The NCFE CACHE Level 1 Award in Preparing to Work in Schools is an ideal introduction for anyone considering a future career supporting children and young people in education.
The course will help you develop an understanding of the teaching and learning environment within schools while introducing important areas such as children's development, wellbeing, safety and effective communication. It provides an excellent first step towards further study and training within the education sector.
Understand Schools as Organisations — develop your understanding of how schools are structured, organised and operate.
Understand How to Keep Children and Young People Healthy, Safe and Well — explore the importance of safeguarding, health, safety and supporting children's wellbeing.
Understand How to Communicate with Children, Young People and Adults — learn about effective communication and how positive relationships can support children and young people.
No specialist equipment is specified for this qualification. Learners will need appropriate stationery and access to the resources required to complete their course assignments.
There are no formal examinations. You will be assessed internally through a range of practical and written activities. These may include written assignments, producing leaflets or booklets, creating charts and diagrams, and developing information displays.
If you're not eligible to study for free, the cost of this course is:
Hi, I’m Ailz. What I love most about education is the opportunity to make a genuine difference to people’s lives, help them recognise their own potential, and open doors to new careers and pathways. I began my career teaching English in Further Education, before becoming a mentor for trainee teachers through their placement years. I really enjoyed mentoring and coaching trainees, helping them develop their practice and discover their own strengths as teachers. This led me into teacher education, where I now work as a Programme Lead, supporting the next generation of teachers in the Further Education and Skills sector.
I care deeply about social mobility, the importance of positive relationships, and helping students feel confident and engaged in their learning. I’m a nurturing and approachable teacher educator, and I’m committed to ensuring that every trainee I work with feels encouraged, valued, and supported as they develop their practice.
I’m Sasha. What I enjoy most about working in education is helping people build confidence and realise their full potential. I spent 13 years working as a teaching assistant and Learning Support Assistant before moving into teaching Health and Social Care and Access courses with learners aged 16 and over. These experiences shaped my belief in the importance of positive relationships and adapting teaching to meet individual needs.
Mentoring trainee teachers and coaching colleagues sparked my interest in teacher education, which I moved into in 2024. I enjoy helping trainees connect theory with classroom practice, try out new approaches and find their own confidence as teachers. I aim to create a supportive space where they can ask questions, reflect honestly and feel comfortable seeking advice.
I have a degree in Psychology, a master’s in Mental Health, a PGCE, the National Professional Qualification in Leading Teacher Development and a Postgraduate Certificate in Coaching and Mentoring in Education. These studies continue to inform my interests in inclusive teaching, wellbeing, and supporting others to develop their practice.
