SGS College are pleased to share details of their new courses launching in September 2026 in response to demand for more lower-level progressions pathways for 16-18 year olds.

If you enjoy working with young children and want to make a difference in their early development, this course is a great first step. You’ll develop the knowledge and practical skills needed to support babies and young children from birth to 7 years, with a strong focus on ages 0–5.

About the course

This course prepares you for a rewarding career in childcare and gives you the confidence to progress into further study or employment.

Course content

You’ll explore a wide range of topics designed to help you understand and support children’s growth and development, including:

  • Child development and learning from birth to 7 years
  • Safeguarding and child protection
  • Health, safety and well-being in early years settings
  • Supporting play, learning and development
  • Working effectively with children, families and colleagues

Practical skills are a big part of this course, and you’ll have the chance to apply what you learn during your placement in an Early Years setting.

Maths & English

As part of our committment to providing opportunties for learners to continue to develop and practice both their literacy and numeracy skills, oppportunities to use different skills and techniques in both English and maths will be provided in sessions.

Learners will also resit their GCSE Maths within this study programme, and English skills will be embedded throughout the Transition learning outcomes.

What do I need to join

To join the course, you will need five GCSEs at grade 3 or above, including Maths and English. At least one of maths or English must be at grade 4.

You will also need to provide a reference from an Early Years setting confirming your suitability and potential to work with children.

In addition, you will be required to complete an enhanced DBS check. The college will send you a link with instructions on how to apply.

 

About the course

If you want to build practical digital skills and gain confidence using technology, this Level 1 Introductory IT programme is the perfect starting point. It gives you hands-on experience with digital devices and software while helping you develop personal, social, and IT-specific skills to progress into further study or employment.

Course content

You’ll learn through practical tasks that give you real experience with IT in action. Throughout the course, you will:

  • Complete core units such as Being Organised, Developing a Personal Progression Plan, Working with Others, and Researching a Topic
  • Explore IT sector units, including using digital devices, working with basic software tools, creating simple digital products, and understanding safe and effective digital practices
  • Develop transferable skills such as communication, problem-solving, and teamwork through applied digital tasks

Learning is hands-on and designed to prepare you for real-world IT scenarios, while also supporting your personal and study skills development.

What do I need to join?
There are no formal prior qualifications required for the Level 1 Introductory. You should be willing to engage in practical activities, follow written and verbal instructions, and work towards English and maths (GCSE or Functional Skills) as part of your study programme if you have not yet achieved grade 4/C.
What can I do next?
Progression may include Level 2 IT or Digital Media qualifications, apprenticeships, or other vocational pathways. The skills gained support routes into broader digital and IT sectors.
 Additional information
We aim to provide you with the skills required to be able to progress into further study and training or employment upon completion of your programme of study. Key attributes required by employers are that individuals be enthusiastic, motivated, presentable (in some instances in company uniform), organised, articulate, able to think 'outside the box', business-like and enterprising, and that they have a 'can-do' attitude. We work on all these areas throughout the duration of your programme of study, and your tutor(s) will provide feedback on progress made, as well as areas for development.

Valuing Careers

  • Individuals: Career development can support individuals throughout their education and career; facilitating positive transitions, building career management skills and fostering career wellbeing.
  • The economy: Career development can support the economy by improving the efficiency of the labour market and promoting effective skills/knowledge development. 
  • Society: Career development can benefit society by promoting social justice and equity in education and work for all members of the community.

do you need advice

Please do not hesitate to contact me if you would like to arrange a careers interview or require further information. Mrs S Beeton, Head of Careers sbeeton@sphs.uk.com