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The Coram Pacey Level 3 Award in Preparing to Work in Home-Based Childcare is CACHE-accredited and Ofsted-recognised, and designed to help learners develop and build the skills they need to become a home-based childcare worker, childminder, childminding assistant or nanny. If you are aged over 16 and are an aspiring childminder or nanny looking to take the first step into childcare, or if you have some experience and are looking to set up your own home-based business, this course is for you.
This course typically runs over four to 12 weeks, although it is possible to complete your learning sooner. Delivered completely online so learners can complete their learning alongside any personal or work commitments, no placement in a real work environment is required.
The Coram Pacey Level 3 Award in Preparing to Work in Home-Based Childcare has two potential routes for learners to choose from, depending on their aspirations: the Childminder Route and the Nanny Route. Regardless of the route chosen, there is a mandatory unit which helps learners to develop the knowledge and implement skills needed to work effectively with children in a home-based childcare role. Learners will cover topics including legislation and regulation, safeguarding and child protection, health and safety and day to day care routines for children.
If you are interested in starting a childcare business from your home, the Childminder Route is right for you. Alongside the mandatory unit, you will study the Exploring the Role of a Childminder module which is solely focused around setting up a childcare business. Learners will learn how to create a business plan, explore how to set up as self-employed, understand financial and taxation obligations and registration requirements.
Or, if you are considering caring for children in their own home, the Nanny Route is better suited to your goals. Learners will complete the mandatory module before studying the Exploring the Role of a Nanny module, covering the daily duties of a Nanny, reviewing partnership working, understanding advisory, guidance and support services for nannies and understanding employment contracts with parents and carers.
Upon completion of this course, learners will be skilled to work in roles including registered childminders, childminding assistants, nannies, au pairs and other childcare professionals in home-based settings.
This course costs £294 including VAT, and as part of this, learners will also receive a full three-month Coram Pacey membership which comes with additional benefits.
Membership benefits
Frequently Asked Questions
The Coram Pacey level 3 award in preparing to work in home-based childcare is a CACHE-accredited, Ofsted-recognised Level 3 qualification designed to prepare you for working in home-based childcare. Whether you want to become a childminder, nanny, or childcare assistant, the course builds your knowledge of caring for children and running a home-based childcare setting, including setting up your own business or looking after a child in their home.
If you are looking to start or progress a career in home-based childcare, this course is a great fit. It is ideal for aspiring childminders, nannies, or anyone wanting to build skills in this area. Employers may also find it valuable for staff development in early years and childcare roles.
This is a knowledge-only qualification; therefore, no placement in a real work environment is required, and you do not need to be employed to enrol on this course.
You will cover essential topics such as safeguarding, health and safety, child development, and working in partnership with families. You will also choose a pathway – childminder or nanny – focusing on either setting up a childcare business or understanding the role and responsibilities of working in a family home.
You will have access to 24/7 pre-recorded teaching to support all areas of your learning and work plans, along with embedded links for independent research. You will also be able to book 1:1 support sessions with your development coach throughout the programme. In addition, your PACEY membership provides further support, resources and CPD opportunities to enhance your professional development.
No prior experience is required. This is a knowledge-based qualification, so you don’t need to be working in childcare or complete a placement. It is designed to support both beginners and those already working in the sector who want to formalise their knowledge.
The course typically takes between four to 12 weeks to complete, depending on your pace and availability. As it is fully online, you can study flexibly and fit learning around your work or personal commitments.
The course costs £294 including VAT. This includes full access to the programme, support from a Development Coach, and a 3-month Coram PACEY membership, along with additional benefits and discounts on related training.
To continue the course, you have the option of paying £25.00 per week for each week thereafter, up to a maximum of three months.
Certificates are received within 8 weeks and will be sent electronically
No, this is a permanent qualification.
Unfortunately, we are unable to provide refunds.
If you need to stop or pause your course due to a personal or work circumstance, you can pause this up to 4 weeks without incurring any further fees.
