- 603/2477/6
NCFE CACHE Level 1 Award in Preparing to Work in Schools
- June 1, 2026
- June 12, 2026
- Online
The NCFE CACHE Level 1 Award in Preparing to Work in Schools is an introductory qualification designed for learners who are considering a career in education. It provides a clear understanding of how schools operate and the key skills needed to support children and young people in a school setting.
This course is ideal for those taking their first step into education, helping build confidence and develop the foundation knowledge needed to progress into teaching assistant or support roles.
This qualification is particularly suitable for:
Ready to get started?
If you’re thinking about working in a school and want to build your confidence and knowledge, this course is the perfect place to start.
👉 Enquire now to find out more about start dates, funding options, and how to enrol.
NCFE CACHE Level 1 Award in Preparing to Work in Schools
This programme offers a gentle introduction to the school environment, making it perfect for learners with little or no previous experience in education. It focuses on developing essential knowledge about how schools work and how to support children effectively.
Learners will explore key topics such as supporting children’s wellbeing, understanding child development, and communicating effectively within a school setting. The course uses practical, real‑life examples to help learners understand what working in a school involves.
By the end of the course, learners will feel more confident in their understanding of school environments and be better prepared to progress into further study or volunteering opportunities.
The qualification develops knowledge in three key areas:
These areas provide essential insight into how schools operate and how to support learners in a safe and positive environment.
This course is suitable for a wide range of learners, including:
It is designed as a first step into the education sector.
This qualification is delivered over 2 weeks, with learners attending online sessions Monday to Friday.
The short, focused delivery allows learners to quickly build their knowledge and understanding of working in a school environment, while benefiting from structured tutor support throughout the programme.
While the taught sessions take place over this period, some learners may require additional time to complete their portfolio of evidence and final assessments, depending on their individual pace and commitments. Tutor support continues throughout to help learners successfully complete the course.
This qualification is accredited by NCFE CACHE, one of the UK’s leading awarding organisations for education and childcare qualifications.
NCFE CACHE qualifications are:
For learners living in Slough, Windsor and Maidenhead, this qualification is fully funded through the Local Value Partnership (LVP), subject to eligibility criteria.
To be eligible for this funded course, learners must:
Learners cannot enrol if they:
📞 Contact our team to check eligibility and secure your place.
If you do not meet the eligibility criteria or are not referred through the Jobcentre, you may still be able to enrol on this course through self‑funding.
Please contact our team to:
On successful completion, learners can progress to:
This course provides a solid foundation for moving into more advanced qualifications and eventual employment in education.
603/2477/6
57 Hours
47
Ncfe CACHE
Online
To achieve the qualification, learners must complete 3 mandatory units (6 credits in total).
All units will be internally assessed using a range of methods which could include: written assignments or tasks such as designing a leaflet or booklet, charts or diagrams or setting up an information board.
This is a knowledge‑only qualification, so learners do not need to be in a work placement to complete the course.