Level 2 Early Years Practitioner Course at Fareham College

CostFREE
Duration1 year
LevelLevel 2
DeliveryClassroom based
Start6 Sep 2027
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, over 43 weeks. 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 GCSE English and maths grades 3 to 9. This course is designed for learners aged 16 to 18, or up to 24 with an EHCP. You'll cover child development, safeguarding, and supporting learning in early years settings, building the knowledge and skills to work as a nursery practitioner. NCFE Technical Occupational Entry for the Early Years Practitioner Diploma with certificate.

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) and positive progress towards GCSE English and maths.

This full-time course is designed for young people aged 16-18 (or up to 24 if supported with an EHCP).

Note: There is a mandatory requirement for you to have a Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check in order to attend work placement. You must provide three forms of ID.

What you will learn

  • You'll understand how children develop from birth to five years old.
  • You'll learn how to support children's learning and play in early years settings.
  • You'll study safeguarding and child protection responsibilities.
  • You'll explore how to work with parents and carers effectively.
  • You'll learn about health, safety, and wellbeing in childcare environments.
  • You'll develop knowledge of inclusive practice and supporting children with additional needs.

How you will learn

You'll learn through classroom-based sessions at Fareham College, combining taught lessons with practical activities. Assessment includes written assignments, observations, and evidence gathered from placement or practical tasks in early years settings. You'll build a portfolio of evidence alongside your classroom work to demonstrate your skills and knowledge throughout the course.

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: working with children aged 0 to 5 in nurseries.
  • Nursery assistant: supporting qualified staff in early years settings.
  • Childcare worker: caring for young children in day nurseries or crèches.
  • Playgroup assistant: supporting structured play sessions for young children.
  • Early years teaching assistant: helping in Reception classes in primary schools.

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 greater responsibility in an early years setting.
  • Level 3 Diploma for the Early Years Workforce: a broader qualification covering leadership and specialist practice.
  • T Level in Education and Early Years: a technical qualification combining classroom study with an industry placement.

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