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Level 2 Certificate in Understanding Specific Learning Difficulties

London Surrey West Sussex

Course Overview

The level 2 certificate in understanding specific learning difficulties is great for both individuals as well as employers looking for training to upskill their staff.

This certificate in level 2 understanding specific learning difficulties aims to help develop knowledge of several different specific learning difficulties, how they are diagnosed and how individuals can be supported. It also covers how to understand the positive aspects and strengths of individuals with specific learning difficulties in addition to exploring the barriers they may face.

Key Information

Course Length: 16 weeks on average

Awarding Body: TQUK (E-certificates upon achievement)

Learning Method(s):

  • Paper materials
  • Online assessment
  • Paper assessment

There is no prior qualification needed to access this course.

This course is part of our fully funded range of Level 2 courses so is free to the majority of learners – eligibility criteria applies.

Course content

Unit 1: Understand Specific Learning Difficulties
Develop an understanding of what is meant by the term learning difficulty and research the characteristics of different difficulties and co-occurring conditions. Similarly develop an understanding of common misconceptions and how a learning difficulty is a lifelong condition.
Unit 2: Understand the effects of Specific Learning Difficulties
Gain an understanding of how specific learning difficulties affect an individual’s life and those of others around them. Develop an understanding of how the attitudes of others can impact the individuals and develop the tools to identify the strengths and barriers an individual may experience.
Unit 3: Understand the diagnosis of Specific Learning Difficulties
Develop an understanding of the importance of gaining an early diagnosis and the impact of delayed or non-diagnosis. Investigate the diagnosis process and the professionals involved.
Unit 4: Understanding supporting individuals with Specific Learning Difficulties
Explore how to support an individual with a Specific Learning Difficulty in a variety of settings and gain an understanding of different coping strategies and assistive technology that can be used as support.

Eligibility Criteria

This is a guide to the eligibility criteria if you are not sure about anything please get in touch with us.

  • If employed, you may still be eligible for funding if you earn less than £28k per year outside of London or less than £14.80 per hour in London. Proof of wage will be required prior to enrolment.
  • Learners must be aged 19+ by 31st Aug 2025.
  • Learners must be have the right to work and live in the UK for the length of the course.
  • Learners can be unemployed, however, Level 2 Mental Health in Early Years and Level 2 Adverse Childhood Experiences must be done in the workplace.
  • There are no entry requirements to undertake a distance learning course, however a good level of English is required.

Download Course Information PDF

Click to view and download the course information PDF

Frequently Asked Questions

This course is fully free for eligible adults aged 19 and over living in London or Buckinghamshire, funded through the Adult Skills Fund. Funding is generally available to people who are unemployed or on a lower income and is subject to residency and eligibility checks when you enrol.

This is a nationally recognised qualification that develops knowledge of specific learning difficulties and how they can affect people in education, work and everyday life. It covers dyslexia, dyspraxia, dyscalculia, ADHD, reasonable adjustments, inclusive practice and strategies that can help individuals overcome barriers and achieve their potential.

This qualification is suitable for Teaching Assistants, teachers, tutors, SEND Support Staff, Early Years Practitioners, Care Workers, Support Workers, Youth Workers and others supporting people with specific learning difficulties. It is particularly valuable for those working in education, training, health and social care and community services.

The course helps learners recognise individual needs, understand barriers to learning and use effective strategies to provide more inclusive support. It develops awareness of how specific learning difficulties can affect communication, learning, organisation, memory, concentration and confidence, helping practitioners adapt their approaches to individual needs.

Most learners complete the qualification within 10 to 12 weeks through flexible blended learning, with online learning materials and dedicated tutor or assessor support. Assessment is completed through an online portfolio of evidence and knowledge based workbooks, with no formal examinations required.