Level 4 Certificate in Neuroscience in Early Years

Program Overview

The Level 4 Certificate in Neuroscience in Early Years is a qualification specifically tailored for practitioners working with children from birth to seven years old. Delivered online, the program provides an accessible and convenient way for those seeking advancement within the Early Years sector to enhance their knowledge and skills.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

The Level 4 Certificate in Neuroscience in Early Years is an OFQUAL-recognized qualification designed to provide a comprehensive understanding of brain development in the early years (birth to seven years). It explores the impact of adverse childhood experiences (ACEs), contemporary theories of brain development, and the implementation of neuroscience-informed changes in practice. The program aims to improve practitioners' knowledge of early brain development, supporting their advancement within the Early Years sector and enabling progression to further study. Specific aims include focusing on the study of neuroscience in early years; understanding neurons, synaptogenesis, and social brain development; offering breadth and depth of study incorporating a key core of knowledge; understanding self-regulation and factors affecting its development; understanding types of stress and ACEs; developing practical skills for working with children from birth to seven years; distinguishing between behaviourist and relational approaches to behaviour management; providing knowledge for those seeking employment in the Early Years sector; and developing employability skills. Learners are required to be in employment or a work placement to complete the learning.

Outline:

The Level 4 Certificate in Neuroscience in Early Years requires completion of four mandatory units:

Understand neuroscience as part of effective early years practice:

This unit covers the foundational knowledge of neuroscience relevant to early childhood education.

Understand adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) and their impact on children’s stress response system:

This unit focuses on the effects of traumatic experiences on a child's developing brain and stress response.

Contemporary thinking and research from the neurosciences about child development from birth to seven years:

This unit explores current research and theories in neuroscience related to child development during this crucial period.

Implementing neuroscience-informed change through practitioner-led enquiry:

This unit focuses on applying neuroscience knowledge to practical situations and conducting practitioner-led research. The course is delivered via a Virtual Learning Environment (VLE) providing access to case studies, learning materials, activities, presentations, and web links. Online tutor support and guidance are provided throughout the course, allowing learners to interact with tutors, receive feedback, and submit work electronically. The online format allows for flexible learning anytime, anywhere.

Assessment:

All units are internally assessed using a range of methods. Knowledge-based outcomes can be assessed using non-mandatory assessment tasks. Skills-based outcomes must be achieved with reference to a real work environment and must include direct observation within the workplace.

Teaching:

The course is delivered online via a Virtual Learning Environment (VLE). Online tutor support and guidance are provided throughout the course. Learners can interact with tutors, receive feedback on their progress, and submit their work electronically.

Careers:

This qualification doesn't lead to a specific job role. However, when combined with Level 3/4 Early Years Educator qualifications, it provides learners with a comprehensive package that allows for further progression within the Early Years sector.

Other:

The course duration is 6 months, requiring a minimum student study commitment of 5-6 hours per week. Upon successful completion, students receive a Level 4 Certificate in Neuroscience in Early Years awarded by NCFE CACHE. To achieve the certificate, learners must successfully complete all four mandatory units. Entry requirements include being at least 18 years old and holding a full Level 3 early years/childcare qualification, along with an appropriate level of English language skill. The total course fee is £450.00. Customised monthly payment plans are available. There are 273 students currently enrolled.