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Occupational Certificate: Early Years Practitioner - Level 2

What is the Occupational Certificate: Early Years Practitioner course?

The Occupational Certificate: Early Years Practitioner is designed for learners who want to develop the knowledge, skills and behaviours required to work in the early years sector. This two-year programme combines classroom learning with extensive industry placement experience, preparing students for employment as an Early Years Practitioner and progression within the childcare and education sector.

Who should study the Occupational Certificate: Early Years Practitioner course?

This course is ideal for 16–18-year-olds who are:

  • Interested in working with babies and young children in early years settings.
  • Passionate about supporting children's learning, development and wellbeing.
  • Looking to develop practical skills through industry placement.
  • Planning to progress into employment as an Early Years Practitioner or onto a higher-level qualification, apprenticeship or further training.

What will you learn on the Occupational Certificate: Early Years Practitioner course?

You will develop knowledge and practical skills in key areas including:

  • Child development from birth to seven years.
  • Supporting children's learning through play and planned activities.
  • Safeguarding, child protection and promoting children's welfare.
  • Health, nutrition, wellbeing and healthy lifestyles.
  • Communication with children, parents, carers and professionals.
  • Supporting children with SEND and promoting inclusion.
  • Observation, assessment and planning for children's development.
  • Health and safety, risk management and infection control.
  • Partnership working with families and other professionals.
  • Professional practice, teamwork and employability skills.

When does the course start?

September 2027

How is the Occupational Certificate: Early Years Practitioner course delivered?

The course is delivered through a combination of:

  • Classroom-based learning.
  • Practical activities in our Early Years practice room.
  • Industry placement in an early years setting.
  • Employer-led activities and projects.

You will complete a work placement which will enable you to develop your practical skills in an early years environment.

  • Entry requirements

    This course is only available to those aged 16-18.

    • GCSE English Language or Maths at grade 4-9 plus four GCSEs at grade 3-9 (one must be English Language or Maths).

    OR

    • Successful completion of a relevant Level 1 course with GCSE grade 3-9 in English Language and Maths, plus relevant work experience within the sector.

    You will need to attend an applicant event and have a successful DBS check.

    You will also need a positive attitude to learning and commitment to excellent attendance at both college and placement.

  • Assessment

    You will be assessed through a range of methods including:

    • Practical observations in placement.
    • Professional discussions.
    • Written assignments and workbooks.
    • Presentations and projects.
    • Portfolio evidence.
    • Placement reports.

    Assessment will demonstrate both your knowledge and practical competence in an early years setting.

  • Progression
  • Careers
  • Additional costs

    At West Notts College, our students benefit from excellent facilities and equipment across all campuses. However, some courses require students to purchase specific tools, equipment, or specialist clothing to fully participate in practical learning.

    Visit our kit lists page to see what clothing and equipment you’ll need, and start preparing for your studies in September.

    Visit the kit lists page

Disclaimer

Whilst every effort is made to ensure the information on the website is correct, some details may be subject to change. West Nottinghamshire College reserves the right to make amendments to the courses, dates, fees or other details, and to make cancellations or changes if numbers are insufficient. In the unfortunate situation that we have to cancel a course we will refund your fees in full, but we regret we are not able to offer any refund if you withdraw from your course or fail to start, and you will be liable to pay any outstanding fees that may be due.

Why choose us?

Excellent student support services

We’ve got a great student support network offering advice and guidance on careers and future employment, finance, health and welfare, additional learning support and much more.

Getting here couldn’t be easier!

Whether you travel by bus, train or on foot there are many different transport options available. You can also unleash your freedom with the West Notts College Travel Scheme which provides a flexible and great value bus travel service.

Campuses across Mansfield and Ashfield

We have eight campuses each boasting a number of state-of-the-art facilities.

Strong industry links

We’re always investing in college facilities to make sure you have access to the most up-to-date, industry-standard equipment. Our strong links with employers means you can secure work placements as part of your wider learning – providing you with vital industry experience and employability skills, getting you ready for the world of work.

Tutors who really know their industry

Most have worked in the industry they're teaching, so you'll learn the skills employers are looking for. They'll support and encourage you to achieve the best results possible.

LGBTQ+ celebration

We proudly celebrate LGBTQ+ diversity, including Pride. Our college is a supportive community that welcomes and embraces individuals of all sexual orientations and gender identities.

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