Proper nutrition during childhood plays a critical role in shaping long-term health, growth, and development. The OSHAA 30-Hours Professional Diploma in Paediatric Nutrition is a comprehensive training programme designed to provide participants with an in-depth understanding of nutritional requirements from infancy through adolescence. This course offers practical tools and evidence-based knowledge to support the dietary needs of children in both personal and professional care settings.
The OSHAA Professional Diploma in Paediatric Nutrition is a 30-hour learning experience that combines scientific theory with practical application. It covers the nutritional demands of various paediatric life stages, from breastfeeding and weaning to adolescent dietary planning. The course also explores nutritional deficiencies, common childhood health issues, and the importance of fostering healthy eating habits from an early age.
The OSHAA diploma offers a unique combination of practical knowledge and professional credibility. Developed by experienced educators and nutrition specialists, the programme addresses the real-world challenges of paediatric nutrition while maintaining alignment with UK health standards. Participants will leave with a solid foundation to support child health in both home and institutional settings.
After completing this course, participants may progress to advanced study in child nutrition, dietetics, or public health. The diploma also supports career development in childcare, health promotion, education, and early years settings. With childhood nutrition now recognised as a cornerstone of long-term wellness, this qualification offers both immediate value and lasting impact.
OSHAA 30-Hours Professional Diploma in Pediatric Nutrition
Study Units
Learning Outcomes
Introduction to Paediatric Nutrition and Child Growth (3 hours)
- Understand the relationship between nutrition and healthy growth in children
- Identify the stages of child development and associated nutritional needs
- Recognise indicators of normal and delayed growth patterns
Breastfeeding, Bottle-Feeding, and Weaning Practices (4 hours)
- Explain the nutritional benefits of breastfeeding and formula feeding
- Compare feeding methods and appropriate practices for each stage
- Understand best practices for introducing complementary foods during weaning
Nutritional Requirements of Toddlers and Pre-Schoolers (3 hours)
- Identify key nutrients required for early childhood development
- Plan age-appropriate meals that meet energy and nutrient needs
- Address common feeding challenges in toddlers and young children
Meal Planning and Balanced Diets for School-Age Children (4 hours)
- Develop balanced meal plans in line with UK dietary guidelines
- Understand portion sizes and nutrient distribution for growing children
- Promote healthy food choices within school and home environments
Adolescent Nutrition and Nutritional Needs During Puberty (6 hours)
- Explain the impact of puberty on nutritional requirements
- Identify key nutrients for bone health, hormonal development, and cognitive function
- Support adolescents in making independent, healthy food choices
Managing Food Allergies, Intolerances, and Special Diets (4 hours)
- Recognise signs and symptoms of common food allergies and intolerances
- Understand how to manage exclusion diets safely and effectively
- Plan inclusive, nutritionally balanced meals for children with dietary restrictions
Preventing and Addressing Childhood Obesity and Undernutrition (3 hours)
- Identify risk factors and early signs of obesity and undernutrition
- Understand the long-term impact of poor nutrition on child health
- Apply strategies to promote healthy weight management in a supportive way
Encouraging Healthy Eating Habits and Behavioural Approaches (3 hours)
- Use behavioural strategies to promote positive mealtime experiences
- Understand the influence of family, media, and environment on eating behaviour
- Encourage lifelong healthy habits through education and role modelling
Course Benefits – OSHAA 30-Hours Professional Diploma in Paediatric Nutrition
- Equips participants with a solid foundation in child growth and nutritional science from infancy through adolescence
- Enhances practical skills in planning age-appropriate, balanced meals for various developmental stages
- Builds confidence in supporting breastfeeding, weaning, and transition to solid foods
- Provides evidence-based strategies to manage common dietary challenges in children, including allergies and intolerances
- Supports early identification and prevention of nutritional deficiencies, obesity, and undernutrition
- Improves understanding of behavioural influences on children’s eating habits and how to encourage positive change
- Strengthens communication skills to work effectively with families and caregivers on nutrition-related matters
- Aligns with UK public health and dietary guidelines for paediatric nutrition
- Offers a recognised qualification relevant to childcare, healthcare, education, and community health sectors
- Supports career progression or further study in child nutrition, public health, and early years support services
The OSHAA 30-Hours Professional Diploma in Paediatric Nutrition is designed for participants who are involved in, or interested in supporting, the nutritional health and development of children. It is particularly suitable for:
- Childcare practitioners, nursery workers, and early years professionals
- Healthcare support staff, carers, and community health workers
- Teachers, teaching assistants, and school meal planners
- Family support workers and outreach professionals working with children and parents
- Individuals responsible for feeding or caring for children in domestic or professional settings
- Participants seeking to build a foundation for further study in child nutrition, dietetics, or public health
This course is ideal for participants who wish to gain evidence-based knowledge, develop practical skills, and contribute meaningfully to the health and well-being of children through informed nutritional care.
