Foundational Care and Development (Core Diploma)
The first year establishes the essential practical skills and theoretical understanding of child development, similar to a standard one-year diploma, but with greater depth.
1. Child Development and Psychology
Physical & Cognitive Milestones: In-depth study of developmental stages from infancy (0-1 year) through toddlerhood (1-3 years) and preschool (3-5 years).
Developmental Theories: Detailed study of Piaget's cognitive stages, Erikson's psychosocial stages, and Vygotsky's social development theory.
Observation and Assessment: Advanced techniques for documenting, analyzing, and reporting a child's progress, including identifying potential developmental delays.
2. Practical Care and Nutrition
Advanced Infant Care: Specialized feeding techniques (e.g., introduction to solids, bottle weaning), complex soothing methods, and establishing healthy sleep routines.
Child Health and Hygiene: Recognizing and managing common childhood illnesses, fever protocols, allergy management, and oral health care.
Paediatric First Aid and CPR: Mandatory certification and practical training in emergency response for infants and children.
Nutrition and Diet Planning: Designing balanced meal plans for different age groups, accommodating cultural diets, managing common allergies (e.g., gluten, dairy), and working with fussy eaters.
3. Early Education and Play
Curriculum Planning: Developing age-appropriate educational activities based on developmental needs, integrating numeracy, literacy, and creative arts.
Positive Guidance: Mastering non-violent communication and effective discipline strategies to promote self-regulation and positive social behaviour.
Advanced Skills, Management, and Specialization
The second year focuses on complex care situations, administration, and professional development.
4. Specialized Care and Health Issues
Special Needs Care: Introduction to caring for children with common special needs (e.g., Autism Spectrum Disorder, ADHD, learning disabilities), focusing on tailored routines and support strategies.
Chronic Health Conditions: Basic management knowledge for children with conditions like asthma, diabetes (Type 1), and severe allergies (EpiPen use training).
Mental Health and Wellness: Recognizing early signs of emotional distress, anxiety, or trauma, and appropriate strategies for referral or support.
5. Professionalism and Family Management
Nanny Business Management: Understanding legal contracts, compensation, employment laws, tax implications (depending on region), and professional insurance.
Cross-Cultural Communication: Working effectively with diverse families and understanding different parenting styles, cultural norms, and linguistic barriers.
Household Administration: Advanced organizational skills, budget management for child-related expenses, and scheduling complex activities and appointments.
Ethics and Boundaries: In-depth study of professional boundaries, confidentiality, and managing complex professional-family dynamics.
6. Internship and Capstone Project
Advanced Practical Placement: A longer, mandatory 6-9 month internship in a setting that offers diverse care experiences (e.g., high-profile family, specialized daycare, or an inclusive learning center).
Capstone Project: A research paper or case study focused on a specialized area, such as developing a curriculum plan for a child with specific learning needs or creating a comprehensive risk management plan for a home environment.
This Advanced Diploma prepares graduates for roles as Head Nannies, Childcare Consultants, or Nanny Managers, capable of handling complex domestic arrangements and specialized child needs.
