Free Level 2 Early Years Practitioner Course. Work-based training at your workplace. You study while working in a childcare setting, putting your learning into practice from day one. No entry requirements are needed to start. The course covers child development, safeguarding, communication, and supporting children's play and learning. It typically takes 8 months to complete. There are no formal prerequisites; Milton Keynes Christian Foundation will carry out an initial assessment to confirm the course is the right fit and to plan your learning.
Who this course is for
Young people who are interested in persuing a career in childcare.
Entry requirements
No entry requirements
What you will learn
You'll understand how children develop from birth to five years.
You'll learn how to support children's play, learning, and communication.
You'll apply safeguarding principles and know how to keep children safe.
You'll develop skills in observing and assessing children's progress.
You'll learn how to work in partnership with parents and carers.
You'll understand equality, diversity, and inclusion in early years settings.
You'll practise health, safety, and hygiene routines in a childcare environment.
How you will learn
This is a work-based qualification, so your learning and assessment happen in your childcare workplace. Assessment typically includes observations of your practice, written assignments, and a portfolio of evidence gathered on the job. You'll be supported by a workplace assessor who will visit you in your setting and review your progress throughout the 8 months.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. Milton Keynes Christian Foundation will confirm anything else you need before you start.
Where next
Jobs you could do
Nursery practitioner: supporting children's learning in a nursery room.
Nursery assistant: day-to-day care and activities for young children.
Childcare worker: working in a private or community childcare setting.
Playgroup assistant: supporting structured play sessions for under-fives.
Creche worker: providing short-session childcare in leisure or community venues.
Early years key worker: taking responsibility for a small group of children.
What you could study next
Level 3 Early Years Educator Diploma: the qualification recognised in statutory staffing ratios for nursery work. Required if you want to count as a qualified practitioner in a nursery setting.
Level 3 Diploma for the Early Years Workforce (Early Years Educator): an alternative Level 3 route with a similar outcome.
Level 3 Award in Paediatric First Aid: a short qualification many employers require alongside a childcare diploma.
