Free Level 2 Childcare Course. Study online. You can work through the material at your own pace, fitting study around your other commitments. The course covers child development from birth, the role of play, nutrition, and safeguarding. Units explore how positive environments support young children, the importance of creativity and imagination, and how to keep children safe. This free childcare course for adults typically takes 12 weeks to complete. It's a solid starting point for anyone moving toward a childcare qualification or further training in education and care.
Who this course is for
This qualification is designed for learners who want to develop knowledge of caring for children and young people. It is suitable for those interested in childcare, education, babysitting or parenting responsibilities. The course provides an introduction to working with children and supports learners preparing for further training or employment in childcare-related areas.
Entry requirements
There are no formal entry requirements for this qualification, although learners must be aged 16 or over. The course is suitable for learners with an interest in childcare and may be particularly helpful for those considering a future career in childcare, education or working with children and young people.
What you will learn
You'll explore the stages of child development from birth to three years.
You'll learn how positive environments support young children's growth.
You'll understand the value of play to children from birth to five years old.
You'll discover how creativity and imagination contribute to early learning.
You'll learn how to organise activities, including cooking activities, for young children.
You'll understand the role of books and stories in child development.
You'll study safeguarding principles and how to protect the welfare of children and young people.
How you will learn
This is a distance learning course. You'll study using paper materials alongside online and paper-based assessments. There are no formal entry requirements. You'll work through units covering child development, play, nutrition, and safeguarding at your own pace. Certificates are issued digitally on achievement.
What you will need to bring
Professional Training Solutions will confirm anything you need before you start. The course uses paper materials alongside online resources, so you'll need a reliable internet connection for the online elements.
Where next
Jobs you could do
Youth Support Worker - supporting young people in community or education settings
Nursery Assistant - helping with daily care and activities in early years settings
Childminder - providing home-based childcare, subject to Ofsted registration
Playworker - leading play activities in after-school or holiday clubs
Teaching Assistant - supporting children's learning in primary school settings
Family Support Worker - helping families access services and develop parenting skills
What you could study next
Level 3 Diploma for the Early Years Educator - the qualification recognised in statutory staffing ratios for nursery work; the natural next step if you want to work in a registered childcare setting.
Level 3 Award in Safeguarding and Protecting Children - deepens your safeguarding knowledge and is valued across education, care, and youth work roles.
Level 2 or 3 Diploma in Health and Social Care - broadens your options into adult and children's social care.
