Early Years Practitioner Level 2
The Early Years Practitioner Level 2 Diploma is designed for individuals who wish to work with children from birth to five years old. Delivered on campus across two evenings a week, this course will equip you with the knowledge and practical skills required to work effectively and safely in an early years setting.
You will learn how to support children's development, health, and wellbeing through purposeful play and educational activities. The programme places a strong emphasis on practical competence, combining classroom learning with a mandatory industry placement to ensure you are fully prepared to enter the workforce as a qualified practitioner.
Duration: 36 weeks, 2 evenings per week.
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Sector Overview
The early years sector is a highly rewarding and growing industry dedicated to the care and development of young children. There is a strong demand for qualified early years practitioners in nurseries, preschools, and primary schools, offering excellent job security and clear pathways for career progression into senior practitioner or management roles.
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Entry Requirements
The entry requirements for this course are:
- A reasonable standard of English and maths (Level 1 or above recommended)
- An enhanced DBS check will be required prior to undertaking the work placement
- Assessment and interview
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What will I study?
This course consists of mandatory units covering the essential aspects of early years care:
- Roles and responsibilities of the Early Years Practitioner
- Health and safety of babies and young children in the early years
- Safeguarding, protection, and welfare of babies and young children
- Support care routines for babies and young children
- Support the planning and delivery of activities, purposeful play opportunities, and educational programmes
- Promote play in an early years setting
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How will I be assessed?
You will be assessed via:
- A portfolio of evidence demonstrating your knowledge and understanding
- Direct observation of your practical skills in a real work environment during your industry placement
- Tutor marked assignments
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Enrichment
As an adult learner, you will be offered opportunities to actively engage with industry related professionals to increase your personal and career development. This includes access to key industry guest speakers and finance experts who will deliver insights to help you build your industry knowledge and expand your professional network.
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Work Experience
You must complete 250 hours of external work placement which is an essential part of the programme. Some of the opportunities will include placements with employers such as local nurseries, preschools, and early years centres.
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Progression Opportunities
The completion of this course will allow you to progress onto:
- Early Years Educator Level 3 Diploma
- Higher skills development programmes more generically
- Higher level of Apprenticeship
- Employment in roles such as an Early Years Practitioner, Nursery Assistant, or Pre-school Assistant
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Alumni
Waltham Forest College is a vibrant and aspirational college and will support you to reach your career aspirations. Last year 90% of adult learners progressed onto a positive destination either to higher levels of study, employment, or an Apprenticeship.
