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Free Level 2 Early Years Practitioner Course in Durham

CostFREE
Duration1 year
LevelLevel 2
DeliveryClassroom based
Start1 Sep 2026
Study modeFull-time
AttendanceDaytime
Awarding bodyNCFE awarding body
Apply now →

About this course

Free Level 2 Early Years Practitioner Course in Durham. Classes run at New College Durham, full-time during the day.

The course takes one year and covers child development from birth to seven years old. You'll build knowledge of babies and young children, including the early years range of birth to five. You'll also explore the roles and responsibilities of the course. The course requires four GCSEs at grade 3 or above to enrol.

You'll finish with a Level 2 Technical Occupational Entry for the Early Years Practitioner Diploma.

Who this course is for

Course may be subject to change.

Gain an in-depth understanding of how to support a child's development and the roles and responsibilities of an Early Years Practitioner.You will develop a knowledge and understanding of babies and young children, from birth to seven years of age, and early years (0�5 years).This early years course will prepare you for progression to Level 3 at New College Durham, or a relevant apprenticeship.

Entry requirements

Please refer to College website.

What you will learn

  • You'll learn how to support babies' and young children's development from birth to seven years old.
  • You'll understand the roles and responsibilities of an Early Years Practitioner.
  • You'll develop knowledge of early years practice covering the birth to five age range.
  • You'll learn how to observe and respond to children's needs.
  • You'll explore safeguarding and child protection principles.
  • You'll study communication and relationships with children, families, and colleagues.

How you will learn

You'll study in a classroom at New College Durham. Learning is delivered full-time during the day. Assessment is likely to include written assignments, observations, and practical tasks that reflect real childcare settings. You'll work through units covering child development, safeguarding, and practitioner responsibilities.

What you will need to bring

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

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Early Years Practitioner, supports children's learning and development in a nursery or early years setting.
  • Early Years Assistant, works alongside qualified staff in a childcare setting.
  • Nursery Assistant, helps care for and educate young children in a nursery.
  • Nursery Practitioner, delivers planned activities for children aged birth to five.
  • Playgroup Assistant, supports children's play and development in a community setting.

What you could study next

  • Level 3 Early Years Educator, the next step for those wanting to work as a qualified practitioner counted in statutory staffing ratios.
  • Early Years Apprenticeship at Level 3, earn while you learn and gain the same qualification in a workplace setting.
  • Level 3 Childcare and Education Diploma, broadens your knowledge across the childcare sector.
Apply on newcollegedurham.ac.uk →
Apply now →

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