Level 2 Early Years Practitioner Course in Maidenhead. Classes run at Berkshire College of Agriculture, full-time during the day. The course runs for 36 weeks and covers child development from birth to seven years old, with a focus on the early years range of birth to five. Alongside classroom learning, you'll need to secure a work placement to complete the qualification. This is a requirement for your licence to practise in the early years sector. You'll need four GCSEs at grade 2 or above, including English and Maths, plus a DBS check.
Who this course is for
The aim of this qualification is to provide learners with the knowledge and understanding of babies and young children from birth to seven years of age with applied knowledge in the early years, 0-5 years. This course will provide an opportunity for those who want to work in the Early Years sector to achieve a Level 2 qualification. In addition to classroom learning, the student will be required to secure a work placement to achieve their licence to practice within the Early Years industry. We also run an onsite Intergenerational Cafe, where students work with local school children and the local Altzhimers Dementia Society visitors and Carers. The course will be delivered with classroom learning which links Early Years practice with theory in combination with industry placement throughout the year totalling 315 hours. In addition to practical and theoretical learning, the course will additionally involve guest speakers and various trips. Why choose to study at BCA? BCA has much to offer including: A team of qualified and supportive staff An on-site Play Bay where students get the opportunity to simulate Early Years practice Trips to a Forest School Opportunities to visit specialist schools Opportunities to obtain First Aid qualifications
Entry requirements
Four GCSEs at grade 2 and above-including English and Maths. A Disclosure Barring Service check is also required.
What you will learn
You'll develop knowledge of child development from birth to seven years.
You'll learn how to support babies and young children's learning and wellbeing in the 0 - 5 age range.
You'll understand safeguarding responsibilities and how to keep children safe.
You'll explore how to plan and support play and early learning activities.
You'll build applied knowledge of working practice in early years settings.
You'll learn how to work alongside parents, carers, and other professionals.
How you will learn
You'll learn through classroom sessions at Berkshire College of Agriculture, covering the knowledge and understanding required for early years practice. Alongside this, you'll complete a work placement in an early years setting to apply what you've learned and achieve your licence to practise. Assessment is through a combination of coursework and practical evidence gathered during your placement.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. Berkshire College of Agriculture will confirm anything else you need before you start. You will need to arrange a work placement in an early years setting as part of the course, and a DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service) check is required before you begin.
Where next
Jobs you could do
Nursery practitioner: working with children aged 0 - 5 in a nursery setting.
Nursery assistant: supporting qualified staff in a day nursery.
Childcare worker: caring for young children in a private or community setting.
Early years teaching assistant: supporting learning in a Reception or pre-school class.
Playgroup assistant: helping run sessions for toddlers and pre-school children.
Crèche worker: providing childcare in leisure, community, or workplace crèches.
What you could study next
Level 3 Early Years Educator: the qualification recognised in statutory staffing ratios for nursery work. This is the standard next step for practitioners wanting to take on greater responsibility and count toward room ratios.
Level 3 Diploma for the Early Years Workforce: a broader qualification covering leadership and specialist practice.
T Level in Education and Early Years: a two-year full-time qualification combining study with an industry placement, suited to those considering a career in teaching or early years leadership.
