• Ability to follow verbal and written English instructions at Level 1 or above • Basic IT skills for accessing resources during workshops and self study • All learners will complete an initial BKSB assessment at the start of the course to confirm literacy level. • DWP customers may be able to receive support with public transport costs from the Job Centre.
Start date:
Sep 2026
Course Overview
The aim of this course is to empower learners with the knowledge, empathy, and practical tools needed to support the social, emotional, and mental health (SEMH) of children and young people. It is designed for individuals working with or supporting young people in educational, care, or community settings. The course will provide learners with in depth knowledge over 10 sessions to improve understanding of social, emotional and mental health in practice and theory.
What will I learn?
Over the course of the programme, learners will complete a series of shorter subject specific subjects, developing knowledge in the following areas:
Definitions and indicators of mental health and well being Prevalence and types of mental health conditions in youth Neurodiversity and Special Educational Needs (SEN), with a focus on SEMH The impact of childhood trauma and how it presents Understanding triggers and appropriate responses Awareness of self-harm and suicide in young people Trauma-informed approaches and practical interventions Mindfulness and grounding techniques to support well being Crisis support and age-appropriate responses Coping strategies and self-care for staff
How is the course delivered?
Learners attend all sessions and engage in learning activities to support the learning outcomes. Learning will be structured towards completing both individual and group activities to increase knowledge and understanding which will be assessed using a range of methods.
Further support and learning can be accessed through the Teams page, which will support specific aspects of the course with activities and resources.
How will my learning be assessed?
Regular submission of work that will be assessed and reviewed weekly. Learners will receive feedback in order to further develop their knowledge. Learners will assess their knowledge at the start of the course and again at the end against the learning outcomes. This allows them to identify how much they have learnt and where they might need to do further study or research. Learners will also be supported to set an individual target(s) for the course based on starting points, personal goals and career aspirations. Whether accessing assessment materials online or paper-based, learners will complete work associated with the course/qualification they are undertaking. This will be a range of activities from answering open questions, case studies, research activities and practical skills will be assessed throughout the programme. As part of the programme, we will also fund the application of an Enhanced DBS (Disclosure Barring Service) Certificate, the mandatory requirement for working in any health or social care setting, which includes any work shadow placement. You will be also required to provide personal information (ID, references, employment history and any Qualifications for example) in accordance with Schedule 2, of the Children’s Homes (England) regulations (2015). You will also be required to produce a number of ID documents to assist with the application, which will be discussed as part of your induction to the programme. We will fund the upgrade to the online update service once your certificate arrives.
Additional Information
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Potential Careers
Following completion of this course the following progression option(s) are available:
– Progression into employment as a Grade 5 or 6 Residential Child Care Worker – Progression to level 2 programmes which include: Certificate in Understanding Children and Young Peoples Mental Health Certificate in Supporting Children and Young People Certificate in Understanding Safeguarding and Prevent Certificate in Common Childhood Illnesses – Residential Childcare Apprenticeship Level 3
