Free Level 2 The Early Years Practitioner Course in Leigh. Classes run at Wigan and Leigh College Leigh Campus. You'll need a minimum of 5 GCSEs graded 9 - 3 or equivalent, including English or maths, to enrol. The course covers the knowledge, skills, and behaviours needed to support young children from birth to five years in childcare settings. Work placements run alongside your classroom study. You'll also need a clear DBS check to work in the sector. The course runs full-time over 35 weeks.
Who this course is for
If you want a rewarding career working in a childcare setting we have number of routes for you to follow. This course will provide you knowledge, skills and behaviours required to work in this area. This qualification will consider you qualified to support young children from birth to 5 years. This course is specifically for adults. You will need to have a clear DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service) to work in the childcare sector. Work placements will supplement your studies, and our industry professional tutors will help you to maximise your full potential.
Entry requirements
A minimum of 5 GCSE subjects graded 9-3 or equivalent including English or maths.
What you will learn
You'll develop knowledge of child development from birth to five years.
You'll learn how to support children's learning and play in early years settings.
You'll practise safeguarding and child protection procedures.
You'll understand how to work with parents and carers to support children's wellbeing.
You'll learn about health, safety, and welfare in childcare environments.
You'll build skills in observing and assessing young children's progress.
You'll gain hands-on experience through work placements in childcare settings.
How you will learn
You'll study in the classroom at Wigan and Leigh College Leigh Campus, with work placements in childcare settings running alongside your course. Assessment combines practical observation in placement, written assignments, and knowledge-based tasks. You'll be assessed on your ability to apply skills and understanding in a real childcare environment.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. Wigan and Leigh College Leigh Campus will confirm anything else you need before you start. You will need a clear DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service) check before beginning your work placement.
Where next
Jobs you could do
Nursery practitioner: supporting children's learning and play in a nursery
Nursery assistant: day-to-day care of children aged birth to five
Childminder: registered home-based care for young children
Early years key worker: leading care and development for a group of children
Pre-school assistant: supporting children in playgroup or pre-school settings
Creche worker: providing supervised childcare in leisure or community venues
What you could study next
Level 3 Early Years Educator (various awarding bodies): the qualification recognised in statutory staffing ratios for nursery work. This is the natural next step if you want to take on greater responsibility in an early years setting.
Level 3 Diploma in Childcare and Education: broadens your knowledge across the sector and can support progression into supervisory roles.
Early Childhood Studies degree: for those considering a move into teaching, management, or specialist early years roles.
