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Diploma for the Early Years Practitioner - Level 2

Course code: P09813

Subject area: Health & Social Care

Study level: School Leaver

Course level: 2

Course details

Course time:

09:00 - 17:00

Days of week:

Monday to Friday

Course date:

7th Sept 2026 - 2nd Jul 2027

Course location:

Abingdon Campus

Contact details

Phone:

01235 555 585

Start your journey into a rewarding childcare career with our CACHE Level 2 Diploma – gain hands-on experience while learning how to support the development, wellbeing and education of babies and young children.
This nationally recognised qualification prepares you for employment in early years settings or progression to Level 3, with real-world placements and expert guidance every step of the way.
Are you passionate about working with babies and young children? This nationally recognised Level 2 Diploma is the perfect starting point for anyone aged 16-18 who wants to begin a rewarding career in childcare and early education. Designed to meet the Department for Education’s full and relevant criteria, this course equips you with the essential knowledge and practical skills to support children from birth to five years, with an understanding of development up to age seven.
Through a blend of classroom learning and hands-on experience, you’ll explore key areas such as safeguarding, child development, play, health and wellbeing, and inclusive practice. You’ll also complete a minimum of 250 hours in a real early years setting, giving you the confidence and competence to enter the workforce or progress to a Level 3 Early Years Educator qualification.
Whether you’re aiming to become a nursery assistant, classroom support worker or pre-school practitioner, this course opens the door to a fulfilling future. Join us and take the first step towards making a real difference in young children’s lives.
Course units
Summarised core content of the programme:

Child Development – Understand the stages of development from birth to seven years, including cognitive, physical, emotional, and social growth.

Safeguarding and Welfare – Learn how to protect and promote the welfare of babies and young children, including recognising signs of abuse and following safeguarding procedures.

Health and Safety – Gain knowledge and skills to maintain a safe and healthy environment for children, including managing risks and responding to accidents.

Equality, Diversity and Inclusion – Explore inclusive practices and how to support children from diverse backgrounds and with different needs.

Supporting Play and Learning – Plan and deliver purposeful play activities and educational programmes that support holistic development.

Care Routines – Learn how to support daily routines such as feeding, hygiene, rest, and sleep in line with children’s individual needs.

Nutrition and Healthy Lifestyles – Understand the importance of balanced diets, hydration, and physical activity for young children’s wellbeing.

Positive Behaviour – Promote positive behaviour and social skills through modelling and reinforcement strategies.

Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) – Support children with SEND through inclusive planning and partnership working.

Preparing for School – Help children transition smoothly to school by supporting early literacy, numeracy, and communication skills.

What next?
Upon successful completion of this qualification, learners can enter the workforce as a qualified Level 2 Early Years Practitioner or continue to study on the T Level Education and Early Years programme
Entry criteria
4 GCSES at grade 3 including 2 of English, Maths and Science, OR Level 1 pass in a related subject plus grade 3 in English or Maths, and both subjects must be at least grade 2 / Level 1 Functional Skills.
Fee information
As part of your course we may organise trips to assist you with your learning. Trips are optional, and you will not be penalised if you choose not to participate.

There are bursaries available to help you with other course costs. Call 01235 216 212 for more information.

The rules on fee reduction are complicated and we would encourage you to talk to our Admissions staff on 01235 216 400 to discuss your options. You can find more information on our Fees and Bursaries page - search "Fees and Bursaries" at the top of the page.

16-18 Fee:

£0.00

19+ Fee:

£0.00

19+ Reduced Fee:

£0.00

Qualifications received
NCFE CACHE Level 2 Diploma for the Early Years Practitioner