Free Level 2 Early Years Practitioner Course in Oldham

CostFREE
Duration588 hours
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 Oldham. Classes run at Oldham College, full-time during the day. To join, you'll need a minimum of four GCSEs at grade D/3 or above, including maths and English, or a Level 1 vocational qualification with GCSE grade D/3 in both maths and English. Functional Skills Level 1 in English and maths is also accepted. The course runs for 588 hours and covers the knowledge and practical skills needed to support children's learning and development in early years settings.

Who this course is for

All Learners

Entry requirements

Minimum of 4 GCSEs at grade D/3 including mathsand English or a vocational qualification Level 1, plus GCSE grade D/3 in both maths and English. English & maths Functional Skills Level 1 will be accepted as an alternative to GCSEs.

What you will learn

  • You'll develop knowledge of child development from birth to five years old.
  • You'll learn how to support children's play, learning, and communication.
  • You'll understand how to keep children safe and promote their health and wellbeing.
  • You'll explore how to work in partnership with parents and carers.
  • You'll learn about safeguarding responsibilities and early years legislation.
  • You'll build skills in observing and assessing children's progress.
  • You'll understand how to support children with additional needs.

How you will learn

You'll learn through classroom sessions at Oldham College, combining taught input with practical activities. Assessment includes written assignments, observations, and evidence gathered from work placements in early years settings. You'll build a portfolio of evidence throughout the course to demonstrate your competence and knowledge.

What you will need to bring

The centre will provide most materials. Oldham 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. Day-to-day care and activities for young children.
  • Early years teaching assistant. Support learning in Reception and pre-school classes.
  • Childminder. Provide registered childcare in a home setting.
  • Playgroup worker. Lead play sessions for pre-school age children.
  • After-school club assistant. Care for children outside school hours.

What you could study next

  • Level 3 Early Years Educator. The qualification recognised in statutory staffing ratios for nursery work. A natural next step if you want to take on greater responsibility in an early years setting.
  • Level 3 Diploma for the Early Years Workforce. Broadens your knowledge and opens roles as a room leader or senior practitioner.
  • Level 5 Early Childhood Studies. For those considering a move into management or specialist early years roles.

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