Free Level 2 Early Years Practitioner Course in Bedford. Classes run at Bedford College on a part-time daytime timetable, making it manageable alongside other commitments. You'll develop the knowledge and practical skills needed to support children's learning, development, and wellbeing in early years settings. The course covers child development, safeguarding, communication, and how to plan and deliver activities for young children. You'll have an initial assessment to confirm this is the right level for you. The course typically takes one year part-time.
Who this course is for
Course Summary can be found on the course page of the website
Entry requirements
Entry requirements can be found on the course page of the website
What you will learn
You'll understand how children develop physically, socially, and emotionally in the early years.
You'll learn how to support children's communication, language, and literacy development.
You'll study safeguarding principles and how to keep children safe in a care setting.
You'll learn how to plan and deliver age-appropriate activities and learning experiences.
You'll understand the importance of working in partnership with parents and carers.
You'll explore equality, diversity, and inclusion in early years practice.
You'll develop knowledge of health, safety, and hygiene in childcare environments.
How you will learn
Learning takes place in the classroom at Bedford College, combining taught sessions with practical tasks and assignments. You'll be assessed through written assignments, observations of your practice, and knowledge checks. Assessment is ongoing throughout the course rather than through a single end exam.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. Bedford College will confirm anything else you need before you start.
Where next
Jobs you could do
Nursery practitioner: working with children aged 0 to 5 in a nursery setting.
Nursery assistant: supporting qualified staff in a day nursery.
Childminder assistant: helping a registered childminder with daily care.
Early years teaching assistant: supporting children in a Reception class.
Playgroup worker: leading or assisting sessions in a pre-school playgroup.
After-school club assistant: caring for children in wraparound childcare.
What you could study next
Level 3 Early Years Educator (NCFE or Cache): 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 Diploma for the Early Years Workforce: a broader qualification covering leadership and specialist practice.
Level 3 Supporting Teaching and Learning: if you want to move into a primary school environment as a teaching assistant.
