Childcare and children's courses
Find childcare courses that you can study online, often for free. They cover topics such as caring for children, childhood illnesses and children’s mental health.
We’re an independent guide. We don’t run courses. We help you compare them, check whether you can study for free, and see where each one could lead.
Who these courses are for
These courses suit you if you:
- want to work in a nursery, pre-school or school and want to learn the basics first
- already work with children, for example as a teaching assistant or nursery worker, and want to know more
- are a childminder, parent, foster carer or grandparent
- volunteer with children, for example at a club or youth group
Most courses are Level 2. That’s about the same level as a GCSE at grade 4 or above. You don’t need any qualifications to start.
These are short courses that build your knowledge. They’re not the full early years qualifications that nurseries need for staff to count in their ratios. Check the government’s list of early years qualifications if you want to work in a nursery.
Can I study for free?
Most of these courses are paid for by the government’s Adult Skills Fund (formerly the Adult Education Budget). In the 2026/27 academic year, you can usually study for free if you:
- are 19 or over
- live in England and meet the residency rules
- are unemployed, or earn less than £26,800 a year
Some places, such as Greater London and Greater Manchester, have their own adult skills budget and set their own rules. Because of this, some online providers can’t take learners from those areas.
“Free” doesn’t always mean no cost at all. Some providers charge an admin or withdrawal fee if you leave early or don’t finish. Always check before you sign up. The provider makes the final decision on whether you can study for free.
Check whether you’re eligible for a free course
Courses at a glance
- Courses
- 6, 4 free if you're eligible
- Level
- Level 2
- How you study
- Online, from home
Check whether you're eligible or filter these with all free courses.
Courses
Introducing Caring for Children and Young People
Level 2
For learners looking to gain a basic understanding of childcare, parenting and babysitting.
Understanding Adverse Childhood Experiences
Level 2
For learners looking to develop an understanding of adverse childhood experiences (ACEs).
We're checking this course's funding.
Understanding Common Childhood Illnesses
Level 2
For learners looking to increase their knowledge and understanding of common childhood illnesses (from birth to 5 years old).
Related courses from other subjects
These courses are listed under another subject, but they're also useful for childcare.
Understanding Autism
Level 2
For learners who wish to develop an understanding of autism and how to support individuals with autism.
Understanding Children and Young People's Mental Health
Level 2
For anyone looking to increase their knowledge and awareness of children and young people’s mental health (covering children aged 5 to 18).
Understanding Mental Health in the Early Years
Level 2
For learners who wish to understand mental health in young children in the early years (from birth to 5 years old).
We're checking this course's funding.
Where these courses can lead
Start with a Level 2 certificate
The courses on this page teach you about children's development, health and wellbeing. They help you decide whether working with children is right for you, and add to what you know if you already do.
Get a full early years qualification
To count in a nursery's staff-to-child ratios, you need a qualification on the government's "full and relevant" list. Many people take one through an apprenticeship while they work in a nursery.
Work in a school
If you'd rather work in a school, a teaching assistant qualification or apprenticeship is the usual next step.
Lead a room or a setting
With experience, Level 4 and 5 qualifications can lead to senior and leadership roles in early years.