- participate positively in the activities and group discussion
- demonstrate an interest in Early Years and working with children
- communicate appropriately with staff and other applicants
- listen to and follow instructions
- engage with the tasks and make a genuine attempt to complete them
- Demonstrate appropriate professional and respectful behaviour.
- All conditional offers are subject to meeting the relevant entry requirements, providing the required school information, demonstrating an appropriate interest in Early Years and successfully completing the compulsory taster session.
MORE INFORMATION ABOUT OUR EARLY YEARS COURSES
- Learners must always maintain a professional appearance.
- Learners must always wear their uniform, which includes Blue Early Years Polo shirt, black Early Years jumper or fleece, black trousers only and black trainers/shoes.
- Footwear must be flat black shoes or black trainers with no coloured detail. Trainers are permitted only if they are black. Other types of footwear, such as casual or brightly coloured shoes, are not acceptable, this includes Uggs and Crocs.
- Nails must be natural, no longer than fingertip length and free from nail varnish, gel, BIAB, acrylic or other nail enhancements.
- No false eyelashes.
- Hair must be tied up during all practical elements of the course.
- Learners must always wear their lanyard and uniform whilst on site.
- Uniforms must be purchased and worn from the first week in October. Whilst learners are waiting for uniform to arrive learners are required to wear a black T-shirt, black trousers, and black trainers until their uniform is available.
- Learners are expected to meet the uniform requirements from the start of the course, where these requirements are not met, this will be addressed with the learner in line with college and course expectations.
PROFESSIONAL CONDUCT
Learners must always act in a professional manner and reflect the core values expected of Early Years professionals.
- Learners must be able to communicate clearly and effectively.
- Learners are expected to demonstrate professional, respectful and appropriate behaviour in college and whilst undertaking placement.
AND FINALLY…
“The Early Years team are passionate about the learning, play and care of young children, and we hope you are too! We look forward to meeting you and discussing your passion for Early Years.”
If you have any queries or questions, please do not hesitate to contact me.
Nadja Nsajja - Head of Curriculum Early Years
01322 629 400
