This is a full time course and the qualification is workshop and practice-based.

Completion of a minimum 280 placement hours will be required.

The qualification will cover the core knowledge and understanding required to work within the children's care, play, learning and development sectors. By studying this qualification, learners will:

• Develop their knowledge and understanding of the core principles and values which underpin children's care, play, learning and development practice,
• Understand how legislation, national policies, guidance and frameworks support children’s care, play, learning and development,
• Appreciate factors that impact upon the health, well-being, learning and development of children,
• Consider the roles, responsibilities and accountabilities of early years and childcare workers and understand the purpose of legislation, national policies, procedures and codes of conduct and practice in relation to the safeguarding of children.

The course will also include the following:

• Tutorial Program
• Progress Reviews
• Literacy and numeracy development through various pathways: GCSE resits, Agored Qualifications, Essential Skills Wales and WEST
• First Aid at Work
• Food Safety

This course will cover content which can be sensitive and triggering for some students. Topics such as abuse, safeguarding, mental health and addiction are all covered with some areas being taught in more detail than others.

Completion of the Level 2 Children’s Care, Play, Learning and Development qualification enables learners to work as a qualified Level 2 childcare worker in a supervised capacity. The qualification could also lead to:

• Progression to further education,
• Level 3 Children’s Care, Play, Learning and Development: Practice,
• Level 3 Children’s Care, Play, Learning and Development: Practice and Theory,
• Level 2/3 Diploma in Playwork

The core element will be assessed through an externally marked multiple choice question paper and an exam. 

The practice element will be assessed using a portfolio of evidence that includes observation of practice and an exam.

This qualification is available to be assessed through the medium of Welsh and English.

All applicants will need a positive reference. Suitability for this course will be assessed at interview.

An applicant for the level two will need to have:

A minimum of 3 GCSEs grades A* - C including English language or Welsh first language. Mathematics needs to be E grade or above and a clear Enhanced DBS.

• Enrolment Fee - £25 per year
• Enhanced DBS - £44
• Uniform – approximate cost Hoodie £20, Polo Shirt £12