Free Level 2 Early Years Course in Keighley. Classes run at Keighley College, full-time during the day, over one year. The course covers children's care and education broadly, giving you a grounding in child development, safeguarding, and supporting learning in nursery and primary settings. You'll need five GCSEs at grade D/3 or above to apply. This free early years course leads to work as a nursery practitioner or classroom support assistant.
Who this course is for
This course allows students to engage in a broad investigation of the children’s care and education sector.
Entry requirements
Learners must have 5 GCSE’s at Grade D/3 or above and a genuine interest in working with children and young people.
What you will learn
You'll explore child development from birth through primary school age.
You'll study safeguarding and how to keep children safe.
You'll learn how to support children's learning and play.
You'll examine how early years and primary settings are organised and regulated.
You'll develop skills in observing and recording children's progress.
You'll look at how to work with parents, carers, and other professionals.
You'll understand inclusive practice and how to support children with additional needs.
How you will learn
You'll learn through classroom sessions at Keighley College, combining taught lessons with practical tasks and assignments. Assessment is through written assignments and observations of your work with children, typically in a placement setting. You'll build a portfolio of evidence throughout the year to demonstrate your skills and knowledge.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. Keighley College will confirm anything else you need before you start.
Where next
Jobs you could do
Nursery practitioner: support children's learning and care in a nursery setting.
Nursery assistant: assist qualified staff in an early years environment.
Classroom assistant: support teachers in a primary school.
Teaching assistant: work alongside teachers with pupils aged 4 to 11.
Playworker: lead play activities in after-school or holiday clubs.
Childminder assistant: support a registered childminder at home or in the community.
What you could study next
Level 3 Early Years Educator: the qualification recognised in statutory staffing ratios for nursery work. This is the natural next step if you want to take on more responsibility in an early years setting.
Level 3 Teaching Assistant Diploma: if you want to move into primary school support roles.
Level 3 Award in Childcare and Education: a shorter route to deepen your knowledge of early years practice.
