Education and Early Years

Our Education and Early Years courses prepare you to support children and young people in schools, nurseries and educational settings.

Programmes combine classroom-based study with practical insight, helping you understand child development, safeguarding, inclusive practice and effective support strategies. You'll explore how children learn, how to create positive learning environments and how to support wellbeing at different stages of development.

Courses are available at different levels, allowing you to begin your journey into education with confidence and progress towards more specialist roles over time. By nurturing others, you can also find your brilliance as a compassionate and capable education professional.

Most courses include placement experience in schools, nurseries or early years settings.

Placement allows you to apply your learning in real environments while building confidence, communication skills and professional conduct. Working directly with children and education professionals helps you understand the responsibilities of the role and develop the practical experience employers value.

You'll be supported throughout your placement to reflect on your progress and strengthen your practice.

Introductory pathways are available for those starting out, so you don't always need previous experience to begin.

Higher level qualifications may require relevant study or practical experience, with entry criteria clearly outlined in advance. If you're unsure which level is right for you, our team can guide you towards a starting point that matches your skills and ambitions.

Yes. Placement based courses typically require a DBS check to ensure safe and responsible practice in education and early years settings.

Clear guidance is provided during the application process so you understand what is involved and how to complete the check in time for your placement.

Progression routes include teaching assistant roles, early years practitioner positions and further training towards qualified teacher status.

Alongside your qualification, you will develop communication, patience, organisation and professionalism, all essential qualities for working with children and young people. Many learners continue into employment, apprenticeships or higher education as they take the next step towards a career in education.

Once you have chosen the right course, simply visit the relevant course page and follow the clear application or enquiry instructions provided.

Each listing outlines entry requirements, next steps and key dates so you can move forward with confidence. After submitting your application, you will receive confirmation and further guidance about what to expect next.

Our process is designed to be straightforward and supportive, ensuring you feel informed at every stage as you take your first step towards finding your brilliance at City of Portsmouth College.

Yes. Attending an Open Event is one of the best ways to explore our facilities, meet tutors and speak directly with current students.

Open Events give you a genuine feel for College life, allowing you to see workshops, studios and classrooms in action. You can ask questions about course content, enrichment opportunities and progression routes, helping you make a confident and well-informed decision about your future.

Visiting in person often brings your ambitions into sharper focus and helps you picture yourself thriving in your chosen subject area.

After submitting your application or enquiry, you will receive confirmation along with details about the next stage of the process.

Depending on the course, this may include an interview, informal discussion, assessment activity or enrolment guidance. These stages allow us to understand your interests, goals and suitability for the programme, while also giving you the opportunity to ask further questions.

Our aim is to ensure you feel fully prepared, supported and confident as you move closer to starting your course.