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Free Level 2 Childcare Course in Poole

CostFREE
Duration1 year
LevelLevel 2
DeliveryClassroom based
Start2 Sep 2026
Study modeFull-time
AttendanceDaytime
Awarding bodyNCFE awarding body
Apply now →

About this course

Free Level 2 Childcare Course in Poole. Classes run at Bournemouth & Poole College of Further Education. This full-time, daytime childcare qualification covers child development from birth to seven years, including safeguarding, play, behaviour support, and accident prevention. The course runs for one year. You'll also study GCSE Maths and English alongside your childcare classes. Entry requires a minimum of 4 GCSEs at grades 3 to 9 including English and Maths, or a relevant Level 1 qualification with Level 1 Functional Skills in English and Maths.

Who this course is for

This is a 1-year full-time course, based at Poole College and can be used to progress to a Level 3 course either in Early Years, other areas, or an apprenticeship. The aim of this qualification is to provide learners with the knowledge and understanding of babies and young children from birth to seven years of age with applied knowledge in the early years, Birth to Five years.

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Entry requirements

You will require a minimum of 4 GCSEs at Grades 3-9 including English and Maths. Alternatively students must have successfully completed a relevant level 1 qualification and have achieved Level 1 Functional skills in English and Maths. Please note this course is designed for 16-19 year olds only.

What you will learn

  • You'll understand child development from birth to seven years, including the early years Birth to Five framework.
  • You'll learn how to respect and value children's rights and responsibilities.
  • You'll study safeguarding and the welfare of children.
  • You'll explore how to support children's positive behaviour.
  • You'll learn about accident prevention and keeping children safe.
  • You'll understand the importance of play for early learning.
  • You'll develop skills in sharing learning experiences with children.

How you will learn

You'll learn through classroom sessions with subject specialists, plus input from guest speakers from external agencies. Assessment is through assignments, academic posters, practical activities, and presentations. Regular coursework is set throughout the year to help you prepare. You'll study GCSE Maths and English alongside the childcare course.

What you will need to bring

The centre will provide most materials. Bournemouth & Poole College of Further Education 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: leading play sessions for children in structured settings.
  • Childcare Assistant: supporting qualified staff in nurseries or creches.
  • Early Years Practitioner: working with children from birth to five years.
  • Teaching Assistant (Early Years): supporting learning in Reception or pre-school.

What you could study next

This level 2 childcare qualification is designed as a stepping stone to further study.

  • Level 3 Early Years Educator: the qualification recognised in statutory staffing ratios for nursery work. This is the natural next step after completing this course.
  • T Level in Education and Early Years: a two-year technical qualification combining classroom study with an industry placement.
  • Apprenticeship in Early Years: earn while you learn, working toward a recognised qualification in a childcare setting.
Apply on thecollege.co.uk →
Apply now →

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