Free Level 2 Early Years Practitioner Course in Macclesfield

CostFREE
Duration35 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 Macclesfield. Classes run at Macclesfield College, full-time during the day. You'll need four GCSEs at grade 3 or above, including English or maths, or an appropriate Level 1 qualification to enrol. The course runs for 35 weeks and covers the knowledge and skills needed to care for and support the learning and development of children aged 0 to 7. It's a strong starting point for anyone pursuing an early years practitioner qualification.

Who this course is for

This is a vocational programme which will develop the knowledge, understanding and skills when caring for and supporting the learning and development of children aged 0-7 years.

Entry requirements

For this course you will need to have achieved one of the following: 4 GCSEs at grade 3 or above including English or maths or an appropriate Level 1 qualification.

What you will learn

  • You'll develop knowledge of how children aged 0 to 7 learn and develop.
  • You'll build skills in supporting children's physical, emotional, and social wellbeing.
  • You'll learn how to plan and deliver activities that support early learning.
  • You'll understand safeguarding responsibilities and how to keep children safe.
  • You'll practise observing and recording children's progress.
  • You'll explore how to work with parents, carers, and other professionals.
  • You'll learn about health, hygiene, and safe environments for young children.

How you will learn

You'll study through classroom-based sessions at Macclesfield College, five days a week during the day. Assessment is through a combination of coursework, observations, and practical tasks that demonstrate your skills and knowledge. You'll build a portfolio of evidence throughout the course showing your competence in working with young children.

What you will need to bring

The centre will provide most materials. Macclesfield College will confirm anything else you need before you start.

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Nursery practitioner: support children's learning in a nursery setting.
  • Nursery assistant: assist qualified staff in early years rooms.
  • Childminder assistant: support a registered childminder at home.
  • Pre-school assistant: work with children aged 2 to 5 in a pre-school.
  • Early years teaching assistant: support learning in a Reception class.
  • Playgroup worker: lead or assist sessions in community play settings.

What you could study next

  • Level 3 Early Years Educator: the qualification recognised in statutory staffing ratios for nursery work. Required if you want to count as a qualified practitioner in a setting's staff numbers.
  • Level 3 Diploma for the Early Years Workforce (Early Years Educator): a broader route covering the same regulated role.
  • Level 3 Award in Paediatric First Aid: often required alongside an Early Years Educator qualification for work in registered settings.

Related courses at Macclesfield College

More courses near you