Please note, to enrol on an apprenticeship you must be working in a relevant sector for at least 16 hours per week. If you are not currently employed, you can view our apprenticeship vacancies here. You do not need to be employed to apply for these and new vacancies are added regularly.
The Level 2 Diploma for the Early Years Practitioner is for people already working or volunteering with babies and young children, such as nursery practitioners, classroom assistants and pre school practitioners. You’ll build knowledge of child development, safeguarding, play and behaviour from birth to 7. It meets the DfE’s Level 2 full and relevant criteria, so you count towards the ratio as a qualified practitioner.
You combine taught knowledge with practical observations carried out in your workplace. A vocationally competent assessor supports you to build a portfolio of evidence using a range of methods. To achieve the qualification, you’ll earn 37 credits across all 14 mandatory units, complete a work placement, and show progress in study skills, English and maths. All your resources are on our virtual learning environment (VLE), and your portfolio is managed on the Smart Assessor electronic system.
This is a guide to who can study for free. You must be aged 19 or over, live in West Sussex, London, Surrey or Buckinghamshire, and meet UK residency requirements for the duration of the course. You can’t be on a Skilled Worker, Sponsorship or Graduate visa. If you’re employed, you must earn £28,860 a year or less in London, or £26,800 or less in Surrey, West Sussex or Buckinghamshire. Unemployed learners may also be eligible. You need to work or volunteer in an Early Years setting. Eligibility is confirmed at enrolment. Not sure? Get in touch.
Apprenticeships:
Careers:
The Level 2 Early Years Practitioner Apprenticeship is a work based programme for individuals starting a career in childcare and early years education. Apprentices work in a nursery, preschool, or early years setting while earning a salary and developing the skills needed to support children's learning, development, and wellbeing.
The apprenticeship typically takes 12 to 15 months to complete, depending on the apprentice's experience and progress. Apprentices remain employed throughout, receive support from a dedicated tutor, and complete off the job training during paid working hours.
No prior childcare qualifications are needed. The main requirement is that you are employed in a suitable early years setting where you can demonstrate the skills required by the apprenticeship. Functional Skills support in maths and English can be provided where needed.
The apprenticeship provides a strong foundation for a career in early years and an excellent progression route to the Level 3 Early Years Educator Apprenticeship. Many employers retain successful apprentices as permanent members of staff following completion.
