TQUK Level 3 Award in Preparing to Work in Home-Based Childcare (RQF)

This nationally recognised qualification is perfect for individuals who want to set up their own childminding business or work in a home-based childcare environment. The course covers a wide range of topics, including child development, health and safety, safeguarding, play and learning, and the responsibilities involved in running a childcare service from home.

Learners will also gain a solid understanding of the legal and regulatory requirements of working with children, as well as how to create a safe, nurturing, and stimulating environment that supports the learning and development of young children.

By completing this course, learners will be well-prepared to begin a professional career in home-based childcare, offering high-quality care and early years education in line with national standards and best practice.

This course is designed for anyone who wants to care for children in a home setting. This course is ideal for:

• Aspiring Childminders – If you want to register as a childminder with Ofsted or your local authority in England.
• Home-Based Nannies – If you care for children in their own homes and want to develop your professional skills.
• Au Pairs or Babysitters – If you're looking to build confidence and gain a recognised qualification.
• Parents and Carers – If you want to deepen your knowledge of child development, safety, and play.
• Those Starting a Childcare Business – If you're planning to run your own home-based childcare service.

• To enrol on the TQUK Level 3 Award in Preparing to Work in Home-Based Childcare (RQF), you’ll need to meet the following basic requirements:

   Age Requirement

• You must be 16 years or older to take the course.

•  English Skills

• You should have a good level of written and spoken English, as the course involves reading, writing assignments, and understanding key childcare legislation.

•  Interest in Childcare

• No previous childcare qualifications are needed, but you should have a genuine interest in working with children and supporting their development.

Unit 1: Preparing to Work as a Home-Based Child carer

This unit provides the knowledge and understanding you need to start a home-based childcare business. Topics include:

•  The role and responsibilities of a home-based child carer
•  Legislation and regulation relating to safeguarding, health and safety, and equality
•  Day-to-day routines and planning activities to support child development
•  Working in partnership with parents and carers
•  Nutrition and healthy eating for children
•  Managing a home-based childcare setting as a business

Unit 2: Principles of Safeguarding in a Home-Based Setting

This unit focuses on keeping children safe and understanding your safeguarding duties. It covers:

•  Recognising signs of abuse and neglect
•  Responding to disclosures or concerns about a child’s welfare
•  Knowing your safeguarding roles and responsibilities
•  Understanding how to report concerns in line with legislation
•  Creating a safe and supportive environment for children

 

 By the end of the course, you will:

• Understand how to run a safe, professional home-based childcare setting
• Be aware of your legal responsibilities and how to protect children
• Have the knowledge needed to register as a childminder (in England)
• Be ready to start working confidently with children and families

This qualification can lead to roles such as:

• Registered Childminder
• Nanny or Home-Based Child carer
• Childcare Assistant in a Home Setting

This course is a great first step towards a full career in childcare. You can go on to study:

• Level 3 Diploma in Children’s Learning and Development (Early Years Educator)
• Paediatric First Aid
• Safeguarding qualifications
• Business or leadership training if you want to grow your own childcare service

As part of your course, you will receive a 1-2-1 induction session with your tutor via Microsoft Teams. This session is designed to help you get started, set clear goals, and ensure you have the right support in place for a successful learning experience. 

What to Expect in Your Induction Session: 

• Individual Learning Plan (ILP) Creation – Your tutor will work with you to develop a personalised learning plan, outlining key milestones and ensuring your studies align with your goals.
• Target Setting – Together, you’ll set realistic and achievable targets to help you stay on track and motivated throughout your course. 
• Additional Support Needs – If you require any extra support or adjustments, this is the perfect opportunity to discuss your needs so we can tailor our support to you.

This course is assessed through written tasks, and there are no exams or observations required.

• You will complete a series of short written assignments or workbook-style tasks for each unit.
• These tasks ask you to show your understanding of key topics such as safeguarding, health and safety, child development, and managing a home-based setting.
• You’ll give examples, explain ideas in your own words, and reflect on how you would handle different childcare situations.
•  Your work will be marked by a qualified assessor.
•   They will check that your answers meet the required learning outcomes and assessment criteria for each unit
•   If anything is missing or needs improvement, you’ll be given clear, supportive feedback and a chance to resubmit your work.
•  Once you have met all criteria, your unit will be marked as Achieved.

As part of your course, you will receive unlimited email support from a dedicated course tutor throughout your tutor support period, which covers the full duration of your course. Our tutors are here to assist with any questions, provide guidance, and help you stay on track with your learning. 

If you require additional tutor support after your course end date, extra support can be purchased to ensure you continue receiving the help you need. 

For more information on extending your tutor support, please get in touch with us. We’re here to support you every step of the way!

Need Extra Support? Book a 1-2-1 Tutor Session!

If you’d like additional guidance, you can book a personalised 15-minute 1-2-1 tutor session via Microsoft Teams for just £20. Whether you need help understanding a topic, want feedback on your work, or have specific questions, our expert tutors are here to support you.

• Tailored to Your Needs – Get direct support on the areas you need help with.
• Flexible & Convenient – Sessions take place online via Teams at a time that suits you.
• Expert Guidance – Benefit from a tutor’s expertise to boost your confidence and understanding.

Make the Most of Your Session 

To ensure your tutor is fully prepared and you get the most out of your time, we ask that you send over details of what you’d like to discuss in advance. This helps us tailor the session to your needs and provide the best possible support.

Get the extra support you need to succeed – book your 1-2-1 session today!