Free Level 2 Understanding Mental Health in the Early Years Course in Wandsworth. Classes run at South Thames College - Wandsworth Centre during the day, making it manageable alongside other commitments. Over one week, you'll explore how mental health affects young children, how to recognise signs of concern, and how to support children and families effectively. The course is relevant to anyone working or looking to work in nurseries, childcare settings, or early years education.
Who this course is for
Please see our website for full details www.stcg.ac.uk
Entry requirements
Please see our website for full details www.stcg.ac.uk
What you will learn
You'll explore what mental health means for babies and young children.
You'll identify factors that can affect a child's emotional wellbeing in the early years.
You'll recognise signs that a child may be experiencing mental health difficulties.
You'll understand how to support children's positive mental health in a childcare setting.
You'll learn how to communicate with families about mental health concerns sensitively.
You'll examine the role of the early years practitioner in promoting emotional resilience.
How you will learn
You'll learn through classroom-based sessions at South Thames College - Wandsworth Centre. Assessment is through written assignments and knowledge-based tasks that you complete as part of the course. There are no exams. Your tutor will guide you through the material during class time, and you'll be able to ask questions and discuss topics as you go.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. South Thames College - Wandsworth Centre will confirm anything else you need before you start.
Where next
Jobs you could do
Nursery Practitioner: support children's wellbeing in a nursery setting.
Early Years Educator: work in nurseries, pre-schools, or children's centres.
Childcare Assistant: assist in day nurseries or after-school clubs.
Playworker: support children's play and emotional development.
Family Support Worker: help families access early years services.
Teaching Assistant (Early Years): support children in Reception or Year 1.
What you could study next
Level 2 Diploma for the Early Years Practitioner: a broader qualification covering all aspects of early years practice, required for many nursery roles.
Level 3 Diploma for the Early Years Educator: the qualification recognised in statutory staffing ratios for nursery work. This is the main route if you want to qualify as a room leader or key person.
Level 3 Award in Safeguarding and Child Protection: deepens your knowledge of keeping children safe, valued alongside mental health awareness in childcare settings.
