Free Level 2 Early Years Practitioner Course in Bury Saint Edmunds. Classes run at West Suffolk College, full-time over one year. You'll study the development, care and education of babies and young children from birth to seven years old. Entry requires Grade 4 GCSE English or a Level 2 Functional Skills English qualification. You'll also need to be working toward Grade 4 Maths or Level 2 Functional Skills Maths. The course counts toward the Level 2 staffing ratio in early years settings, meeting the government's November 2021 requirements for English and maths in the sector.
Who this course is for
The Early Years Practitioner Level 2 Diploma is a firm foundation in providing you with the principal skills needed to be responsible for the development, care and education of children in the Early Years sector. The aim of this qualification is to provide you with the knowledge and understanding of babies and young children from birth to seven years of age.Upon successful completion of this qualification, it will allow you to count towards the Level 2 ratio as a qualified Level 2 Early Years Practitioner within the Early Years Workforce in a variety of roles such as nursery practitioner, classroom assistant and pre-school practitioner, or continue to study for a Level 3 Diploma holding Early Years Educator status.
Entry requirements
Entry is by interview. Applicants will need a minimum of Grade 4 English GCSE or Level 2 Functional skill and working towards Grade 4 Maths or Maths Level 2 Functional skill.Government mandate from November 2021 states employees will need to have maths and English at either Functional Skills level 2, or GCSE grade 4 to be employed in this sector.Applicants will need to be organised and highly motivated to manage their own time effectively as this is a 5 day, full time course which requires 3 day
What you will learn
You'll develop knowledge of child development from birth to seven years old.
You'll learn how to support children's learning, play and exploration.
You'll understand how to safeguard and promote children's health and wellbeing.
You'll study how to work in partnership with parents, carers and other professionals.
You'll learn how to observe and assess children's progress.
You'll develop understanding of inclusive practice and equality in early years settings.
How you will learn
You'll study in the classroom at West Suffolk College five days a week. The course also includes placement days in an early years setting, giving you hands-on experience with children. Assessment is through a combination of written assignments, observations in the workplace, and professional discussions. You'll build a portfolio of evidence over the year to demonstrate your skills and knowledge.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. West Suffolk College will confirm anything else you need before you start.
Where next
Jobs you could do
Nursery practitioner. Support children's learning and daily care in a nursery.
Nursery assistant. Work alongside qualified staff in an early years setting.
Childminder's assistant. Support a registered childminder in a home setting.
Playgroup assistant. Help run sessions for young children in community settings.
Early years keyworker. Take responsibility for a small group of children's development.
What you could study next
Level 3 Early Years Educator. This is the qualification recognised in statutory staffing ratios for nursery room leader roles. It builds directly on your Level 2 Diploma.
Level 3 Diploma for the Early Years Workforce (Early Years Educator). A broader qualification covering leadership and specialist practice in early years settings.
Level 3 Supporting Teaching and Learning. If you want to move into school-based roles working with children aged 5 and over.
