Level 2 Diploma for the Early Years Practitioner
The ideal starting point for anyone entering the early years sector. This entry-level qualification gives you the foundational knowledge and practical skills to work confidently with babies and young children aged 0–5 in nursery and childcare settings.
What you'll study
- Child development (0–5 years)
- Play, learning and the environment
- Health, safety and wellbeing in early years
- Equality, diversity and inclusion
- Working in partnership with parents and carers
- Safeguarding children
Assessment & Requirements
How you'll be assessed
Portfolio of evidence and work-based learning
Teaching methods
Online personal tutoring & face-to-face observation
Who this is for
Working with babies and young children in early years settings
Career Outcomes
With this qualification you'll be eligible for roles including:
Nursery Assistant
£20,000–£22,000
per year
Early Years Practitioner
£20,000–£23,000
per year
Childminder's Assistant
£19,000–£21,000
per year
Career Ladder
See where this qualification fits in your career journey.
Level 2 · NCFE CACHE
Diploma for the Early Years Practitioner
as Nursery Assistant, Early Years Practitioner, Childminder's Assistant
Level 3 · NCFE CACHE
Diploma for Working in the Early Years Sector (Early Years Educator)as Early Years Educator, Room Leader, Key Person
Level 5 · ICQ
Diploma in Leadership for Children and Young People's Servicesas Nursery Manager, Deputy Manager, Children's Services Manager
Fees & payment
- Course fee is £69 per month for 12 months, or £828 upfront in full.
- An awarding body registration fee of approximately £124.5 is payable directly to NCFE CACHE — we'll confirm the exact amount at enrolment.
- No hidden fees — pay monthly to spread the cost, or save by paying the full course fee upfront.
- Not sure? You have a 14-day money-back guarantee from the date of enrolment — full refund, no questions asked. See our refund policy →
- All support sessions with your assessor are included — no extra charge, ever.
- Extensions beyond your standard course duration are available at an additional cost. Learn more in our Terms & Conditions →
Ready to get started?
Apply in 2 minutes — your qualification starts here.
14-day risk-free guarantee. Full refund if it's not right for you.
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