Free Level 2 Early Years Practitioner Course. Study online. You study at your own pace, so the course fits around your work or volunteering hours in an early years setting. You need to be working or volunteering regularly with children during the course, as part of the qualification involves demonstrating practical skills in your setting. The course covers the knowledge and skills needed to work as an Early Years Practitioner at Level 2. It typically takes around 147 hours to complete.
Who this course is for
This course is for anyone who wants to start a career in the early years sector, working with children from birth to 5, and gaining knowledge of working with children up to age 7. It's suitable for school leavers, adults changing careers, or volunteers. This qualification is a full and relevant license to practice at Level 2, allowing you to count towards the staff-to-child ratio in an early years setting.
Entry requirements
You should be aged 19+ (some 16+ can be considered) and eligible to study in the UK. You will need to meet with a Learning Adviser and complete a short English skills check to make sure you are joining the right course for you. You will need to provide a valid I.D and may be asked for proof of earnings/employment status for funding purposes.
What you will learn
You'll develop knowledge of child development from birth to five years.
You'll learn how to support children's learning and play in an early years setting.
You'll understand safeguarding responsibilities and how to keep children safe.
You'll explore how to support children's health, wellbeing, and personal care needs.
You'll learn how to work in partnership with parents and carers.
You'll build understanding of the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) framework.
You'll demonstrate practical skills directly in your early years setting.
How you will learn
You study through Devon Adult Education's online teaching platform, with introductory support available to help you get started. Assessment combines knowledge-based tasks completed online with skills-based evidence gathered in your early years setting. You'll need to commit to around 2 to 3 hours of study per week. Both the knowledge and practical elements are assessed, so regular access to your setting throughout the course is essential.
What you will need to bring
You'll need regular access to a computer, tablet, or smartphone to use the online teaching platform. You also need to be in a paid or voluntary role in an early years setting (including childminding settings) throughout the course. Devon Adult Education 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 a nursery setting.
Early years worker: supporting children's development in a preschool or playgroup.
Childminder assistant: helping a registered childminder with daily care and activities.
Nursery room assistant: supporting a room leader in a day nursery.
After-school club assistant: working with younger primary-age children in wraparound care.
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 a setting.
Level 3 Diploma for the Early Years Workforce: a broader qualification covering leadership and specialist practice.
Level 3 Award in Paediatric First Aid: often required or expected alongside childcare qualifications by employers.
