Free Level 2 The Children and Young People's Workforce Course. Work-based training at your workplace. You study while working or volunteering with children, building competence directly in your role. The course covers child development, safeguarding, communication, and supporting children's wellbeing. It typically takes 18 months to complete. The children and young people's workforce qualification is awarded by City and Guilds and is recognised by employers in nursery and youth work settings. To enrol, you'll need experience working with children and a commitment to the role.
Who this course is for
These qualifications are designed for learners who want to develop a career as a childminder, youth worker, nursery nurse or nursery manager.
You must be working or volunteering with children as some of the units are competence-based — that means you have to show that you are able to do certain things in practice in order to pass.
Entry requirements
Experience of working with children, basic knowledge of Childcare.
You must demonstrate commitment and excellent interpersonal skills as you will be regarded as the adult in a child’s environment.
What you will learn
You'll develop your understanding of child and young person development
You'll learn how to support children's communication, language, and literacy
You'll apply safeguarding principles and know how to respond to welfare concerns
You'll build skills in supporting positive behaviour in children and young people
You'll learn how to work in partnership with parents, carers, and other professionals
You'll understand equality, diversity, and inclusive practice in childcare settings
You'll demonstrate competence in your day-to-day work with children through assessed practice
How you will learn
Assessment is competence-based. You'll be observed in your workplace to show you can carry out tasks in practice. You'll also complete knowledge-based units, which may involve written assignments or questions. A trained assessor will visit you at work and review evidence you gather from your role. You need to be working or volunteering with children throughout the course.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. Bosco Centre will confirm anything else you need before you start.
Where next
Jobs you could do
Nursery practitioner: supporting children's learning and care in a nursery
Childminder: providing registered childcare in a home setting
Youth support worker: working with young people in community or charity settings
Nursery nurse: hands-on care and early education for under-fives
Early years teaching assistant: supporting learning in Reception or pre-school
Playworker: leading play activities in after-school or holiday clubs
What you could study next
Level 3 Diploma for the Early Years Educator: the qualification recognised in statutory nursery staffing ratios. Required if you want to count as a qualified practitioner in a nursery setting.
Level 3 Certificate in Youth Work: for those moving into structured youth work roles.
Level 3 Award in Childcare and Education: a shorter route to deepen knowledge in early years practice.
