There are few things more rewarding than watching a child blossom because of your actions. Whether you’re helping them to take their very first steps, watching them master their ABCs, or supporting them to tackle their fears, every development is a sign of a job well done.
You’ll have a lot of responsibility and you may find yourself with aching feet and hair full of glitter by the end of the day, but if you want job satisfaction, studying for a career working with children in nurseries and early years settings or as a primary school teacher could be just what you’re looking for.
And where better to embark on a successful, fulfilling career in childcare than at The Manchester College – the No.1 College in Greater Manchester for achievement*.
From September 2021, you’ll be able to choose to study for a T Level in Education and Childcare. This brand new two-year qualifications is worth the equivalent to three A Levels and will give you the opportunity to study programmes co-developed with industry partners and benefit from a 45 day industry placement and much more.
If you’d like to progress onto our T Level but don’t currently have the entry requirements then you’ll be able to do this by first choosing to study our Level 2 T Level Transition programme Education and Childcare . This programme will allow you to progress straight onto one of our T Level courses once you’ve finished, plus you’ll spend at least 15 days on an industry placement.
Alternatively, through our Centre of Excellence for Childhood Studies we offer childcare courses for all abilities - from Entry Level to Level 3 - to help you reach your ultimate goal in childcare.
By studying Childhood Studies with us, you’ll not just develop the knowledge and skills required for a successful career. You’ll also gain vital practical experience, whether it’s in a private childcare facility, a primary school or right here in one of our own nurseries.
Our Childhood Studies tutors have extensive experience, both out in the sector and of teaching students. They also have valuable links to employers, so can help you to gain a greater insight into different careers and to decide which path is right for you.
Emma Ward - Head of Department
Emma joined the College as a nursery officer in our on-site nurseries back in 1999. She then moved to the teaching side in 2004, and progressed into the management team six years ago. Emma also does a lot of charity work. She used to be the safeguarding co-ordinator for a charitable organisation, and has been a lead volunteer for a youth organisation for the last 21 years.
Angela Mahon - Department Team Leader
Angela joined the College six years ago as a tutor and First Aid Trainer for the Child Studies department and became Department Team Leader three years ago. Angela has a wealth of experience in early years settings across England, as both a practitioner and a manager.
Nicola Dillon - Tutor
Nicola started at the College in 2018. She has more than 20 years’ experience working in a range of different early years settings, educational establishments and out in local communities. Prior to becoming a tutor, Nicola was a children’s centre district lead, which saw her managing a number of centres, and working with families and children under five years old.
Our Childhood Studies courses are offered at campuses across Manchester in Harpurhey, Northenden and Openshaw - all of which are well served by public transport.
From September 2021, our Industry Excellence Academy for Childhood Studies will be based at our newly re-developed Openshaw campus, where you’ll learn in a state-of-the-art, fully-functioning teaching and training nursery space and baby room, providing you with all the practical experience you will need to succeed.
Primary and nursery education teaching professionals
Average salary: £40k
As the class size is small, my tutors are able to give me extra support. They encourage us to get our work in on time and ensure it is completed to a high standard by giving us advice on how to improve it. I would recommend The Manchester College, I’m so proud of what I have achieved here
I have gained confidence and identified my skills and best abilities. My tutors have helped me with so much, from my career research and assignments, to work placement support. They’ve helped us to see all the possibilities of what we can do when we leave.
In one of The Manchester College’s 19 Centres of Excellence you’ll develop the skills and gain the qualifications that you need to take the next steps towards your dream career.
In our unique Industry Excellence Academy you’ll benefit from a programme of study that has been co-developed, and is co-delivered, with one of our industry partners.
