Child Care Level 2
Are you passionate about working with children and helping them grow? The Level 2 Diploma for the Early Years Practitioner is the perfect first step into the world of early childhood care. This programme equips you with the essential knowledge and hands-on skills needed to support the development of young children from birth to seven years old. Whether you're just starting your career or looking to enhance your understanding, this diploma offers a fulfilling and rewarding experience that will prepare you for a range of childcare roles.
In order to undertake this course students are required to have a DBS check.
Elizabeth Lefever
I’ve always wanted to work in the childcare industry and chose this course as the best option to further my career. I like the fact that I have work placements in nurseries and schools to get more experience and become more confident. The support staff and teachers are happy to help and full of encouragement.
Child Care
Laura Pearce
As a teaching assistant, I find the course extremely relevant to my job. The course has taught me a lot about children’s learning development, and I’m applying what I’ve learnt so far within my role at the school where I work. Studying for a degree in Newbury is an advantage to me. I was thrilled that UCN’s partnership with the University of Reading made this possible for me. More...
Foundation Degree in Children's Development and Learning
-
Description
This diploma covers a wide range of practical and theoretical topics designed to help you understand child development and care. You'll learn how to provide safe, stimulating environments that encourage learning and development. Some of the key areas include:
- Understanding child development
- Promoting positive behaviour in early years settings
- Safeguarding and child protection
- Supporting children's communication and language development
- Encouraging healthy lifestyles and well-being for children
- Working in partnership with parents, carers, and professionals
- Supporting children's play, learning, and development
- Developing professional skills for working in early years settings
This blend of theory and practice ensures you're well-prepared for a dynamic career in early years education.
Students are required to wear uniform when on work placement and the process for collecting this uniform will be explained at induction. We encourage student feedback and good attendance at review evenings.
-
Entry Requirements
Students will be accepted onto the course if they have a vocationally relevant Level one Diploma and Functional Skills Maths and English, preferably at Level 1. All students must have achieved, or show the ability to achieve, Maths and English to grade 3 (D) or equivalent. Where a student has not yet fulfilled this requirement, a functional skills qualification is a mandatory part of this course. A DBS check is required as part of this course to enable students to do the mandatory work placement in childcare settings. ID for this needs to be presented to tutors by 1st October.
Having a genuine love for working with children is essential. Patience, empathy, and a desire to see children thrive will help you make the most of this programme. A keen interest in learning how to create fun, educational, and safe environments for children is also important.
-
Qualification
NCFE CACHE Level 2 Diploma for the Early Years Practitioner
-
Progression
Upon completing the Level 2 Diploma, you'll be fully qualified to work as an entry-level Early Years Practitioner in settings such as nurseries, pre-schools, and childcare centres. This qualification also opens the door to further study, such as progressing to an apprenticeship, giving you the opportunity to grow into more senior roles like nursery supervisor or room leader.
-
Assessment
Assessments are practical and designed to showcase the skills you gain throughout the programme. You'll be assessed through workplace observations, written assignments, and evidence-based portfolios. These assessments ensure you can apply what you've learned in real-life early years settings, giving you the confidence to work in the field.
-
Home Study
We work expect around 2 - 4 hours of external study a week.
-
Work Placement
You'll have the chance to participate in weekly work experience, or a block placement, where you can gain hands-on experience. Engage with inspiring speakers from the industry who will share insights about their roles and career paths. Additionally, you may have the opportunity to visit various workplaces to observe professionals in action.
-
Fees and Additional Costs
If you are over 18 there will be a registration fee of £130.00 if you have not previously registered with the exam board. For your work placement you will need to purchase a college logo polo shirt and sweatshirt at a cost of approximately £30.00.You may also be required to purchase a relevant text book.
| Code | Start | Fees* |
|---|---|---|
| CHILDCAREL2D 252601 | September 2025 | Fee Information |
* Terms and conditions apply. The fees stated on this website are for guidance purposes only and should be checked before enrolment. Unless otherwise stated, fees shown are for tuition only, over one academic year. Where a course is longer than one academic year, the fees stated are for the first year, and the cost of the second or subsequent years will be discussed at interview. For details of fee remission for students over 19 click here. If you think you may be entitled to a concession or fee remission, or you would like more information on the additional costs associated with your chosen course, please contact us on 01635 845000 or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..