Free Level 2 Early Years Practitioner Course in Birmingham. Classes run at James Watt College, full-time during the day. You'll build the knowledge and practical skills to support children from birth to age 7, with a focus on the early years (0 to 5). The course runs for 42 weeks and meets the Department for Education's criteria for a full and relevant Level 2 qualification in the sector. You'll need at least four GCSEs at grade 3 or above, including English and Maths, and a DBS check before your placement begins.
Who this course is for
Interested in working with babies and young children? This Level 2 Early
Years Practitioner course gives you the knowledge and practical experience to
support children from birth to age 7, with a focus on the early years (0�5). The
qualification meets the Department for Education�s criteria for a full and
relevant Level 2 qualification in the sector.
Entry requirements
You should be at least 16 years old and have a minimum of four GCSEs at grade
3 (D) or above, including English and Maths. A Disclosure and Barring Service
(DBS) check is required before starting your placement.
What you will learn
You'll learn how children develop from birth to age 7, covering physical, cognitive, and emotional milestones.
You'll understand how to support children's learning through play and planned activities.
You'll learn how to observe and assess children's progress in an early years setting.
You'll develop knowledge of safeguarding, child protection, and your responsibilities in a childcare role.
You'll learn how to support children's health, wellbeing, and personal care needs.
You'll understand how to work with parents, carers, and other professionals in an early years environment.
You'll gain practical experience working with young children through a placement in an early years setting.
How you will learn
You'll learn through classroom sessions at James Watt College, combined with a practical placement in an early years setting. Assessment includes written assignments, observations of your practice, and a portfolio of evidence built up over the course. The placement gives you hands-on experience working directly with children, which forms a core part of the qualification.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. James Watt College will confirm anything else you need before you start. You will need to complete a DBS check before your placement begins.
Where next
Jobs you could do
Nursery practitioner: supporting children's learning and care in a nursery
Nursery assistant: day-to-day care and activities for young children
Childminder assistant: supporting a registered childminder in a home setting
Early years teaching assistant: working alongside teachers in Reception or pre-school
Playgroup worker: leading or supporting sessions in a community playgroup
Creche worker: providing short-session 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. This is the next step if you want to take on greater responsibility in an early years setting.
Level 3 Diploma for the Early Years Practitioner (NCFE): builds directly on this Level 2 and deepens your practice with older children and more complex needs.
Level 3 Award in Paediatric First Aid: a short qualification many early years employers require or prefer.
