The United Synagogue

The NVQ

This qualification is nationally recognised and based upon National Standards and is offered at different levels. Candidates can progress from one level to another.

Which NVQs are offered at the Agency for Jewish Education (AJE)?

The AJE is an accredited assessment centre for The Council for Awards in Children's Care and Education (CACHE) which offers an NVQ in Children's Care, Learning and Development (CCLD) at levels 2 and 3.
For whom is the CCLD suitable?

People working with children in:

● pre-schools
● creches
● playgroups or nurseries
● childminders working in their own homes
● nannies or carers working in the child's home
● family support workers
● teaching assistants in schools.

What is the best level for me?

● Level 2 is for nursery assistants, creche workers, special needs assistants and anyone working under supervision in face to face roles with children and families.

● Level 3 is for childminders, nursery key workers, nursery/preschool supervisors or anyone working with children in a supervisory role.

How will I gain the qualification?

● The qualification is not examination based however it has two parts to it:
● Demonstration of your competence and skills in the workplace

● A portfolio that demonstrates your knowledge and understanding about children's care, learning and development.

How long does the course last?

You will be required to attend the AJE one afternoon a week for three to four terms, (depending on the qualification level). During this time you will also be building your portfolio of evidence. Completion of the entire qualification should take no longer than eighteen months.

How much time do I need to devote to the qualification?

In addition to the weekly three-hour taught session at the AJE, you will need to spend five hours a week reading and building your portfolio.

Who will assess me?

You will be assigned a personal assessor who will mentor you and observe you in the workplace.

What are the entry requirements?

● There are no formal entry qualifications.

● You will need the appropriate skills and experience gained through working with children.

● You should be currently working a minimum of two days a week in a suitable workplace setting.

How do I apply?

● Contact the Early Years administrator at the AJE for an application form or click on application form link

● On receipt of your application, you will be invited to an interview and asked to undertake a short written task.


What financial commitment is required?

Course fees are approximately £1350 (subject to change). Some local authorities give grants towards the cost of the fees. Your workplace setting might also contribute towards the fees.

What do my fees cover?

● Induction sessions

● Direct observation assessments

● Portfolio support workshops

● Portfolio assessment

● The taught course

● Registration with awarding body

● Certificate of competence

● Access to all Learning Resource facilities in the reference library

What resources will I need?

● All course materials will be given to you.

● Books/magazines are available in the reference library.

● We highly recommend that you purchase "Children's Care, Learning and Development" by Tassoni et.al. published by Heinemann. This book can be purchased through the AJE.


How will my workplace be involved in my training?

● Your workplace will need to support you in collecting evidence and enabling your assessor to observe you.

● A letter of agreement which will demonstrate the support of your workplace setting, (unless you are a childminder) is required by the assessment centre.


For more information please contact:

Mrs Sandy Potashnick
Centre Co-ordinator
Tel: 020 8457 9719
Email: sandy@aje.org.uk


Please download the NVQ Application Form below.