Level 2 Diploma for the Early Years Practitioner

What is this qualification?

Looking to start a fulfiling career in the childcare industry? The Level 2 Diploma for the Early Years Practitioner offers a solid foundation for aspiring professionals. This comprehensive course provides essential training in child development, safeguarding, and promoting early learning. Gain practical skills and knowledge to support children's holistic development, plan engaging activities, and create a safe and stimulating environment. As a qualified early years practitioner, nursery assistant, or preschool worker, you'll have the opportunity to make a positive impact on young lives. Kickstart your journey today and unlock a world of exciting career opportunities in the ever-growing field of early years education and childcare. Enrol now to begin your path towards a rewarding and fulfiling profession.

Who is this qualification for?

The Level 2 Diploma for the Early Years Practitioner is a valuable qualification designed for individuals who are interested in working with young children in early years settings. This course provides essential knowledge and practical skills necessary to support children's development and provide high-quality care. It is suitable for a range of individuals, including:

1. Aspiring Early Years Practitioners: If you have a passion for working with young children and want to start a career in the early years sector, this qualification is an excellent choice. It equips you with foundational knowledge in child development, health and safety, communication skills, and understanding child behaviour.

2. Nursery Assistants: If you are currently working as a nursery assistant or wish to work in a nursery setting, this diploma can enhance your skills and knowledge. It covers topics such as creating stimulating environments, supporting learning activities, and promoting positive behaviour, enabling you to contribute effectively to the care and education of young children.

3. Childcare Support Workers: Individuals working as childcare support workers in various early years settings, such as preschools or daycares, can benefit from this course. It provides you with the necessary skills to assist in implementing daily routines, promoting play and learning activities, and ensuring the well-being of children under your care.

4. Parents and Guardians: This qualification is also suitable for parents and guardians who want to gain a deeper understanding of early childhood development and effective parenting practices. It provides valuable insights into supporting children's learning and fostering their emotional, social, and cognitive growth.

5. Career Changers: It provides a recognised qualification that demonstrates your commitment to the field and equips you with the necessary skills to succeed in entry-level roles.

By completing this qualification, you can enhance your employability and open doors to various roles in early years settings, such as nursery assistant, childcare support worker, preschool assistant, or playgroup assistant. This qualification is highly regarded within the industry and provides a solid foundation for further professional development in the field of early childhood education and care.

Why choose this qualification

The "the qualification" is essential for individuals seeking a rewarding career in childcare and education. This course is required to gain foundational knowledge and practical skills in supporting the development of young children. Accredited by reputable institutions, it enhances employability in the early years sector. With a focus on child development, health, and safety, learners are equipped to provide high-quality care and learning experiences. Flexible study options, including online learning, make it accessible for aspiring practitioners. Enrol now to become a qualified early years practitioner and make a positive impact on young children's lives.

Qualification structure and units

The qualification totals 37 credits. Unit details are published in the Qualifi specification.

How you study

Standard study plan: 6 Months; extended plan: 9 Months.

At Education Training the qualification is delivered online: you receive the materials, assignment briefs and tutor support through the learning platform and submit work when you are ready. There are no fixed lecture times, so you can start in any month.

How you are assessed

Units are assessed through written assignments and, where the qualification requires it, observed teaching or assessment practice. Work is marked by the centre and externally verified by Qualifi. There are no examinations.

Entry requirements

● There are no formal requirements for specific prior qualifications or levels of attainment.
● Learner must be 16 years or older at the beginning of the course

Fees and payment plans

A £10 enrolment fee is paid with the application. Fees include tuition, learning materials, assignment marking and the awarding-body certificate. Prices correct as of 23 October 2026.

Refund policy · Complaints procedure

What is included

Progression and career routes

Looking to kickstart an exciting career in childcare? This qualification opens doors to a world of rewarding opportunities. With this sought-after qualification, you can embark on a fulfiling path as an early years practitioner, nursery assistant, playgroup worker, or childminder. Acquire essential skills in child development, health and safety, and fostering a nurturing environment for children's growth. By gaining practical experience and recognised certification, you'll stand out in the competitive job market. Join this comprehensive course today and develop your skills to make a positive impact on young minds, while enjoying a fulfiling and meaningful career in the dynamic field of early years education and childcare.

Related job profiles on the National Careers Service (pay, hours and entry routes are published there):

• Early years teacher
• Nursery worker

How this qualification compares

Figures below come from Education Training's own catalogue and enquiry records, not from estimates; each carries the date it was calculated.

Teaching progression ladder (Levels 2–7) (as of 23 October 2026)

Level 2: the qualification → Level 3: Level 3 Foundation Diploma for Higher Education Studies → Level 7: Level 7 Diploma in Teaching English to Speakers of other Languages (TESOL)

Credits and study hours by RQF level (as of 23 October 2026)

Level 2: median 37 credits, TQT hours, GLH; Level 3: median 18 credits, TQT hours, GLH; Level 4: median 33 credits, 780 TQT hours, 125 GLH; Level 5: median 120 credits, 815 TQT hours, 600 GLH; Level 6: median 120 credits, 1200 TQT hours, 480 GLH; Level 7: median 120 credits, 1200 TQT hours, 600 GLH

Share of course-page views by RQF level (all time) (as of 23 October 2026)

Level 0: 2%; Level 3: 6%; Level 4: 1%; Level 5: 90%; Level 6: 1%

Regulated qualifications offered by Education Training, by level (as of 23 October 2026)

Level 2: 1 qualification; Level 3: 7 qualifications; Level 4: 14 qualifications; Level 5: 13 qualifications; Level 6: 3 qualifications; Level 7: 4 qualifications (42 in total)

Awarding body and regulation

This qualification is awarded by Qualifi, an awarding organisation regulated by Ofqual. Its qualification number is 603/7590/5 — view the entry on the Ofqual register. Education Training is an approved centre: we deliver and assess the qualification, Qualifi verifies our assessment decisions and issues the certificate. Read about Qualifi recognition.

How to apply

Pay the £10 enrolment fee when you submit your application (separate from the course fee).

1. Apply online
   Use Apply now to open the application form with this programme pre-selected. Tell us about your current role and qualifications; pay the £10 enrolment fee to complete enrolment when prompted.
2. Course activation
   Once you enrol, we email your course activation link within 24 hours.
3. Course fee
   Admissions email a secure link to pay the course fee in full or on an instalment plan (usually within one working day). There is no fixed intake date.

Progression path

1. Level 2 Diploma
2. →
3. Level 3 Diploma

Related pages

• Early Years Supervision for Child Development
• Level 5 Diploma in Early Learning and Childcare
• Level 3 Diploma in Early Years Education and Care (Early Years Educator)

Browse every Teaching qualification or all Level 2 qualifications.