Free Level 2 Working with Children in Early Years and Primary Settings Course in Stratford-upon-Avon. Classes run at Stratford-upon-Avon College, full-time during the day, over one year. You'll study in the classroom and gain hands-on experience through a vocational placement in an early years or primary setting. The course covers child development, safeguarding, and supporting learning across early years and primary environments. Entry requires two GCSEs at grade 3 or above, including English Language, or an equivalent combination of GCSEs and Functional Skills English.
Who this course is for
Studying the NCFE CACHE Level2 Technical Certificate in Working with Children in Early Years and Primary Settings is versatile and rewarding. It will be the start of your studies for a career in Early Years. The learners are taught in the classroom and develop their skills and experiences within their vocational placement settings. Successful completion of the course can open up opportunities to go on to obtain employment within the sector or do further study in areas such as Early Years or Health and Social Care. The course provides valuable vocational experience and gives an insight into working with a wide range of ages of children.
Entry requirements
2 GCSEs at grade D / grade 3 or above including English Language, or; 2 GCSEs at grade D / grade 3 or above and Level 1 or 2 Functional Skills English, or; Level 1 qualification in a relevant vocational subject and either GCSE English Language at grade D / grade 3 or above or Level 1 or 2 Functional Skills English.
What you will learn
You'll develop knowledge of child development from birth through primary school age.
You'll learn how to support children's learning and play in early years and primary settings.
You'll understand safeguarding principles and how to keep children safe.
You'll explore how to support children's health, wellbeing, and personal care needs.
You'll learn how to work with parents, carers, and other professionals.
You'll build practical skills through a vocational placement in a real childcare or school setting.
You'll study how to observe and assess children's progress and development.
How you will learn
You'll learn through classroom sessions at Stratford-upon-Avon College, combined with a vocational placement in an early years or primary setting where you apply your skills in practice. Assessment includes written assignments and evidence gathered from your placement. Your placement experience forms a core part of the qualification, giving you direct experience working alongside children and practitioners.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. Stratford-upon-Avon College 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
Nursery assistant: day-to-day childcare in a private or maintained nursery
Early years teaching assistant: supporting children in Reception or Year 1
Primary school teaching assistant: working alongside teachers in a classroom
Playworker: leading play sessions in after-school or holiday clubs
Childminder: providing home-based childcare (requires separate registration with Ofsted)
What you could study next
Level 3 Early Years Educator (CACHE or equivalent): the qualification recognised in statutory staffing ratios for nursery work, and the standard next step for those wanting a senior practitioner or room leader role.
Level 3 Supporting Teaching and Learning in Schools: suited to those whose placement experience pointed them toward primary school work.
Level 3 Education and Training: for those interested in moving into a training or mentoring role within the sector.
