Free Level 2 Early Years Practitioner Course in Fareham

CostFREE
Duration43 weeks
LevelLevel 2
DeliveryClassroom based
Start7 Sep 2026
Study modeFull-time
AttendanceDaytime
Awarding bodyNCFE awarding body

About this course

Free Level 2 Early Years Practitioner Course in Fareham. Classes run at Fareham College, full-time during the day. This free early years practitioner course runs for 43 weeks and covers child development, safeguarding, and supporting learning in early years settings. To join, you'll need four GCSEs at grades 3 to 9 including English and maths, or a relevant Level 1 qualification at merit or distinction with equivalent English and maths. The course is designed for learners aged 16 to 18 years old, or up to 24 years old with an EHCP.

Who this course is for

Full time learners who are 16-18 years old

Entry requirements

You will need four GCSEs at grades 3-9, or equivalent (including English and maths) OR A relevant Level 1 qualification (merit or distinction grade) including GCSE English and maths grades 3-9, or equivalent.This full-time course is designed for young people aged 16-18 (or up to 24 if supported with an EHCP).

What you will learn

  • You'll develop knowledge of child development from birth to five years old.
  • You'll learn how to support children's play, learning, and communication.
  • You'll understand safeguarding responsibilities and how to keep children safe.
  • You'll explore how to work with parents, carers, and other professionals.
  • You'll learn about health, wellbeing, and nutrition in early years settings.
  • You'll develop skills in observing and assessing children's progress.
  • You'll understand equality, diversity, and inclusion in childcare practice.

How you will learn

You'll learn through classroom sessions at Fareham College, combining taught lessons with practical activities. Assessment includes written assignments, observations, and portfolio work that demonstrates your knowledge and skills. You'll also complete a work placement in an early years setting as part of the course, giving you hands-on experience alongside your classroom learning.

What you will need to bring

The centre will provide most materials. Fareham College will confirm anything else you need before you start.

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Nursery practitioner. Support children's learning and development in a nursery.
  • Nursery assistant. Help qualified staff in a day nursery or preschool setting.
  • Childminder's assistant. Work alongside a registered childminder at home.
  • Early years teaching assistant. Support children in a Reception or Year 1 class.
  • Playgroup worker. Lead or assist sessions in a community playgroup.

What you could study next

  • Level 3 Early Years Educator. This is the qualification recognised in statutory staffing ratios for nursery work, and the natural next step after Level 2.
  • Level 3 Diploma for the Early Years Workforce. Broadens your knowledge and opens roles with greater responsibility in early years settings.
  • Level 3 Teaching Assistant qualification. If you want to move into school-based support roles.

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