Free Level 2 Early Years Practitioner Course in Basingstoke. Classes run at Basingstoke College of Technology, full-time during the day. This NCFE early years practitioner qualification is designed for working with children from birth to five years old, with knowledge extending to age seven. It meets the Department for Education Level 2 criteria, so completing it gives you Early Years Practitioner status and counts toward staffing ratios in registered settings. The course runs over 35 weeks.
Who this course is for
This one-year NCFE qualification is designed for learners who are looking to work with children between birth and five years, and gain knowledge of working with children up to seven years. This course meets the Department for Education (DfE) Level 2 criteria that set out the knowledge, understanding and skills that a practitioner must demonstrate to achieve an Early Years Practitioner status and be counted in the ratios.
Entry requirements
Please see our website for full details
What you will learn
You'll develop knowledge of child development from birth to seven years old.
You'll learn how to support children's learning and play in early years settings.
You'll understand safeguarding responsibilities and how to keep children safe.
You'll study health, wellbeing, and care routines for young children.
You'll learn how to work with parents, carers, and other professionals.
You'll build understanding of the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) framework.
You'll develop skills in observing and assessing children's progress.
How you will learn
You'll learn through classroom sessions at Basingstoke College of Technology, combined with practical placement in an early years setting. Assessment includes written assignments, observations of your practice, and a portfolio of evidence. You'll be assessed against the Department for Education Level 2 criteria throughout the course.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. Basingstoke College of Technology will confirm anything else you need before you start.
Where next
Jobs you could do
Nursery practitioner. Work in a nursery counted in DfE staffing ratios.
Nursery assistant. Support children's daily care and learning activities.
Childminder's assistant. Work alongside a registered childminder.
Pre-school assistant. Support early learning in a pre-school setting.
Early years key worker. Take responsibility for a small group of children.
Playgroup worker. Lead or assist sessions for children under five.
What you could study next
Level 3 Early Years Educator. The next step for those wanting to take on greater responsibility. Level 3 is the qualification recognised in statutory staffing ratios for senior roles in nurseries and pre-schools.
Level 3 Diploma for the Early Years Workforce. Broadens your knowledge across the full birth-to-five age range.
Level 3 Award in Paediatric First Aid. A short qualification many early years employers require alongside your main childcare qualification.
