Free Level 2 Early Years Practitioner Course in Worcester. Classes run at Heart of Worcestershire College, full-time during the day. You'll study child development, promoting play, and the principles of early years practice. Work experience in a real childcare setting is a core part of the course, alongside a simulated nursery environment at the college. Entry requires 4 GCSEs at grade 3 or above, including English and maths. The course takes one year to complete.
Who this course is for
This qualification will help you turn your dream job into reality. Our course offers you the practical skills and knowledge that you need for working within the childcare and education sectors. , , During this course you will study aspects of childcare including: Patterns of Child Development, Promoting Children's Development Through Play and The Principles of Early Years Practice., , A key part of this course is work experience where you can learn practical skills, gain an understanding of the
Entry requirements
Applicants must have 4 GCSEs grade 3 and above (A*- D), including English and maths. For students wanting to progress with their childcare qualification at level 3 they will need to have achieved their GCSE in English and maths at a grade C (Grade 4/5 and above) during their course. Entry is subject to a satisfactory reference and interview. , , Entry decisions will be discretionary at interview. Students will continually be assessed through probation period to ensure they are on the correct lev
What you will learn
You'll explore patterns of child development and what they mean in practice.
You'll learn how to promote children's development through play.
You'll study the principles of early years practice.
You'll develop practical childcare skills through a supervised work placement.
You'll understand how to support children's learning in an early years setting.
How you will learn
You'll learn through classroom sessions, online resources, and library facilities at the college. A simulated nursery environment supports hands-on practice. Work experience in a childcare setting is a structured part of the course, letting you apply classroom learning directly. Assessment is ongoing throughout the course, including a probation period to make sure you're working at the right level.
What you will need to bring
You'll need access to a digital device for online learning resources. A uniform is required for your work placement. Heart of Worcestershire College will confirm anything else you need before you start.
Where next
Jobs you could do
Nursery practitioner: working with children in a nursery setting
Nursery assistant: supporting qualified staff in early years rooms
Childcare worker: day nurseries, crèches, and children's centres
Early years teaching assistant: supporting learning in Reception classes
Playgroup assistant: leading or supporting structured play sessions
After-school club assistant: caring for children outside school hours
What you could study next
Level 3 Early Years Educator (Diploma): the qualification recognised in statutory staffing ratios for nursery work. To progress to Level 3 at Heart of Worcestershire College, you'll need GCSE English and maths at grade 4 or above.
Level 3 Supporting Teaching and Learning: if you want to move into a school-based role as a teaching assistant.
T Level in Education and Early Years: a two-year technical qualification for those aiming toward a degree in education or childcare.
