The QualCert Level 3 Diploma in Pediatric Nutrition and Feeding (Dip Pediatric Nutrition) is a specialised qualification designed for professionals who wish to deepen their knowledge and expertise in child nutrition, feeding practices, and developmental dietary needs. This diploma provides learners with a comprehensive understanding of the nutritional requirements of infants, children, and adolescents, along with practical strategies to support healthy growth, feeding routines, and dietary interventions.
This qualification is ideal for healthcare professionals, dietitians, nutritionists, early years practitioners, and caregivers who wish to enhance their career prospects, expand their knowledge, and strengthen their Continuing Professional Development (CPD). Learners will gain both theoretical knowledge and practical skills to assess, plan, and implement effective nutrition and feeding strategies, ensuring positive health outcomes for children in diverse settings.
Centres delivering the Level 3 Diploma in Pediatric Nutrition and Feeding are required to maintain the highest standards of teaching and support. Learners benefit from competent and qualified staff, access to comprehensive learning materials, and fully equipped facilities to provide a structured and effective learning experience. This ensures learners are well-prepared to apply their skills in professional environments and achieve success throughout the course.
By completing this diploma, learners will be equipped to make informed decisions, contribute to evidence-based nutritional care, and advance their careers in pediatric nutrition, healthcare, and related fields. The qualification emphasises both scientific understanding and professional application, providing learners with the confidence and competence to excel in child nutrition and feeding practice.
Course Contents of QualCert Level 3 Diploma in Pediatric Nutrition and Feeding (Dip Pediatric Nutrition):
The QualCert Level 3 Diploma in Pediatric Nutrition and Feeding (Dip Pediatric 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 |
| QC29063-1 | Fundamentals of Pediatric Nutrition | 10 | 35 | 50 |
| QC29063-2 | Feeding Practices and Behavioural Nutrition | 10 | 35 | 50 |
| QC29063-3 | Nutrition in Health and Disease | 10 | 35 | 50 |
| QC29063-4 | Food Safety, Hygiene, and Quality Assurance in Pediatric Nutrition | 10 | 35 | 50 |
| QC29063-5 | Nutritional Assessment and Planning | 10 | 35 | 50 |
| QC29063-6 | Professional Practice in Pediatric Nutrition | 10 | 35 | 50 |
Entry Requirements for the QualCert Level 3 Diploma in Pediatric Nutrition and Feeding (Dip Pediatric Nutrition):
Minimum Age
- Learners must be at least 18 years of age at the start of the course.
Educational Background
- Learners should hold a Level 2 qualification or equivalent in nutrition, health, childcare, or related disciplines. Prior knowledge of child nutrition or feeding practices is advantageous but not mandatory.
Experience
- While previous work experience is not required, learners with experience in childcare, healthcare, dietetics, or nutrition will find the course more practical and immediately applicable.
Language Proficiency
- Learners must have a strong command of English, both written and spoken, to fully engage with course materials, assessments, and practical exercises.
Commitment to Continuing Professional Development (CPD)
- Learners should be dedicated to Continuing Professional Development (CPD), applying knowledge and skills to improve professional practice and career progression.
Access to Required Resources
- Learners must have access to relevant learning materials, textbooks, digital platforms, and practical resources where applicable to ensure full participation and successful completion.
Learning Outcomes for the QualCert Level 3 Diploma in Pediatric Nutrition and Feeding (Dip Pediatric Nutrition):
Fundamentals of Pediatric Nutrition
- Understand the nutritional requirements for infants, children, and adolescents
- Recognise growth and development milestones and their nutritional implications
- Identify the roles of macronutrients and micronutrients in child development
- Analyse the impact of nutrition on physical and cognitive growth
Feeding Practices and Behavioural Nutrition
- Understand breastfeeding, bottle feeding, and weaning practices
- Plan and implement age-appropriate diets and solid food introduction
- Recognise common feeding behaviours and challenges in children
- Apply strategies to encourage healthy eating habits and positive mealtime experiences
Nutrition in Health and Disease
- Understand the role of nutrition in preventing and managing childhood illnesses
- Identify common nutritional deficiencies and their interventions
- Apply diet modification strategies for medical conditions such as allergies or diabetes
- Utilise evidence-based approaches to paediatric nutritional care
Food Safety, Hygiene, and Quality Assurance in Pediatric Nutrition
- Apply safe food handling and preparation techniques for children
- Understand hygiene practices and risk management in childcare and healthcare settings
- Implement quality assurance standards to ensure safe nutritional provision
- Comply with regulatory requirements and safeguarding practices
Nutritional Assessment and Planning
- Conduct assessments of dietary intake and nutritional status in children
- Develop balanced nutrition plans tailored to different age groups
- Monitor growth and developmental outcomes effectively
- Personalise nutrition strategies to meet individual needs
Professional Practice in Pediatric Nutrition
- Apply ethical principles and professional responsibilities in child nutrition
- Communicate nutrition guidance effectively to caregivers and families
- Develop and implement policies and best practices in childcare settings
- Plan and engage in Continuing Professional Development (CPD) to support career progression
This qualification is designed for learners who want to enhance their expertise and career prospects in child nutrition, feeding practices, and pediatric health. The course is suitable for:
- Aspiring Child Nutrition Professionals
- Individuals seeking to start a career in pediatric nutrition, childcare, or healthcare
- Learners looking for a recognised qualification to enhance employability and professional credibility
- Healthcare and Nutrition Practitioners
- Dietitians, nutritionists, healthcare assistants, and paediatric support staff aiming to deepen their knowledge of child nutrition and feeding practices
- Professionals seeking to integrate evidence-based nutritional strategies into care provision
- Childcare and Early Years Practitioners
- Staff working in nurseries, schools, and childcare settings responsible for planning, preparing, and supervising meals
- Learners wanting to understand feeding behaviour, nutritional requirements, and age-appropriate dietary interventions
- Parents and Caregivers with Professional Interest
- Individuals responsible for child health, growth, and wellbeing who wish to gain practical and scientific understanding of pediatric nutrition
- Learners aiming to implement effective feeding strategies at home or in professional childcare environments
- Learners Focused on Continuing Professional Development (CPD)
- Individuals committed to professional growth and staying updated with the latest research and best practices in pediatric nutrition
- Learners seeking to apply knowledge to improve workplace practices, policies, and career progression
This course equips learners with both theoretical knowledge and practical skills, preparing them to excel in pediatric nutrition, child health, and feeding practice across professional and care settings.
To deliver the Level 3 Diploma effectively and ensure learner success, centres must meet the following requirements:
- Qualified and Competent Staff
- Tutors and assessors must hold relevant qualifications in pediatric nutrition, dietetics, healthcare, or related disciplines
- Staff should maintain up-to-date knowledge of child nutrition, feeding practices, and regulatory standards
- Learning Resources and Materials
- Access to up-to-date textbooks, digital learning platforms, and reference materials
- Availability of practical equipment and facilities to support hands-on learning where applicable
- Teaching and Learning Environment
- Safe, clean, and appropriately equipped classrooms and practical areas
- Compliance with health and safety regulations for all teaching and practical activities
- Assessment and Quality Assurance Systems
- Established procedures for learner assessment, feedback, and internal verification
- Monitoring and review systems to maintain high standards of course delivery and compliance with QualCert requirements
- Administrative and Learner Support
- Efficient processes for learner registration, tracking, and record-keeping
- Provision of guidance, support, and additional resources to help learners achieve success
- Commitment to Continuous Improvement
- Regular staff training and professional development to maintain centre quality
- Review of course delivery, resources, and learner feedback to enhance teaching and learning outcomes