University of the Highlands and Islands campus

Health Sciences

HNC Childhood Practice at University of the Highlands and Islands

University of the Highlands and Islands, United Kingdom

Programme overview

A one-year HNC designed with the early learning and childcare sector, combining child development and extensive work-based learning. Successful completion enables registration with the Scottish Social Services Council at Practitioner level.

Duration: Full-time: 1 year  |  Intake: September  |  Study mode: full-time  |  Location: Inverness, Scotland, United Kingdom

What you will study

Modules cover Additional support needs: positive support strategies for children and young people, Developing reflective practice, Health, safeguarding, wellbeing and rights, Outdoor learning and sustainability, Pedagogy in practice, and a placement of two days a week.

Career pathways

Qualified to work as an Early Learning and Childcare Practitioner; from September 2027 progression to year 2 of degrees such as BA (Hons) Childhood Practice or BA (Hons) Child and Youth Studies.

Official programme page

Application information

Entry requirements

2 Scottish Highers at grade C or above, or 1 A level at grade D or above (preferably including English), plus 4 National 5s or Standard Grades at Credit level, one of which should be English if no Higher or A level is held; or NC Early Education and Childcare/Childhood Practice or equivalent, or a Foundation Apprenticeship Social Services (Children and Young People). Experience in a relevant setting (including voluntary work or informal caring) is essential. Applicants without standard entry requirements are considered individually. Category 1 PVG course: PVG Scheme membership is required.

Domestic applicants: GBP 1,285 a year (2026/27). Scotland-domiciled, full-time per year. Source

Intake: September

Duration: Full-time: 1 year

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