Free Level 2 Childcare Course. Study online. You can work through the course at your own pace, fitting study around your existing commitments. Over around 117 hours, you'll cover child development from birth, the role of play in early learning, safeguarding and welfare, and healthy nutrition for children. Entry requirements include being aged 19 or over and holding at least a Level 1 qualification in English or literacy. A free childcare course for adults looking to build knowledge in this area.
Who this course is for
The Level 2 Introducing Caring for Children and Young People Certificate is ideal for employers looking to develop their staff or for individuals looking to upskill and demonstrate their competency. It can be used to update and/or develop knowledge and skills relevant to the occupational specialisation. It is suitable for anyone with a personal interest in this topic can provide the initial steps to a career in childcare. Throughout the course you will study the following: Unit 1 Young Children's Development, Unit 2 The Value of Play to Young Children, Unit 3 The Importance of Play for Early Learning, Unit 4 Safeguarding the Welfare of Children and Young People, Unit 5 Use Food and Nutrition Information to Plan a Health Diet, The course provides and introduction to understanding childcare through exploring the development of young children. It will focus on the value and importance of play as well as covering topics such as safeguarding and welfare. It has the added benefit of being a nationally recognised Level 2 qualification.
Entry requirements
You will need to be aged be 19+ as at 31st August prior to the start of the current academic year. You will also need to have at least a Level 1 qualification in English/Literacy or equivalent. To assist in completion of this qualification, it may help to be working in, or have access to, the chosen sector. If you already have a higher-level qualification in this specialism, it may impact on your eligibility.
What you will learn
You'll explore key stages of child development from birth to 3 years and how positive environments support growth.
You'll investigate the importance of play for children from birth to 5 years and examine suitable activities.
You'll learn how to support creativity, imagination, and early literacy through books and stories.
You'll examine legislation, guidelines, and procedures for safeguarding the welfare of children and young people.
You'll learn how to respond when a child is injured, ill, or at risk of abuse, harm, or bullying.
You'll develop an understanding of healthy nutrition and how to plan a balanced diet for children.
How you will learn
You'll study entirely online, working through five units at your own pace. Assessment is based on the work you complete for each unit. Boston College Skirbeck Road will confirm the specific assessment format before you start. You'll need internet access and the ability to read and write in English at Level 1 or above.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. Boston College Skirbeck Road will confirm anything else you need before you start.
Where next
Jobs you could do
Youth Support Worker: supporting young people in community or education settings.
Nursery Assistant: helping with early years care and learning activities.
Playworker: organising and supervising play sessions for children.
Childcare Worker: providing day-to-day care in a nursery or home setting.
Family Support Worker: assisting families with young children in need of guidance.
Teaching Assistant (Early Years): supporting children in a school or pre-school environment.
What you could study next
Level 3 Diploma in Childcare and Education (Early Years Educator): the qualification recognised in statutory staffing ratios for nursery work. A natural next step if you want to work in a qualified role in an early years setting.
Level 3 Award in Safeguarding and Protecting Children and Young People: deepens your knowledge of child protection for roles with greater responsibility.
Level 2 Diploma in Health and Social Care: broadens your options into adult and children's social care.
