There are no definitive answers to these questions as we recognise that everyone is different and has different needs, The answers below are only related to the Childcare courses in the Dorset area, if you wish to know more about courses in Wiltshire or in Management, it is advisable to contact the regional manager in your area
Child Care
1. Which course would be relevant to me?
Answer: This depends on your age, job role and experience. If you are under 18 years of age you can only undertake a level 2 qualification. If you are new to childcare and have little or no experience in working with children you would also be best starting with level 2. It is quite a practical qualification and would help you build the skills and knowledge that you will need to work with children. This is also suitable for assistants in preschool with no supervisory responsibilities.
If you lead sessions, are a key worker and take responsibility for planning and assessment of children then level 3 would be better.
2. How long will it take?
Answer: This is very individual and will depend on what evidence you can generate from your job role to meet the standards, Each person completes their Qualifications at their own pace and in their own time and with their own commitment to the assessment process. Your Assessor will see you regularly but the speed with which you complete written work will affect your progress. There really isn't any way of saying but the level 2 takes between 6 to 9 months; level 3 takes between 12 to 18 months.
3. Will I be able to get help with the course cost?
Answer: Yes there is funding available if you are between 17 and 24 years of age, then the Apprentice scheme may be for you. Access to other funding routes is available depending on your circumstances and employment status (see funding page for more details)
4. Will I always have the same assessor?
Answer: It is Company policy to allocate a single assessor to each candidate for the duration of the assessment process and, as long as that Assessor is still with us, they will work with you; consistency is the key to successfully achieving the Qualifications.
However, if you are unhappy with your assessor we can arrange to change. There may be times where other specialists will be required for training and assessment of specific criteria.
All of our assessors are friendly and will support you throughout the assessment process so no need to worry.
5. What happens if I cannot complete the course?
Answer: Obviously we would like you to complete the full award and it is vital to keep your assessor informed if you are likely to move house or job. Wherever possible we would endeavour to complete whole units so that you can be certificated for something. On some occasions it may mean that the qualifications could be put on hold until you did have time to complete.
There have been occasions when funding could be transferred from one funding body to another so that you could complete your Qualifications elsewhere. Wherever possible, if we know that you are moving away we aim to complete as many units as possible and certificate those.
The way we work at Wessex means that very few people do not achieve their qualification. As we work flexibly you are able to take a break in the middle of your training if you need to. If however, you do not finish the whole qualification you can be certificated for the units that you have completed.
6. how often will I be assessed?
Answer: The frequency of assessments will be agreed between you and your assessor. However, you can expect your assessor to visit you at least once a month in your place of work, often more frequently.
7. what is my next step?
Answer: The next step is to contact the person responsible for Assessment in your area either by telephone fax or e-mail. We will answer any questions that you may have and discuss which programme is the right one for you and send out a Registration Pack to get the process started..
