The QualCert Level 3 Diploma in Maternal and Child Nutrition (Dip Maternal and Child Nutrition) is a specialised qualification designed to provide learners with advanced knowledge and practical understanding of nutrition during pregnancy, infancy, and early childhood. This diploma equips professionals with the expertise to support maternal health, promote safe pregnancy outcomes, and ensure optimal child development through evidence-based nutritional practices.
This qualification is aimed at learners who are looking to enhance their career prospects, expand their professional knowledge, and strengthen their Continuing Professional Development (CPD). It is particularly relevant for individuals working in healthcare, public health, nutrition, and community services, as well as those aspiring to advance into specialised roles in maternal and child health.
Centres delivering this diploma must ensure that competent and qualified staff are in place to provide expert guidance, alongside access to high-quality learning resources and practical materials. This ensures that every learner receives the right balance of theoretical knowledge and applied skills to achieve success in their studies and professional practice.
By completing this diploma, learners will gain valuable insights into the role of nutrition in supporting mothers and children, contributing to improved health outcomes in communities. The programme not only supports career progression but also strengthens professional credibility, making it a valuable pathway for those committed to excellence in the field of maternal and child nutrition.
Course Contents of QualCert Level 3 Diploma in Maternal and Child Nutrition (Dip Maternal and Child Nutrition):
The QualCert Level 3 Diploma in Maternal and Child Nutrition (Dip Maternal and Child Nutrition), offers 60 Credits, requiring a Total Qualification Time (TQT) of 300 hours, including 210 Guided Learning Hours (GLH).
| Unit Ref# | Unit Title | Credit | GLH | TQT |
| QC29043-1 | Foundations of Maternal Nutrition | 10 | 35 | 50 |
| QC29043-2 | Nutrition During Pregnancy and Lactation | 10 | 35 | 50 |
| QC29043-3 | Infant and Child Feeding Practices | 10 | 35 | 50 |
| QC29043-4 | Nutritional Assessment of Mothers and Children | 10 | 35 | 50 |
| QC29043-5 | Public Health Approaches to Maternal and Child Nutrition | 10 | 35 | 50 |
| QC29043-6 | Global Challenges and Interventions in Maternal and Child Nutrition | 10 | 35 | 50 |
Entry Requirements for theQualCert Level 3 Diploma in Maternal and Child Nutrition (Dip Maternal and Child Nutrition):
Minimum Age
- Learners must be at least 16 years old at the time of registration.
Educational Background
- A minimum of a Level 2 qualification (or equivalent) in health, nutrition, science, or a related discipline is recommended. Learners with other relevant academic backgrounds may also be considered.
Experience
- While prior experience in healthcare, nutrition, or community health is beneficial, it is not mandatory. The course is designed to support both experienced professionals and those seeking to develop specialised knowledge in maternal and child nutrition.
Language Proficiency
- Learners must demonstrate proficiency in the English language, with the ability to read, write, and communicate effectively in an academic and professional context.
Commitment to Continuing Professional Development (CPD)
- Learners should show a genuine interest in Continuing Professional Development (CPD) and be committed to applying nutritional knowledge to improve maternal and child health outcomes.
Access to Required Resources
- Learners must have access to appropriate learning resources, including a computer or smart device with internet connectivity, as well as any materials provided by the training centre.
Meeting these entry requirements ensures that every learner can engage effectively with the programme, develop advanced skills, and achieve success in maternal and child nutrition practice.
Learning Outcomes for the QualCert Level 3 Diploma in Maternal and Child Nutrition (Dip Maternal and Child Nutrition):
Unit 1: Foundations of Maternal Nutrition
- Understand the basic principles of human nutrition and dietary needs
- Identify the role of macronutrients and micronutrients in maternal health
- Explain the physiological changes during pregnancy and their nutritional implications
- Recognise the impact of poor nutrition on maternal and foetal outcomes
Unit 2: Nutrition During Pregnancy and Lactation
- Demonstrate knowledge of essential dietary requirements during pregnancy
- Analyse the nutritional needs of women during lactation
- Evaluate the impact of maternal diet on infant health and development
- Apply evidence-based recommendations to promote maternal and child well-being
Unit 3: Infant and Child Feeding Practices
- Understand the benefits and challenges of breastfeeding
- Explain complementary feeding practices and appropriate weaning strategies
- Assess nutritional needs of infants, toddlers, and young children
- Promote safe and culturally appropriate feeding practices for different age groups
Unit 4: Nutritional Assessment of Mothers and Children
- Apply methods for assessing dietary intake and nutritional status
- Use anthropometric measurements to monitor maternal and child growth
- Identify early signs of malnutrition, deficiencies, or obesity
- Interpret assessment results to support effective nutrition planning
Unit 5: Public Health Approaches to Maternal and Child Nutrition
- Understand the role of public health initiatives in improving nutrition
- Examine community-based strategies for promoting maternal and child health
- Evaluate the effectiveness of health education and awareness programmes
- Contribute to sustainable approaches for improving nutrition in communities
Unit 6: Global Challenges and Interventions in Maternal and Child Nutrition
- Analyse the global burden of malnutrition, undernutrition, and obesity
- Evaluate international strategies and interventions in maternal and child nutrition
- Understand the relationship between food security, poverty, and health outcomes
- Recommend evidence-based solutions to address global nutrition challenges
The QualCert Level 3 Diploma in Maternal and Child Nutrition is designed for learners who want to build specialised expertise in supporting maternal health, infant feeding, and child nutrition. This qualification is ideal for:
- Healthcare Assistants and Support Workers
- Looking to gain a deeper understanding of nutrition during pregnancy and early childhood.
- Aiming to provide better care and guidance to mothers and families.
- Nutrition and Dietetic Assistants
- Seeking to enhance their knowledge of maternal and child nutrition.
- Preparing for career progression into advanced nutrition or public health roles.
- Community and Public Health Workers
- Working within local health services, NGOs, or outreach programmes.
- Supporting families in improving nutrition, growth, and health outcomes.
- Childcare and Early Years Practitioners
- Ensuring children under their care receive appropriate and balanced nutrition.
- Understanding safe weaning, feeding practices, and child growth monitoring.
- Aspiring Nutrition Professionals
- Individuals aiming to start a career in the nutrition and health sector.
- Learners seeking a strong foundation for future study in maternal and child health.
- CPD-Focused Professionals
- Those committed to Continuing Professional Development (CPD).
- Looking to strengthen their professional profile and credibility with a recognised diploma.
This course is tailored for learners who are passionate about improving maternal and child health outcomes, while also advancing their career opportunities in healthcare, nutrition, or community services.
Centres wishing to deliver the QualCert Level 3 Diploma in Maternal and Child Nutrition must meet the following requirements to ensure high-quality training and learner success:
- Qualified Staff
- Tutors, trainers, and assessors must be suitably qualified and experienced in nutrition, healthcare, or related fields.
- Staff should demonstrate expertise in both teaching and assessing learners at Level 3.
- Learning Resources
- Centres must provide access to up-to-date textbooks, journals, and digital learning materials.
- Appropriate facilities, including classrooms, study spaces, and online learning platforms, should be available.
- Assessment Facilities
- Centres should ensure access to the necessary tools for both formative and summative assessments.
- Secure and fair assessment processes must be maintained in line with awarding body standards.
- Quality Assurance
- Internal quality assurance systems must be in place to monitor teaching, learning, and assessment practices.
- Regular reviews should be conducted to ensure compliance with qualification requirements.
- Learner Support
- Centres must provide academic guidance, pastoral care, and career advice where necessary.
- Support should be accessible to meet the diverse needs of all learners.
- Health and Safety Compliance
- Centres must provide a safe and supportive learning environment in compliance with relevant legislation.
- Record Keeping
- Accurate records of learner progress, achievements, and assessments must be maintained and available for verification.