CHILD DEVELOPMENT

At Saints Peter and Paul Catholic High School, our Child Care curriculum reflects our commitment to the dignity of every person and the importance of nurturing, serving, and supporting others, which are at the heart of Catholic Social Teaching.

By fostering compassion, responsibility, empathy, and aspiration, we inspire and equip every student, regardless of background or ability, with the knowledge, practical skills, and professional values needed to care for young children with confidence and respect. Through the study of child development, health, wellbeing, and early years practice, students develop an understanding of the importance of safeguarding, inclusion, and the unique value of every child.

“Understanding how children grow, learn and develop today helps out students and inspires the next generation tomorrow”

The OCR Cambridge National Level 2 in Child Development intent is to inspire students to develop a secure understanding of child growth and development from birth to five years. Through the study of physical, intellectual, emotional and social development, students gain knowledge of the importance of health, wellbeing, nutrition and play, while developing empathy, responsibility and an appreciation of the role adults play in supporting children to achieve their full potential. The course prepares students for further study and future careers in childcare, education, health and social care.

Key Stage 4 | child development

Students develop their knowledge through a combination of engaging theoretical and practical learning experiences. Lessons incorporate research, discussion, case studies, real-life scenarios and coursework activities, enabling students to apply their understanding of child development, nutrition and care to authentic contexts. Students are encouraged to think critically, communicate effectively and develop independence, while assessment opportunities support them in building the skills, knowledge and confidence needed for success in both the qualification and their future pathways.

Enrichment & Career Pathways

Designed to inspire future professionals, the curriculum provides:

Hands-on learning through practical childcare activities, simulated early years environments, and engagement with visiting practitioners.
Guidance towards progression opportunities, including Level 3 Childcare and Education qualifications, T Levels, apprenticeships, or further study in education, health, and social care.
Real insight into the early years and childcare sector, enabling students to make informed decisions about future education and career pathways while developing the skills and values needed to support the care, learning, and development of young children.

Catholic SOCIAL TEACHING

The OCR Cambridge National in Child Development reflects Catholic values by promoting the dignity of every child and recognising the importance of nurturing individuals to reach their God-given potential. Through the study of child growth, wellbeing and care, students develop empathy, compassion and respect for others, while enhancing their personal development through improved communication, responsibility, resilience and an understanding of the importance of supporting and serving their wider community.

PERSONAL DEVELOPMENT & Catholic Values

CHILD DEVELOPMENT CATHOLIC CURRICULUM

CURRICULM IMPACT

We measure our Child Development curriculum success by:

ACHIEVEMENT

Students develop a secure understanding of child development, health and wellbeing, enabling them to achieve strong outcomes in the OCR Cambridge National qualification.

PROGRESSION

Students are well prepared for further study in Child Development, Health and Social Care, Education and Early Years courses, as well as related career pathways.

PERSONAL DEVELOPMENT

Students demonstrate empathy, responsibility and effective communication skills, developing the confidence and resilience needed to support and care for others in a range of settings.