The course consists of two mandatory units, child development and behaviour and holistic approaches to child health. It covers care and education of children up to the age of seven, including in domestic settings. It aims to give candidates specialist knowledge and understanding which they will be able to apply to a range of settings and to help them develop the ability to analyse and evaluate practice in early years settings.
According to the course specification, other benefits will include an insight into the wide range of factors which might impact upon a child's health, development and behaviour. Candidates will also gain an awareness of the role and range of professionals and agencies contributing to the development and health of children under seven and of the impact of cultural diversity.
They will study theories on a range of aspects of children's development: physical, emotional, personal and social, cognitive and linguistic.
However, although it is recognised that candidates will benefit from opportunities to meet and interact with children and observe the work of professionals, there will be no mandatory assessed work placements as the emphasis is on developing theory and understanding.
SQA qualifications manager Anne Boyd commented, 'The introduction of the Higher in Early Years Care and Education gives candidates the opportunity to gain skills and knowledge of early years care and education at an early stage. Highers carry national and international recognition and count towards access to university. This Higher will open up opportunities for progression to further study and skills development.'
