Child Development

Studying child development will offer an engaging introduction to childcare courses. The level two course will provide an introduction to similar courses at level 3 and further education and give an insight into careers within childcare and health related professions.

All staff aim to foster enthusiasm in students by providing knowledge of roles within the health and social care sector and by preparing students for careers in related fields through visits and talks. Students will gain an insight into the challenges, excitement, considerations, and responsibilities surrounding a childs development and becoming a parent.

Through the course we encourage the students to have an open mind to different cultures, religions and sexuality and how this could impact the choices made at various stages of reproduction, birth and raising a child. We aim to create a safe and respectful environment for the students to listen whilst sharing their own experiences and celebrating diversity.

Our intention is to further develop students' knowledge of reproduction and contraception which they already have from science and PDT lessons and link this to the stages of antenatal care all the way through to the toddler years. Students will learn about the best conditions to help a child thrive both physically and emotionally.

Within the NEA coursework elements students will develop an understanding of the resources needed in a nursery and how to plan for a safe and stimulating environment, as well as nutrition appropriate for a young child and a balanced meal. Student will undertake practical tasks involves planning and preparing a two-course meal appropriate for a four-year-old and after researching and planning play activities they will observing a child playing. The benefits of play will be considered, how it affects the development of a child, then evaluation will be made in comparison to their developmental norms.

All staff are committed to supporting students though each stage of their NEA coursework, through teacher led lessons, time to work independently during lesson time and regular feedback. Students are shown how to conduct effective research, how to plan, different observational methods and how to evaluate, which are all transferable skills to other GCSE courses and skills required for further education. Exam structure is explicitly taught in preparation for the examination topic, alongside revision techniques. Homework is set regularly to support the learning competed in the classroom and to further develop students' knowledge and skills.

Curriculum Overview & Exam Information

Child Development - Examination Information

Curriculum Overview - Year 10

Curriculum Overview - Year 11

Learning & Careers

Child Development - Learning Journey