Free Level 2 Early Years Practitioner Course in Bury. Evening classes run at Bury College, so you can fit study around your existing commitments. You'll need to secure a 12-hour weekly placement in a nursery or early years setting before the course starts. The course covers child development, safeguarding, inclusive practice, and supporting play and care routines for children from birth to seven. It runs for 33 weeks part-time and meets the Department for Education's Level 2 criteria for early years practitioners.
Who this course is for
Learners aged 19 and over
Entry requirements
Students required to complete an initial English assessment unless already holding an English certificate level 1 or above. 12 hour weekly placement in nursery or early school to be secured prior to course start. Essential students have a DBS for your placement; college can carry this out.
What you will learn
You'll understand the roles and responsibilities of an Early Years Practitioner.
You'll learn how to keep babies and young children safe and healthy in early years settings.
You'll apply equality, diversity, and inclusive practice in your work.
You'll know how to safeguard and protect babies and young children.
You'll support children's development and plan purposeful play activities.
You'll promote positive behaviour and well-being in early years settings.
You'll support children with Special Educational Needs and Disability (SEND).
You'll understand partnership working and how to prepare children for school.
How you will learn
Classes are delivered in person at Bury College on an evening, part-time basis over 33 weeks. The 16 units are assessed through coursework and practical evidence gathered during your 12-hour weekly nursery or early years placement. You'll need a DBS check in place before your placement begins. Bury College can arrange the DBS check for you.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. Bury College will confirm anything else you need before you start. You must arrange a 12-hour weekly placement in a nursery or early years setting before the course begins, and you'll need a valid DBS check. Bury College can carry out the DBS check if you don't already have one.
Where next
Jobs you could do
Nursery Practitioner: work in a nursery supporting children's daily care and learning.
Early Years Teaching Assistant: support learning in Reception or Year 1 classes.
Childminder: care for children in a home setting (registration required).
Playgroup Worker: support play and development in community settings.
After-School Club Assistant: supervise and engage children outside school hours.
Crèche Worker: provide short-term childcare in leisure or community venues.
What you could study next
Level 3 Early Years Educator: the qualification recognised in statutory staffing ratios for nursery work. A natural next step if you want to take on greater responsibility in an early years setting.
Level 3 Diploma for the Early Years Workforce: broader qualification covering leadership and specialist practice.
Level 3 Award in Paediatric First Aid: a practical add-on that many early years employers require or prefer.
