First Steps to Childcare Learners Complete Programme

23 March 2026

On 3 March 2026, a new group of learners successfully completed the First Steps to Childcare course, developed by the Vale Childcare and Early Years team to support those considering a career in the sector.

The programme offers an accessible introduction to childcare and play work, helping learners explore the profession before progressing into employment, apprenticeships, or further training.

Delivered over six weeks at Palmerston Adult Learning Centre, the course combined practical learning with confidence-building activities.

Learners completed a range of key modules, including the Welsh Essential Skills Toolkit (WEST), Safeguarding, introductory First Aid, and sessions on play and inclusion. They also gained valuable insights from local childcare providers and received employability support from Communities for Work.

A key highlight of the programme was the opportunity for hands-on experience through volunteering in childcare and playwork settings. This allowed learners to apply their knowledge, observe experienced practitioners, and build confidence in real-world environments.

Programmes like First Steps to Childcare play an important role in strengthening the workforce by attracting new talent, supporting informed career choices, and creating clear progression routes into the sector.

All learners successfully completed the course, with many also progressing to interviews for apprenticeship opportunities. 

A huge thanks goes to Michelle Hopkins and Rebecca Satherley-Thomas for delivering and supporting the programme, and to Joanne Jones and Julia Sky from the Vale Play Team for their valuable contributions, including the Let’s Talk About Play sessions and placement support.