Log in:

Staff

Students

How to Apply
Contact
Main Menu
Back to Subject Areas

Education & Early Years

A career in Children’s and Young People’s Services is one of the UK’s fastest growing sectors and offers a huge choice of options for specialism at many levels, from childcare, nurseries, education, youth work and charity work. This is an excellent time to consider working with children and young people.

Early Years Students Nurturing Animatronic Baby and Smiling
Play Video about Early Years Students Nurturing Animatronic Baby and Smiling

Interested in working with children and young people? With a selection of both college and adult courses available, across a range of specialisms, our Children and Families courses will allow you to either begin or advance a career in helping support the diverse social, cultural and educational needs of children and young people today.

Our courses are offered at all levels, from Level 1 through to Level 5 Level 1 qualifications are the perfect starting point for those who are brand new to the sector.

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. 

View Education & Early Years Courses

College 16-18

College 16-18 (9)

View courses
College Apprenticeships

Apprenticeships (4)

View courses
College Adult Education

Adult Learners 19+ (6)

View courses

Prospectus & Course Guides for 2023/24

College 16-18
Apprenticeships
HE & Higher Skills
Adult Courses

Why work in the Health, Social & Child Care Industry?

Employment in Health, Social and Child Care Services roles are down NAN% since 2021

Wide range of jobs in the Health, Social & Child Care Industry

A wide range of employers in the Health, Social & Child Care Industry

Considering a career in Health, Social & Child Care?​

If you’re not sure what to study, then why not take some time to find out more information about possible careers?

Or, if you already have a career in mind, but you’re not sure what you need to study to pursue that career, we can help you get one step closer to that dream job.

View all Careers

Qualifications & levels explained

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.
Qualifications Explained

Find the perfect career

We can help you find that perfect career even if you’re not sure what it is yet! At Kirklees College, our mission is to make you as successful as you can be, from finding the right career to gaining the right skills.
Careers & Employment

Case Studies

Shamima

Studying Childcare Level 3

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.

Jessica

Studying Childcare Level 3

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.

Safa

Studying Childcare Level 3

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.

Laura

Studied HND Early Childhood Education and Care

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.