Course Overview

Fee disclaimer

This course is FREE for most students.
A £30 membership fee applies to all students.
The course fee listed is the maximum you could pay.
No payment is required when you apply. After submitting your application, our customer service team will contact you to confirm your eligibility for free or discounted fees and guide you through the next steps.
You might be surprised at how many ways you can qualify for funding. Check your eligibility here.

Entry requirements

GCSE English Language at grade 4 or above, maths grade 3 or above, plus two other GCSEs at grade 3 or above. A satisfactory interview and satisfactory DBS (formerly CRB) check are also required and an interest in working with children is essential.

Course information

The Early Years Practitioner Level 2 Diploma provides the skills needed to work with young children, including child development, safety, and educational techniques in early years settings.

Suitable for individuals looking to pursue a career in childcare, early years education, or nursery assistant roles.

Key topics

Child development
Health and safety
Early childhood education
Play-based learning
Child protection

How you are assessed

You will have one assignment per unit. You will complete three assessments in the workplace and will need to be signed off against all performance criteria.

All students complete a mandatory work placement for two days each week for which they are working in an early years setting.
Next steps

The early years sector is rapidly growing, with increasing demand for qualified professionals in early childhood education and care.
Why study at NCC?
- Expert teaching: Learn from experienced tutors with real-world industry knowledge
- Flexible study options: Part-time, evening and online learning available
- Career progression routes: From entry level to professional qualifications
- Outstanding support: One-to-one advice, wellbeing support and financial guidance
- Ofsted-rated Outstanding: Quality teaching and support you can trust
- Modern facilities: Industry-standard workshops, labs, studios and digital tools
- Employer links: Courses shaped by local and national job market needs

Select your campus option to apply

Dates Schedule Max. fee if paid

Start: 09/09/2025

End: 03/07/2026

Tue to Fri (09:30 - 14:30)

£1009.00

Choose this course

What Can This Course Lead To

Advanced-level adult course in this subject area at New City College.
Childcare assistant roles, early years educator positions, or progression to Level 3 qualifications in childcare.

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