Careers in education and young people’s services are diverse, ranging from teaching (primary, secondary and SEN) and childcare (early years educator, childminder) to youth work, social care (social worker, family support), and specialised roles like art or music therapists, all focused on supporting learning, development, and well-being for all ages.
With a selection of courses available across a range of specialisms, our Education and Early Years courses will enable you to either begin or advance a career in supporting the diverse social, cultural, and educational needs of children and young people today.
Our courses are offered at all levels. The Level 1 qualifications are the perfect starting point for those who are brand new to the sector and looking to start a rewarding career. For those who want to learn while they earn and dive straight into work, we have a range of Level 2 and 3 apprenticeships and amazing employers that are always looking for caring individuals to join their practices.
We also offer two T Level pathways in Education and Early Years. Early Years Practitioner and Teaching Assistant. These courses are for anyone aged 16 – 19 and tie classroom and work placement learning into a qualification.
We also recently launched Level 2 and 3 childcare apprenticeships, which are perfect for those who want to learn while they earn. Providing invaluable professional experience, if you want to dive straight into work, an apprenticeship is the perfect option.
Many of our specialised courses for adult learners do not require students to attend college in person. This is to support students’ work and personal commitments and allow them to obtain a qualification without having to give up their time and work unnecessarily.
There is a wide range of qualifications and levels available, but not all of them may be right for you. If you’re not sure what qualification type or level you should be searching for, take a look at our qualifications explained.
I enjoy working with children and everyone says I am really good with them. The course has been a great experience and the tutors have been really supportive.
I chose Kirklees College because I’ve always wanted to work with children and this course really stood out to me. Whilst studying here, I’ve already completed a work placement at a nursery which I really enjoyed and it allowed me to find out what working in this field is really like. The teaching is great here, the teachers are always friendly and the learning environment is relaxed. Everyone gets on really well in class and I’m looking forward to completing the rest of my course.
I have a passion for Childcare and have enjoyed working with children on my placement. I have had brilliant support and my teachers are always helpful. I hope to go to university and become a primary school teacher.
When I completed my course at Kirklees College, I progressed to the Early Years Teacher Status at Huddersfield University. I am now a deputy manager in a pre-school and I am looking forward to taking the next step in my career, which is to become a tutor for other students. The college inspired me to continue my journey in education and now I would like to be a part of developing the Early Years workforce further.
