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Begin your rewarding career in early years childcare with comprehensive knowledge and understanding of babies and young children from birth to 7 years. This qualification meets Department for Education criteria and leads directly to employment as a qualified Early Years Practitioner.
This comprehensive diploma provides you with the knowledge and understanding of babies and young children from birth to 7 years of age, with applied knowledge specifically focused on the early years from 0-5 years. The qualification content meets the Department for Education's Level 2 full and relevant criteria for a Level 2 Early Years Practitioner in the workforce.
Upon successful completion, you can enter the workforce immediately as a qualified Level 2 Early Years Practitioner or continue your studies for a Level 3 Diploma to achieve Early Years Educator status. This qualification is specifically designed for those passionate about supporting young children's development during their most formative years.
This diploma is ideal for anyone aged 16 or over who wants to work with children between birth and 5 years and gain knowledge of working with children up to 7 years. Perfect for school leavers interested in childcare, career changers seeking a rewarding profession, parents wanting to formalise their childcare knowledge, volunteers in early years settings, and those seeking stable employment in a growing sector. No previous experience or qualifications in working with children are required.
The diploma consists of fourteen mandatory units totalling 37 credits, covering all essential aspects of early years practice from safeguarding and health to child development and educational programming.
Roles and responsibilities of the Early Years Practitioner, equality and diversity, health and safety, and safeguarding, protection and welfare of babies and young children.
Understanding how to support children's development, care routines for babies and young children, and supporting wellbeing for healthy lifestyles.
Supporting planning and delivery of activities, promoting purposeful play opportunities, educational programmes, and physical activity for children.
Supporting the needs of babies and young children with Special Educational Needs and Disability, creating inclusive learning environments.
Promoting positive behaviour in Early Years Settings, partnership working in the early years, and supporting transitions including school readiness.
This qualification provides immediate access to employment opportunities in the early years sector and creates a clear pathway for career advancement to senior and specialist roles within childcare and education.
Qualify for Level 2 ratio positions working under supervision in various early years settings:
Progress to higher-level qualifications and leadership roles in early years:
Assessment combines theoretical knowledge with practical skills demonstration through a portfolio of evidence. Knowledge-based outcomes can be assessed through various methods, while skills-based outcomes must be achieved through direct observation in real work environments.
You will need to be working, volunteering, or undertaking a practical placement to demonstrate competence in both knowledge and skills. We recommend completing 250 placement hours whilst undertaking this qualification to ensure comprehensive practical experience with babies and young children.
Our placement support team works closely with local nurseries, schools, and early years settings to arrange suitable placements for students. We provide full guidance on professional conduct, safeguarding requirements, and maximising your learning experience during placement.