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Level 2 Early Years Practitioner Course at Southampton College

CostFREE
Duration1 year
LevelLevel 2
DeliveryClassroom based
Start6 Sep 2027
Study modeFull-time
AttendanceDaytime
Awarding bodyNCFE awarding body
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About this course

Free Level 2 Early Years Practitioner Course in Southampton. Classes run at Southampton College, full-time during the day, over 41 weeks. To join, you'll need four GCSEs at grades 3 to 9 (including English and maths), or a relevant Level 1 qualification at merit or distinction with GCSE English and maths at grades 3 to 9 or equivalent. This course is open to learners aged 16 to 18, or up to 24 with an EHCP. You'll develop the knowledge and practical skills needed to support children's learning and development in early years settings. NCFE Technical Occupational Entry for the Early Years Practitioner (Diploma) with certificate.

Who this course is for

Full time learners who are 16-18 years old

Entry requirements

You will need four GCSEs at grades 3-9, or equivalent (including English and maths) OR A relevant Level 1 qualification (merit or distinction grade) and positive progress towards GCSE English and maths.

This full-time course is designed for young people aged 16-18 (or up to 24 if supported with an EHCP).

Note: There is a mandatory requirement for you to have a Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check in order to attend work placement. You must provide three forms of ID.

What you will learn

  • You'll develop knowledge of child development from birth to five years.
  • You'll learn how to plan and support play and learning activities.
  • You'll understand how to keep children safe and promote their wellbeing.
  • You'll learn how to observe and assess children's progress.
  • You'll develop skills in working with parents, carers, and other professionals.
  • You'll understand safeguarding responsibilities in early years settings.
  • You'll learn how to support children with additional needs.

How you will learn

You'll learn through classroom-based sessions at Southampton College, combining taught lessons with practical activities. Assessment includes written assignments, observations of your practice, and knowledge-based tasks linked to the qualification requirements.

What you will need to bring

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

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Nursery practitioner: supporting children's learning in a nursery setting.
  • Nursery assistant: day-to-day care and activities for young children.
  • Early years teaching assistant: supporting children in a Reception class.
  • Childcare worker: working in a day nursery or children's centre.
  • Playgroup assistant: leading play sessions for pre-school children.

What you could study next

  • Level 3 Early Years Educator: the qualification recognised in statutory staffing ratios for nursery work. Completing Level 3 opens the door to working as a qualified practitioner counted in ratios.
  • Level 3 Diploma for the Early Years Workforce: a broader route covering leadership and practice in early years settings.
  • Level 3 Teaching Assistant Diploma: if you want to move into a school-based support role.
Apply on shcg.ac.uk →
Apply now →

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