Working With Children In Early Years & Primary Settings
If you love working with children, this one-year Level 2 course could be your perfect starting point. You will get stuck into real childcare scenarios, from play-based learning to looking after babies, in our fully equipped training room with lifelike dolls and hands-on activities.
On this course you will:
– Study child development
– Learn how to create fun learning activities
– Understand how to keep children safe and healthy
– Complete 120 hours of work experience with observation and feedback from a work-based assessor
Apply for this course
Select from the start date/s below…
North Devon Campus
Course details
Assessments
Assessment is coursework-based. You will complete written assignments, practical observations, a portfolio of evidence, and case studies and role play activities rather than sitting exams.
Entry Requirements
All entrants must hold four GCSEs at grade 3 or equivalent (or above), including GCSE Maths and English. If you do not have a GCSE grade 4 in Maths and/or English you will continue studying these subjects alongside your chosen course(s). At the end of the year, you are expected to have completed and achieved all the components of your Level 2 Study Programme and improved your Maths and English skills before progressing to your next level course.
To enrol on this course, you will typically need:
A keen interest in working with children.
A positive attitude towards learning, teamwork, and communication.
A commitment to completing a work placement in a childcare or education setting.
Progression
You could progress to a Level 3 course such as the Education and Childcare T Level or the Support for Teaching and Learning in Schools Diploma, or into employment.
Facilities and resources
Fully Equipped Training Room – featuring interactive babies, baby-changing and bathing areas, and a wide range of learning resources.
Strong Links with Employers – excellent connections with local nurseries, preschools, and primary schools for work experience opportunities.
Expert Tutors – taught by a highly experienced and qualified team with real-world childcare expertise.
This interactive, hands-on course makes learning engaging, practical, and career-focused.
FAQs
Q: Is this course just classroom-based?
A: No! You will train in a practical setting, using interactive babies, baby care facilities, and play equipment. You’ll also gain real-world experience in nurseries and schools.
Q: Do I need childcare experience to enrol?
A: No prior experience is needed—just a genuine interest in working with children and a willingness to learn!
Q: Will I work with real children during this course?
A: Yes! You will complete a work placement in a nursery, preschool, or primary school, gaining hands-on experience.
Q: Is this course suitable if I want to become a teacher?
A: Yes! This is a great first step towards a career in early years education or primary teaching. You can progress to Level 3 qualifications and higher education.
Q: Will I need my own uniform or equipment?
A: Some work placements may require practical, smart clothing, but all necessary equipment for training sessions is provided.
Q: What kind of jobs can I apply for after this course?
A: You can work as a Nursery Assistant, Playworker, or Childcare Assistant, or continue studying towards more senior roles in education and childcare.
Q: What support is available during the course?
A: Our highly experienced tutors will support you throughout your learning. We also provide careers advice, coursework guidance, and work experience support.
Study Programme
Every full-time student at North Devon College will have their own Study Programme which will include:
– Your academic or vocational qualification.
– Maths and English Language development – if you have not achieved GCSE grade 4 in either of these subjects.
– Work Experience – hours will vary depending on your qualification and course level.
– Tutor Support – to support your personal, academic and professional development.
– Sustainability – helping you to identify how you can improve the sustainability of your future employment sectors.
– Personal Development Awards – developing six key areas of personal and employability behaviours to prepare you for the working world.
As this course requires you to undertake work placements with children and/or vulnerable adults, a DBS check is required.
Why North Devon College should be your first choice
North Devon College offers quality education and training across North Devon. We aim to provide outstanding learning, excellent facilities, strong connections to employers and a supportive environment to help you fulfil your education goals and set you on your path to the career of your dreams.
SUPPORTIVE
We offer a supportive and inclusive environment where you can flourish and feel a valued member of the college and wider community.Â
INSPIRING
Our teaching spaces and facilities are some of the best in the region, providing stimulating and true-to-life learning environments.Â
CONNECTED
We’ll provide you with the experiences you need to be ready for employment or the next step on your educational journey.
