Level 2 Diploma for the Early Years Practitioner Summary

The aim of this qualification is to provide you with the knowledge and understanding of babies and young children from birth to 7 years, with the practical experience of industry placement working with children up to the age of 5 years, gaining the skills required to care for babies and young children in a professional manner. The qualification enables you to be able to gain your licence to practice at Level 2 and/or progress onto further study towards a level 3 qualification. During your studies you will have the opportunity to gain experience in working in a variety of early years settings, developing valuable skills and knowledge to support your chosen career choice including: teamwork and partnership building, professional and personal development, communication and evaluation skills, alongside conducting research, analysis and reflective skills by completing a two-day placement each week. You will also gain an insight into how the early years industry carries out its daily duties.

Entry Requirements

  • Six GCSEs grades 9– 2

Course Duration

1 years full-time

Specification

NCFE CACHE 

How you will study

The course is studied over one year, creating a portfolio of evidence for all fourteen units. Each unit comprises of knowledge and skills-based criteria. Knowledge is delivered by subject specialist teachers with industry experience and assignment-based work will be completed. Practical skills are gained through observation and application during your industry placement, required two days each week, with assessment by your workplace assessor. All units are internally assessed using a range of methods.

Component breakdown

You will study the following fourteen mandatory units: 

EYP1 – Roles and responsibilities of the Early Years Practitioner 

EYP 2 – Health and safety of babies and young children in the early years
EYP 3 – Equality, diversity, and inclusive practice in Early Years Settings   

EYP 4 – Safeguarding, protection and welfare of babies and young children in Early Years Settings

EYP 5 – Understand how to support children’s development   

EYP 6 – Support care routines for babies and young children 

EYP 7 – Support the planning and delivery of activities, purposeful play opportunities and educational programmes 

EYP 8 – Promote play in an Early Years Setting 

EYP 9 – Support well-being of babies and young children for healthy lifestyles 

EYP10 – Support babies and young children to be physically active 

EYP 11 – Support the needs of babies and young children with Special Educational Needs and Disability 

EYP 12 – Promote positive behaviour in Early Years Settings 

EYP 13 – Partnership working in the early years 

EYP 14 – Support the needs of the child in preparing for school 

This qualification allows progression on to the Level 3 Early Years Educator qualifications and other relevant Level 3 courses relating to early years and childcare. You may work under supervision in a variety of roles such as:

  • Nursery practitioner,
  • Classroom assistant
  • Pre-school practitioner.