• Access Duration:  365 Days
• Awarded by: Qualifi
• Qualification Level:  Level 2
• Qualification Number: 603/7590/5 
• Guided Learning Hours (GLH): 290
• Total Qualification Time (TQT): 370
• Credits: 37

• Understand the role of an Early Years Practitioner & gain insight into your responsibilities in supporting children’s care, development, and wellbeing. 
• Support child development  & apply knowledge of developmental stages to plan, observe, and encourage learning through play and structured activities. 
• Communicate effectively  to build strong communication skills with children, parents, colleagues, and other professionals to foster positive relationships. 
• To recognise the importance of safeguarding, health, and safety in early years settings, and to know how to respond appropriately. 
• Work collaboratively to understand how to collaborate with colleagues, families, and external agencies to provide consistent, high-quality care. 
• Develop skills in self-reflection and professional development to enhance practice and support continuous improvement in childcare settings.

Ideal learners include:

• Nursery Assistants
• Early Years Practitioners
• Childcare Assistants
• Pre-school / Playgroup Assistants
• Early Years Teaching Assistants
• Nursery Support Workers
• Wraparound Care Assistants
• Childminder Assistants
• Creche Workers
• Nannies / Au Pairs
• SEND Support Assistants
• Family Support Workers (Entry-level, early years focus)

• If you’re aged 16 or over, you’re welcome to apply. Entry is based on a friendly interview with the team at South London College, where we’ll discuss your goals and ensure the programme is the right fit for you.
• A good standard of English is required to help you fully engage with your studies. If English is not your first language and you’re unsure about your level, we can assess this and advise you on the support available to help you reach the required standard.
• International qualifications are welcome and will be reviewed to ensure they meet UK higher education entry expectations. You’ll usually be asked to provide two references, ideally including one academic reference.

• This course can be completed through two flexible study options to suit your lifestyle:
  • Standard Course Plan (6 months) – ideal for learners balancing other commitments.
  • Fast Track Option (3 months) – perfect for those who can dedicate intensive study time.
• Most learners complete within their chosen timeframe, though some may finish earlier depending on personal circumstances and available study time. We accommodate your pace with unlimited support for 12 months. This Level 2 Diploma requires approximately 290 guided learning hours.

T&C apply

• Assessment  is practical, realistic, and work-related, helping you demonstrate the knowledge and skills required in early years settings. 
• There are no end exams for this course. Each unit is assessed through assignments aligned with the unit’s Learning Outcomes (LOs) and Assessment Criteria (ACs). 
• Through your assignments, you will demonstrate understanding, original thinking, problem-solving, and practical recommendations where appropriate, while applying relevant theory to real-world scenarios. 
• You are encouraged to draw on real organisations, case studies, and your own work experience in your answers.  

 Mentor Guidance and Support 

• Our experienced mentors will guide and support you throughout your assessment journey, and you can contact them via email whenever you need assistance. 

The Qualifi Level 2 Diploma for Early Years Practitioners provides the knowledge and skills to support children’s development, wellbeing, and learning. You’ll gain practical experience in child development, safeguarding, communication, supporting learning, and creating safe, nurturing environments, laying a strong foundation for further study in early years education. 

Next Steps for a Potential Academic Progression Pathway 

• Step 1: Qualifi Level 3 Diploma in Early Years Practice
• Step 2: Level 4 Diploma in Early Childhood Education
• Step 3: Level 5 Diploma in Early Childhood Education

Alternative Pathways

• Level 2 Diploma in Understanding Autism
• Level 2 Diploma in Child Psychology

Step confidently into a rewarding career with the Qualifi Level 2 Diploma for the Early Years Practitioner.You’ll also develop professional skills in reflection, teamwork, and planning, preparing you to take on entry-level roles and progress in your career. With this diploma, you’ll be ready to contribute meaningfully to your workplace and lay the foundation for future growth in early years education and childcare leadership.

Potential Roles and Approximate UK Salaries (Glassdoor)

• Early Years Practitioners: £18,000
• Nursery Assistants: £17,000
• Childcare Support Workers: £18,000
• Pre-School Educators: £19,000
• Nursery Practitioner: £20,000
• Nursery Manager: £30,000

The Office of Qualifications and Examinations Regulation (Ofqual) is a non-ministerial government department responsible for regulating qualifications, exams, and assessments in England. Ofqual ensures that all qualifications offered by recognised awarding organisations meet rigorous national standards, giving you confidence that any Ofqual-regulated certificate is high-quality and widely accepted by employers and universities.