Free Early Years Practitioner Level 2 Course in Newport. Full-time daytime classes run at Isle of Wight College, five days a week over 36 weeks. You'll need a minimum of four GCSEs at grade 3 or above, including maths and English, to enrol. The course covers child development from birth to five years, with knowledge extending to age seven. You'll spend time in an early years setting as part of your training, putting classroom learning into practice. This is the NCFE Level 2 early years practitioner qualification that employers look for when hiring nursery staff.
Who this course is for
This qualification is ideal for learners looking to work with children between birth and 5 years, and gain knowledge of working with children up to 7 years. Learners do not need to have previous experience or qualifications in working with children to undertake this qualification.
Entry requirements
The Isle of Wight College has standard entry requirements for full-time college courses, depending on the level of the course to be studied.
For this qualification you will need a minimum of 4 GCSE grades at level 3 including maths and English.
What you will learn
You'll understand how children develop from birth to five years, and up to seven years.
You'll learn how to plan and support play and learning activities for young children.
You'll study how to keep children safe, including safeguarding and health and safety responsibilities.
You'll learn how to support children's communication, language, and literacy development.
You'll understand how to work in partnership with parents, carers, and other professionals.
You'll learn how to observe and assess children's progress and development.
You'll study equality, diversity, and inclusion in early years settings.
How you will learn
You'll learn through classroom sessions at Isle of Wight College alongside practical experience in an early years setting. Assessment includes written assignments, observations of your practice in the workplace, and professional discussions with your assessor. You'll build a portfolio of evidence showing your competence with young children. The combination of college study and real placement hours is built into the full-time programme.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. Isle of Wight College will confirm anything else you need before you start.
Where next
Jobs you could do
Nursery practitioner: working with children aged birth to five in a nursery setting.
Nursery assistant: supporting qualified staff in a day nursery or preschool.
Childminder assistant: supporting a registered childminder with young children.
Preschool worker: planning and delivering activities in a preschool or playgroup.
Early years teaching assistant: supporting children in a Reception class.
Creche worker: providing childcare in a leisure or community setting.
What you could study next
Level 3 Early Years Educator: the qualification recognised in statutory staffing ratios for nursery work. This is the next step if you want to take on more responsibility or work toward a senior practitioner role.
Level 3 Diploma for the Children and Young People's Workforce: broadens your skills to work with children and young people up to age 19.
Level 3 Award in Paediatric First Aid: a short qualification many early years employers require alongside your main childcare qualification.
