Level 2 Diploma in Early Years Practitioner
Mode of study | Vocational Full-time |
Duration | 1 Year |
Campus | London Road Campus |
Start date | 4 September 2023 |
Course code | FLR2EYE (2324) |
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Who is it for?
If you wish to work with children and young people you are entering the exciting and developing world of Child Care and Education. The staff are committed to creating and supporting a world-class children’s workforce.
This qualification prepares you to work in a supervised capacity with children and their families in a variety of settings and environments within the sector of Children’s Services. Successful students can progress onto the Level 3 Early Years programme, or gain employment working with children and young people.
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Entry Requirements
At least 4 GCSEs at grade 3 or above including English Language, Maths at grade 2 or above, or a Level 1 qualification in Health & Social Care or Childcare. Safeguarding you as students and the children you will be caring for in placement is extremely important to SCG so you must complete a DBS check on enrolment. You will also have an interview by one of the tutors to determine your suitability for the course which is also your opportunity to find out more and ask us questions.
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What does the course involve?
This Level 2 course provides you with an exciting opportunity to begin your career in the Early Years sector. You will gain the knowledge and skills for caring for and working with babies and young children from 0-7 years of age with applied knowledge in the early years, 0-5 years. You’ll study in dedicated childcare classrooms and be guided through the course by expert and experienced teachers.
You will spend three days of the week achieving 14 units which cover:
- Child development
- Play
- Safeguarding
- Health & well-being
- Behaviour
- Special educational needs and disability
- Partnership working.
You will undertake a work placement of 250 hours consisting of two days per week in a childcare setting. The knowledge and skills you gain from undertaking the units and having real work placement experience enable you to develop your skills of working with children which are informed by underpinning knowledge.
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How is the course assessed?
A range of assessment methods will make up your portfolio of 14 units. For example case studies, essays, reports, reflective accounts, presentations, activity plans, interactive posters, games, displays, visual aids and placement observations.
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How much does it cost?
The full time programme is free. If you are over 19 years please speak to Admissions.
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Additional Notes
Successful completion of this course will enable you to progress to other qualifications such as the Level 3 Early Years Educator, Level 3 apprenticeships and Supporting Teaching and Learning Level 2. This qualification enables you to be employed as a Level 2 Early Years Practitioner and be counted as part of the EYFS staff/child ratios. Employment opportunities are also available as a classroom assistant, nanny, family support worker, play worker and as Children’s holiday representative
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Further Information
There are opportunities to continue studying English and Maths as part of your timetable to achieve a grade 4 or above to aid your progression onto Level 3 and enhance your employment prospects. There will be work placements of a minimum of two days a week and block placements during your study.
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What do I do next?
You can apply online via the APPLY NOW button. You can also apply for a second, alternative programme of study such as A Levels via a separate application. If after reading this factsheet, you are still undecided about the course most suitable for you, please drop in to one of our Open Evenings, ring Admissions on 01743 342346 or email admissions@scg.ac.uk

Libby Barrett
Level 3 Diploma in Childcare and Education
Previous school: Meole Brace School
After looking around other colleges and the other campuses, Childcare and Education at London Road Campus was my favourite option. I have always enjoyed being around children and after College I will be working at Opportunity Pre-School. On this course I’ve learnt strategies to manage my work, coursework and personal life. Being allowed to do practical placements is really useful and it’s great to work with current practitioners in a current situation.

Lauren Davies
Level 3 Diploma in Childcare and Education
Previous school: MShrewsbury Academy
You get loads of placement and work experience opportunities on this course – with two days a week for the whole year. I do mine at Shrewsbury Cathedral Nursery. It is a very rewarding course and gives you a great head-start with your future career, with so many job options available once you’ve completed College. The teachers are helpful and supportive, with College and personal issues. I hope to go to university to get my PGCE so that I can eventually be a primary school teacher.
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