Child Development

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Intent

Students who study Child Development at Oulton Academy will be given the opportunity to gain an understanding and apply the fundamental principles and concepts of Child Development. By studying Child Development it will enable students to develop empathy and understanding of the needs of others, they will recognise that every child is different and that every child matters. Students will develop the skills and qualities needed to work within the childcare sector.

Objectives

  • to explore a wide variety of topics and contexts applicable to the childcare sector
  • to be academically challenged through the broad curriculum, face real life contexts and to debate sensitive topics
  • to enable all students to enjoy learning and experience success.
  • to take into account individual needs
  • to create a culture of high expectation and aspiration to raise standards of attainment and progress
  • to develop confident and responsible individuals who can make a positive contribution to society and live safely and independently
  • to enable students to be effective in their chosen career and to understand the importance of academy values in their everyday life.

Implementation

At KS4 students will learn from a range of topics and can learn from their own life experience as well as that of others. They will be taught the importance of effective communication skills not only in working with children but also their families and other professionals. Students will learn that not all children develop at the same pace and that support is required for some.  Because of this they will learn the importance of sensitivity, empathy and compassion for others. Providing real life scenarios is essential for students for them to become positive role models and show the academy values.

The course will require students to develop their research skills, communication skills, time management, oracy and presentation skills. They will show resilience when meeting deadlines, collaboration in teamwork tasks and will need to be able to become independent thinkers and workers.

Further Information

If you require more detailed information, please email the Head of Department Mrs L Field:

Child Development

What will I study?

Exam unit: R057 Health and well-being for child development  

Topics include:  

  • pre-conception health and reproduction  
  • antenatal care and preparation for birth   
  • postnatal checks, postnatal care and the conditions for development   
  • childhood illnesses and a child safe environment.   

Non – exam unit: R058 Create a safe environment and understand the nutritional needs of children from birth to five years  

Topics include:  

  • creating a safe environment in a childcare setting  
  • choosing suitable equipment for a childcare setting  
  • nutritional needs of children from birth to five years.  

Non – exam unit: R059 Understand the development of a child from one to five years  

Topics include:  

  • physical, intellectual and social developmental norms from one to five years   
  • stages and types of play and how play benefits development  
  • observe the development of a child aged one to five years   
  • plan and evaluate play activities for a child aged one to five years for a chosen area of development.  

What skills will I develop?  

Knowledge, understanding and practical skills that would be used in the Childcare sector including independence, resilience, research and communication skills.  

Career Paths

  • Nursery Nurse
  • Early Years Teacher
  • Family Support Worker
  • Nursery Manager
  • Children’s Nurse
  • Social Worker