Free Level 2 Early Years Practitioner Course in Harlow. Classes run at Harlow College, full-time during the day, over one year. You'll study child development from birth, covering brain development, physical growth, and social skills. Placement is a core part of the course. You'll carry out planned observations of children, plan nursery environments indoors and outdoors, and lead play activities alongside setting practitioners. You'll need at least 4 GCSEs at Grade 2 or above, including English Language at Grade 3 or above.
Who this course is for
This course will provide you with a good knowledge of the development of babies and young children. You will gain an understanding of the stages and sequences of brain development, physical development and social skills. There is an opportunity to progress onto Level 3, (with the relevant GCSE's) or work as a qualified level 2 practitioner.
Entry requirements
4 GCSEs at Grades 2-4 English language grade must be Grade 3 or above
What you will learn
You'll understand the stages and sequences of brain development, physical development, and social skills in babies and young children.
You'll learn the roles and responsibilities of an early years practitioner in a professional setting.
You'll carry out planned observations of children on placement, recording their growth and development.
You'll plan and prepare nursery environments, both indoor and outdoor, to support children's learning.
You'll lead play activities and work in partnership with practitioners in a real placement setting.
You'll study health and safety requirements for babies and young children in early years settings.
You'll learn about safeguarding, child protection, and welfare responsibilities.
How you will learn
You'll learn through classroom sessions at Harlow College and through placement in an early years setting. On placement, you'll complete planned observations, prepare environments, and lead activities. Assessment includes practical work in your placement setting alongside written coursework. Guest speakers, including a safeguarding officer and nursery managers, contribute to your learning throughout the year.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. Harlow College will confirm anything else you need before you start.
Where next
Jobs you could do
Nursery practitioner: working with children from birth to five in a nursery
Nursery assistant: supporting qualified staff in an early years setting
Childcare worker: providing care and learning activities in a daycare setting
Early years keyworker: taking responsibility for a small group of children
Playgroup assistant: supporting structured play sessions for young children
Bank staff nursery worker: flexible cover across nursery settings
What you could study next
Level 3 Early Years Educator: the qualification recognised in statutory staffing ratios for nursery work. Harlow College offers this route for learners who achieve English and maths at Grade 4 or above during their Level 2 studies.
Level 3 Diploma in Childcare and Education: a broader qualification covering early years and childcare settings.
T Level in Education and Early Years: a two-year technical qualification combining classroom study with a substantial industry placement.
