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Early Years Practitioner Level 2

The Early Years Practitioner Level 2 programme is designed to help you build the knowledge and skills needed when working with children and young people from birth to five years of age. It covers a diverse range of job roles and occupational areas working in children’s environments. Practical work-based training forms a large part of this programme.

Course Info
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Early Years Practitioner Level 2
Qualification: Pearson BTEC Level 2 Technical Occupational Entry for Early Years Practitioners (Diploma)
LevelLevel 2
LocationColchester
DurationOne year
Study ModeFull-Time
Campus / Adult Skills CentreColchester Campus
Start DateSeptember 2026
Fee(s)16-18 year olds: Free
19+: £1,243
Awarding/Validation BodyPearson
What Will I Learn?

Whilst on the Level 2 programme you will study 11 key units and complete mandatory placement hours which equip you with the knowledge and skills needed to work with and care for children as an Early Years Practitioner. You will also engage in activities to develop your English, maths and employability skills.

Course Content

Early Years Practitioner Level 2 may include:

  • Supporting physical care routines for children
  • Understanding how to plan to meet the needs of the developing child
  • Supporting children’s play
  • Managing paediatric illness and injury
  • Industry work experience (300 hours)

Please note all students in the Early Years department are required to purchase and wear uniform both in College and at their placements.

Entry Requirements
  • 4 GCSEs (9-3) including English Language and Maths (one at Grade 4) (or Level 1/2 Functional Skills equivalent), or satisfactory results (Merit/Distinction) in a relevant Level 1 qualification
  • An interview.
  • Satisfactory Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS*) check is also required.

*Please note there is a charge of approximately £50 for a DBS check.

Course Progression

This qualification may allows progression onto the Early Years Educator T-Level programme, an apprenticeship or employment.

Career Opportunities

Learners can progress to the following job roles:

  • Assistant pre-school workers.
  • Assistants in children’s centres.
  • Assistants in day nurseries, nursery schools and nursery classes in primary schools.

Fees and Finance

Students’ college education is funded for three academic years after leaving secondary school in year 11. Please click the button below which will apply to your age on the 31st August 2026 in order to find out more information about fees and finance relating to your course.

I will be under 19 on the 31st August 2026
I will be 19 or over on the 31st August 2026

Disclaimer

All fees, prices and funding information shown on this page are for courses starting in the 2025-26 academic year unless stated otherwise, and are correct at the time of entering/printing information, however these may be subject to change due to factors outside of our control. The College cannot accept legal or financial liability as a result of any such changes.

Courses fees are generally not confirmed for September until June / July due to the above factors.

The course information describes programmes offered by Colchester Institute. The College takes all reasonable steps to provide courses as described, but cannot guarantee provision. The information is for guidance and does not form any part of a contract.

The College reserves the right to update and amend information as and when necessary. Colchester Institute will do its best to provide the courses shown, but may have to modify or withdraw a course depending on customer demand and other factors.

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