Free Level 2 Mental Health in the Early Years Course in Bedford. Classes run at Bedford College on a part-time daytime basis, making it manageable alongside other commitments. The course runs over 6 months and covers how to recognise, support, and respond to mental health needs in young children. You'll explore child development, emotional wellbeing, and how to work with families and other professionals. This mental health in the early years qualification is awarded by NCFE. Completing it can support your work as a nursery practitioner or in other early years settings.
Who this course is for
Course Summary can be found on the course page of the website
Entry requirements
Entry requirements can be found on the course page of the website
What you will learn
You'll understand how mental health and emotional wellbeing develop in the early years.
You'll learn to recognise signs of mental health difficulties in young children.
You'll explore how attachment, trauma, and adverse experiences affect child development.
You'll develop strategies to support children's emotional wellbeing in early years settings.
You'll learn how to work with families to promote positive mental health.
You'll understand the roles of other professionals and how to refer children for further support.
You'll study relevant legislation and safeguarding responsibilities in early years practice.
How you will learn
Classes are delivered in person at Bedford College. You'll learn through tutor-led sessions, group discussion, and guided study. Assessment is through written assignments and portfolio evidence demonstrating your knowledge and understanding. There are no formal exams.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. Bedford College will confirm anything else you need before you start.
Where next
Jobs you could do
Nursery practitioner: support children's wellbeing in nursery settings.
Early years educator: work in nurseries, pre-schools, or children's centres.
Nursery assistant: assist qualified staff in day-to-day childcare.
Family support worker: help families access early intervention services.
Children's centre worker: deliver programmes supporting young children and parents.
Special educational needs (SEN) support assistant: support children with additional needs in early years.
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 Award in Paediatric First Aid: often required alongside early years qualifications for work in childcare settings.
Level 3 Certificate in Understanding Autism: broadens your knowledge of additional needs in early years practice.
