Course overview
The NCFE CACHE Level 2 Diploma for the Early Years Practitioner is a nationally recognised qualification regulated by Ofqual. It is designed to prepare learners for a rewarding career in childcare and early years education.
This course provides the essential knowledge and practical experience required to work confidently with children from birth to five years and to understand their development up to the age of seven.
On completion, you will be qualified to work as a Level 2 Early Years Practitioner in settings such as nurseries, pre-schools and reception classes. The qualification also offers a direct progression route to the NCFE CACHE Level 3 Diploma in Early Years Education and Care.
Who's It For?
This qualification is suitable for individuals who are:
Starting their career and need an entry-level qualification to work under supervision with children aged 0–5.
Changing career and looking to enter the early years and childcare sector.
Working or volunteering in an early years setting and requiring a formal qualification to secure paid employment.
Parents or carers who wish to gain a professional understanding of child development, safeguarding and early learning.
Job outcomes
- Early Years Assistant
- Nursery Practitioner
- Pre-School Assistant
- Crèche Worker
What you'll learn
Learners will develop a strong understanding of the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) and gain practical, work-based experience. The course covers the following key areas:
Child Development and Learning – Understand how children grow and learn from birth to seven years and plan engaging, age-appropriate play and learning activities.
Health, Safety and Safeguarding – Apply the statutory frameworks and maintain safe, healthy and nurturing environments for all children.
Equality and Behaviour Management – Promote inclusion, equality and diversity, and use positive strategies to encourage appropriate behaviour.
Care and Healthy Lifestyles – Support children’s personal care routines, healthy eating, physical activity and emotional wellbeing.
Professional Practice and SEND – Understand your role as an early years practitioner, work effectively with colleagues and families, and support children with special educational needs and disabilities.
Study method
- Online
- Blended
- In-class
- Virtual
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Duration study load
Most learners complete the qualification within 9–12 months, depending on placement hours and study commitment.
Delivery
Flexible Online Learning: Study at your own pace with 24-hour access to course materials.
Entry requirements
There are no formal academic requirements. However, learners must:
Secure a Real Work Environment (RWE) placement in a registered early years setting such as a nursery, pre-school or reception class.
Complete a minimum of 250 hours of practical work experience to produce required evidence.
Hold a satisfactory Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check before starting placement.
Have a good standard of written and spoken English to complete assignments and communicate effectively in the workplace.
Pathways
This qualification provides a direct progression route to:
NCFE CACHE Level 3 Diploma in Early Years Education and Care (Early Years Educator)
Other Level 3 qualifications in childcare, education or health and social care
Course features
Why study with us:
NCFE CACHE Approved Centre: Fully regulated and nationally recognised qualification.
Expert Tutor Support: Receive guidance from qualified assessors and IQAs with real industry experience.
Career-Focused Learning: Assignments and assessments are designed to develop practical skills for employment in early years settings.
Assessment
Assessment combines written and practical evidence to demonstrate knowledge and competence.
Knowledge-based tasks: Written assignments, short answer questions and reflective accounts demonstrating understanding of childcare theory, legislation and best practice.
Practical evidence: Observations, activity plans, witness testimonies and professional discussions completed in the workplace.
The qualification is graded as Achieved or Not Achieved. Learners must successfully complete all 14 mandatory units (37 credits) to pass.
Subjects
Module - Core focus
Professional Role, Communication, Teamwork and Continuing Professional Development
Safeguarding, Protection, Health and Safety
Equality, Inclusion and Promoting Positive Behaviour
Child Development and Supporting Individual Needs (SEND)
Care Routines, Hygiene, Health and Healthy Lifestyles
Planning Activities, Enabling Environments and Transitions to School
The qualification includes 14 mandatory units totalling 37 credits.
About Orvanta Open College
Orvanta Open College specializes in high-quality Health and Social Care and Child Care education, bridging the gap between flexible online study and real-time human connection. Our interactive learning model features live webinars, collaborative meetings, and structured tutor group sessions that ensure students never learn in isolation. By combining industry-expert guidance with a supportive peer network, we deliver an engaging educational experience that yields high completion rates and practical, career-ready skills. What We Offer At Orvanta Open College, we provide flexible, high-quality online learning designed to help you succeed.Recognised Qualifications - Study Ofqual-regulated courses trusted by employers and universities.Flexible Study - Learn anytime, anywhere with our easy-to-use online platform.Expert Support - Access guidance from qualified tutors and assessors throughout your journey.Career Progression - Gain certificates that open doors to new roles, promotions, or further study.Wide Course Range - Choose from Health and Social Care, Early Years, Business, Education & Training, and more.Why Choose Orvanta Open College?Trusted provider of UK online qualifications.Transparent policies that put learners first.Strong commitment to quality assurance, academic integrity, and learner success.Dedicated student support team providing guidance every step of the way.Competitive course fees with flexible payment options.
