Level 2 Early Years Practitioner Course in Richmond upon Thames. Classes run at Parkshot, part-time during the day. The course runs over 35 weeks. You'll study child development from birth to 7 years, with a focus on working with children aged 0 to 5. The early years practitioner qualification meets Department for Education requirements, so employers in nurseries and early years settings recognise it. You must be 19 or over, have confident Level 1 English skills, and be working or volunteering in an early years setting for at least two days a week. Tuition, exam, and material costs apply.
Who this course is for
Are you looking to start a rewarding career working with young children? This Level 2 Diploma will give you the knowledge and skills you need to succeed in Early Years education. You'll learn about child development from birth to 7 years, with a focus on practical skills for working with children aged 0-5. This qualification meets the Department for Education (DfE) requirements, setting you up for a fulfilling career.
Entry requirements
You must be 19 or over on 31st August prior to the course start date. You need confident Level 1 English skills. You must be working or volunteering in an Early Years setting for a minimum of two days per week (minimum of 12 hours). You need to be able to attend your setting before the children arrive or after they have left. Please apply online or attend one of our Open Days. This course requires an interview.
What you will learn
You'll study child development from birth to 7 years old.
You'll learn how to support children's learning and play in an early years setting.
You'll develop practical skills for working with children aged 0 to 5.
You'll understand how to observe and assess young children's progress.
You'll learn about safeguarding and keeping children safe.
You'll explore how to work with parents, carers, and other professionals.
You'll gain knowledge of health, wellbeing, and care routines for young children.
How you will learn
Learning takes place in the classroom at Parkshot, alongside your time in an early years setting. You'll be assessed through a combination of written assignments, observations in your workplace setting, and professional discussions. Because this is a work-based diploma, your practice in the setting is a core part of how your skills are assessed. An interview is required before you start.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. Parkshot will confirm anything else you need before you start.
Where next
Jobs you could do
Nursery practitioner. Support children's learning in a nursery setting.
Early years educator. Work in a nursery, pre-school, or children's centre.
Nursery assistant. Assist qualified staff with daily childcare and activities.
Childminder's assistant. Support a registered childminder in a home setting.
Playgroup worker. Lead or assist sessions in a community playgroup.
Reception class teaching assistant. Support children in the first year of school.
What you could study next
Level 3 Early Years Educator. This is the qualification recognised in statutory staffing ratios for nursery work. It opens the door to leading a room and taking on more responsibility.
Level 3 Diploma for the Children and Young People's Workforce. Broadens your skills across a wider age range.
Level 3 Award in Paediatric First Aid. Often required or preferred by employers in early years settings.
