Level 2 Early Years Practitioner Course in Lambeth – Lambeth College Clapham Campus

CostFREE
Duration36 weeks
LevelLevel 2
DeliveryClassroom based
Start7 Sep 2026
Study modeFull-time
AttendanceDaytime
Awarding bodyNCFE awarding body

About this course

Free Level 2 Early Years Practitioner Course in Lambeth. Classes run at Lambeth College Clapham Campus. This full-time daytime course runs for 36 weeks, covering the knowledge and practical skills needed to work with young children in early years settings. You'll study child development, safeguarding, communication, and how to support children's learning and wellbeing. Entry requires GCSEs at grade 2 or above, plus an interview. The level 2 early years practitioner qualification is awarded by NCFE.

Who this course is for

If you are looking for a rewarding career working with children in a nursery, school, or pre-school environment, or if you are already working in an early years setting and are looking to increase your knowledge and understanding, then look no further, because this could be the course for you.The Level 2 Diploma for the Early Years Practitioner will prepare you to work with babies and young children from birth to 7 years old, and teach you specialised knowledge of the early years setting of 0-5 years. You will develop your knowledge and understanding of a wide variety of topics that apply to early years settings, including the role and responsibilities of a practitioner; health and safety; safeguarding, protection, and welfare; supporting childrens development; supporting a healthy lifestyle; planning activities and purposeful play; and how to support the needs of babies and young children with special educational needs and disability.More than just increasing your knowledge of the theory and principles of early years practice, you will also develop your practical and applied skills by working, volunteering, or taking part in a practical placement in a suitable setting, as an important part of your assessment process.Successfully completing this qualification content meets the Department for Educations (DfE) Level 2 full criteria for a Level 2 Early Years Practitioner in the workforce.

Entry requirements

  • 2 GCSE qualifications at grades A*-D or 9-3, including English Language* Level 1 vocational qualification and a Level 1 English qualificationAdditional information:You are required to have a clear DBS check to enrol on this course.

What you will learn

  • You'll understand how young children grow, develop, and learn at different stages.
  • You'll learn how to support children's communication, language, and literacy.
  • You'll apply safeguarding principles and know how to keep children safe.
  • You'll plan and support activities that promote children's play and development.
  • You'll learn how to work with parents, carers, and other professionals.
  • You'll understand equality, diversity, and inclusion in early years settings.
  • You'll develop professional behaviours expected in childcare and nursery environments.

How you will learn

You'll learn through classroom-based sessions at Lambeth College Clapham Campus, combining taught lessons with practical tasks. Assessment includes written assignments, observations, and evidence of your knowledge and skills. The course also includes a placement element working with an employer, giving you hands-on experience in an early years setting alongside your classroom study.

What you will need to bring

The centre will provide most materials. Lambeth College Clapham Campus will confirm anything else you need before you start.

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Nursery practitioner: supporting children's learning and daily care in a nursery
  • Nursery assistant: working under a qualified practitioner in an early years setting
  • Childcare worker: providing care and activities for young children
  • Playgroup assistant: supporting children's play in community or pre-school settings
  • Early years teaching assistant: supporting children in Reception or pre-school classes
  • Creche worker: caring for young children in leisure or community facilities

What you could study next

  • Level 3 Early Years Educator: the qualification recognised in statutory staffing ratios for nursery work. Completing Level 3 allows you to count toward required staffing numbers in registered settings.
  • Level 3 Diploma for the Early Years Workforce (Early Years Educator): a widely held next step for those aiming to take on more responsibility in childcare.
  • T Level in Education and Early Years: a two-year programme combining classroom learning with substantial industry placement, suited to those wanting a deeper technical grounding.

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