Level 2 Diploma for Early Years Practitioner
Your First Step into Early Years Education
Begin your career working with children and develop the skills to support their learning, development, and wellbeing in early years settings.
The Level 2 Early Years Practitioner qualification prepares learners to work directly with children from birth to 5 years old, supporting their care, play, and learning within the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS).
You’ll gain the knowledge, skills, and professional behaviours to deliver purposeful play activities, meet children’s individual needs, and help them thrive in safe and nurturing environments.
You’ll learn how to:
Support children’s learning and development through play
Assist in planning and delivering age-appropriate activities
Promote language, communication, and personal development
Safeguard children’s wellbeing and recognise signs of risk or harm
Work collaboratively with parents, carers, and early years professionals
Level:
2 Apprenticeship Standard
Typical Duration:
12–15 months
Assessment:
Observation, professional discussion & portfolio
Study Mode:
Work-based learning
Supervision:
Under guidance of an Early Years Educator or Teacher
Minimum Age:
16+
Who Is It For?
This qualification is perfect for:
Learners aged 16+ starting their career in childcare and education
Nursery assistants, early years workers, or childminders in training
Individuals supporting children in nurseries, pre-schools, or reception classes
Course Content
You’ll cover the knowledge, skills, and behaviours required to meet the EYFS framework, combining hands-on practice with professional theory.
Core Learning Areas:
Child Development from Birth to 5 Years
Supporting Play, Learning, and Exploration
Health, Safety, and Safeguarding in Early Years Settings
Promoting Positive Behaviour and Inclusion
Supporting Children’s Personal, Social, and Emotional Development
Communicating with Parents, Carers, and Professionals
Supporting Care Routines (feeding, toileting, hygiene)
How You’ll Be Assessed
Assessment is designed to evaluate both your practical and theoretical skills within your childcare setting.
Observation with questions by an independent assessor
Professional discussion underpinned by a portfolio of evidence
Workplace performance review by your tutor and employer
End-point assessment (EPA) once you’ve completed all learning outcomes
You’ll achieve a final grade of Pass or Distinction upon completion.
Progression & Careers
After qualifying, you can work as:
After qualifying, you can work as:
Early Years Practitioner
Nursery Assistant or Nursery Nurse
Pre-School or Playgroup Assistant
Nanny or Home-Based Childcarer
Progression routes include:
Level 3 Early Years Educator
Level 3 Teaching Assistant
Level 3 Diploma in Supporting Teaching and Learning
Level 3 Apprenticeships in Education and Childcare
Entry Requirements
- Learners must be aged 16 or over
- Enhanced DBS check required
- Basic English and Maths skills — learners without Level 1 must achieve this before completion
- Employment or placement in an early years setting
Why Choose Accacia Training?
- 20+ years’ experience training early years professionals
- Tutors with real-world childcare and education backgrounds
- Flexible, work-based delivery with dedicated learner support
- Focus on practical learning aligned to the EYFS framework
- Clear progression pathway to Level 3 and beyond
Support Hub
Do I need experience to start?
No, this is an entry-level qualification designed for those new to childcare.
Where can I work after qualifying?
In nurseries, pre-schools, reception classes, or home-based childcare.
How long does the course take?
Typically 12 months plus a 3-month end-point assessment period.
What will I learn?
You’ll learn how to support children’s development, keep them safe, and assist in delivering play-based learning.
What can I progress onto after this course?
You can move directly into the Level 3 Early Years Educator qualification.
