The NCFE CACHE Level 3 Award in Preparing to Work in Home‑Based Childcare is designed for learners who want to start a career in childcare within a home setting.
Developed by Ncfe CACHE in partnership with the Professional Association for Childcare and Early Years (PACEY), this qualification provides the essential knowledge needed to prepare for roles such as registered childminder, childminding assistant, nanny, or au pair.
Delivered through flexible online learning, the course gives learners a strong foundation in home‑based childcare and is ideal for those looking to enter the sector or progress towards further Early Years qualifications.
The NCFE CACHE Level 3 Award in Preparing to Work in Home‑Based Childcare provides learners with the essential knowledge needed to set up and prepare for working within a home‑based childcare setting, including becoming a registered childminder. It introduces key principles of childcare, safeguarding, health and safety, and working with families in a home environment.
This qualification is ideal for adult learners who want to work in home‑based childcare roles. It is particularly suitable for those preparing to work independently or support childcare provision within a family home.
To achieve the qualification, learners must complete 6 credits in total, made up of:
This flexible structure allows learners to tailor some of their learning to their interests and career aims.
This Award provides a strong foundation and introduction to Early Years Educator qualifications.
Learners should note that paediatric first aid is a requirement for childminder registration. Many learners choose to progress to the Level 3 Award in Paediatric First Aid alongside or after completing this qualification.
This qualification supports entry into roles such as:
603/3642/0
60 hours
50
Ncfe CACHE
Online
Learners must be 19 years of age or over and successfully complete an initial assessment before enrolling on the course.
Unit 1: Preparing to work as a home based childcarer (mandatory); Unit 2: Preparing to set up a home based childcare business (optional); Unit 3: Exploring the role of the Nanny (optional)
Internally assessed using a range of methods, including: a portfolio of evidence, written assignments, set tasks, professional discussions. All assessments are carried out in line with the NCFE CACHE assessment strategy.
This is a knowledge‑only qualification. Learners are not required to be working or placed in a childcare setting to complete it.
