The aim of this qualification is to provide you with the knowledge and understanding of babies and young children from birth to seven years of age with applied knowledge in the early years, 0–5 years.
The qualification content meets the Department for Education’s (DfE) Level 2 full and relevant criteria for a Level 2 Early Years Practitioner in the workforce.
This is a one-year course.
For ages 16-18: You will attend college for three days a week and spend two days on placement. We will provide your DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service) check.
For adults: You will attend college one day a week and must be working, volunteering, or on practical placement in a real work environment (RWE) for two days a week. This is necessary to demonstrate both knowledge and skills for the qualification. Since you are responsible for finding your own placement, you will need to have obtained your DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service) check to ensure you can work with children.
In addition to your childcare studies you will study English and Maths if you do not have these qualifications at Grade C/4 and above. This does not apply if you are aged 19+, however, it is strongly recommended that you undertake an assessment in these areas and enrol where possible.
You should have:
- Four GCSEs at grade 3 or above, including English and maths at grade 3 or Functional Skills Level 1 qualifications
or - A relevant Level 1 course and Functional Skills Level 1 in English and maths.
At enrolment, you will have an interview with our course tutors to ensure the course is right for you. You may also need to complete an initial assessment in English and maths, depending on your grades.
In order to study the course, you must also hold a valid Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check - this is a legal requirement for all people working with children.
Your assessments are designed to match what you’ve learned. All your work will be marked by your tutors, giving you a chance to show off your skills in real-world situations.
You’ll build a portfolio of your coursework, showcasing your progress throughout the course. Plus, you’ll get hands-on experience through practical assignments and receive feedback from your tutors. Some mandatory units may be assessed by external exams.
After completing this course, you'll be well-prepared for further study or employment in the industry, such as a Level 3 Extended Diploma, which can lead to university-level study.
Units covered can include:
- Roles and responsibilities of the Early Years Practitioner
- Health and safety of babies and young children in the early years
- Equality, diversity and inclusive practice in Early Years Settings
School Leavers (16-18)
If you will be 16, 17 or 18 years old on 31 August before your course starts, and you have the legal right to live in the UK for the full length of your study programme, your course will be free.
You may also be eligible for financial help to support with books, travel, course materials and childcare costs â please click here for more information.
Adult Students (19+)
If you will be aged 19 or older on 31 August before your course starts, are resident in London, and have the legal right to stay in the UK for at least 12 months, you may be eligible to study for free, depending on your circumstances and chosen course. For more information, please click here.
You may also be eligible for financial help to support with books, travel, course materials and childcare costs â please click here.
Course Fee: £2531.52
You may be eligible for financial help to support with books, travel, course materials and childcare costs â please click here for more information.




