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Date Published: 14/08/2025
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Why Work in Early Years or School Settings?
Working in early years or school environments is both rewarding and impactful. You'll play a vital role in shaping young minds, supporting their emotional and educational development, and helping them build a strong foundation for future learning.
Benefits of Working in Education:
- Job satisfaction from making a difference in children's lives.
- Flexible working hours, ideal for parents or those seeking work-life balance.
- Career progression opportunities in teaching, childcare and education support.
- High demand for qualified professionals across nurseries, schools and childcare settings.
Diploma for the Early Years Practitioner Level 2 (City & Guilds)
Course Overview
This Level 2 Diploma is a vocational qualification designed for individuals who are either working or aspiring to work in early years settings with children aged 0-5 years. It meets the Department of Education's criteria for a "full and relevant" Level 2 qualification, meaning it qualifies you to be counted in staff-to-child ratios in early years settings.
Key Features:
- Duration: 30 sessions (approx. 55 taught hours)
- Delivery: Online via Zoom
- Start Date: 29th September 2025
- End Date: 15th June 2026
- Tutor Support: Weekly sessions, tutorials and feedback
- Assessment: E-portfolio, assignments and workplace observations
- Cost: £2,503 (Concessions available, subject to eligibility)
What You'll Learn
The course covers a wide range of essential topics including:
- Safeguarding and child protection
- Health and safety in early years settings
- Supporting communication and language development
- Purposeful play and educational programmes
- Working with children with special educational needs
- Collaborating with parents and professionals
Who Is It For?
The course is ideal for:
- Early Years Assistants
- Preschool/play group assistants
- Aspiring childminders
- Anyone seeking a career in childcare or nursery education
You must be aged 19+ and either working or volunteering in an early years setting. A good level of English is required to complete assignments and participate in discussions.
Career Progression
Upon completion, learners can progress to:
- Level 3 Diploma for Early Years Educators
- Level 3 Diploma in Residential Childcare
- Level 3 Diploma in Healthcare Support
- Apprenticeships such as Early Years Educator or Children and Families Practitioner
This qualification opens doors to roles such as:
- Nursery Practitioner
- Preschool Assistant
- Classroom Assistant in early years
- Childminder
According to the Department of Education, the early years sector offers a clear career pathway, with opportunities to progress to Level 5 and Level 6 qualifications, including Early Years Lead Practitioner and Early Years Teacher status.
Find out more about the Diploma for the Early Years Practitioner Level 2 Course
Certificate in Supporting Teaching and Learning in Schools Level 2 (City & Guilds)
Course Overview
This Level 2 Certificate is designed for individuals who want to work as Teaching Assistants, Classroom Assistants or Learning Support Assistants in primary, secondary or special schools. It's a work-based qualification that combines theoretical learning with practical experience.
Key Features:
- Duration: 30 sessions (approx. 75 taught hours)
- Delivery: Online via Zoom
- Start Date: 1st October 2025
- End Date: 10th June 2026
- Assessment: E-portfolio, assignments and two workplace observations
- Cost: £1,296 (concessions available, subject to eligibility)
What You'll Learn
The course includes 11 mandatory units covering:
- Child and young person development
- Safeguarding and welfare
- Supporting positive behaviour
- Communication and professional relationships
- Equality, diversity and inclusion
- Supporting learning activities
- Health and safety in schools
- Improving team practice
Who Is It For?
This course is suitable for:
- Adults looking to start a career in education
- Volunteers in school settings
- Parents returning to work
- Career changers seeking meaningful employment
You must be aged 19+ and have a school placement (paid or voluntary) for at least one day per week. A good level of English is required for coursework and communication.
Career Progression
Successful learners can progress to:
- Level 3 Certificate or Diploma in Supporting Teaching and Learning
- Foundation degree in Education or Childcare
- Teacher Training Programmes
Career opportunities include:
- Teaching Assistant
- SEN Support Assistant
- Learning Mentor
- Behaviour Support Worker
This qualification is a stepping stone to higher education and long-term careers in teaching and education support. It's recognised nationally and valued by schools across the UK.
Find out more about the Certificate in Supporting Teaching and Learning in Schools Level 2 Course