Course information
If you're looking to work with children in nurseries, schools or early years settings, this course is an ideal next step. The NCFE CACHE Level 2 Certificate in Working with Children in Early Years and Primary Settings provides you with the knowledge, understanding and practical skills needed to support children’s learning and development. It's designed for those who are either new to the sector or looking to build on their experience to work in a supporting role.
Throughout the course, you'll explore key areas such as child development, safeguarding, communication and supporting children through play and learning. The course includes both classroom-based learning and a placement in an early years or primary setting, allowing you to apply your knowledge in real-life environments. You'll be supported by experienced tutors who will guide your progress and help you build the confidence and competence required for working with children.
Whether you're aiming to work in a nursery, become a teaching assistant or progress into further study at Level 3, this course provides a strong foundation for a career in early years and education. It also supports progression into apprenticeships or employment in childcare, education or support work roles within schools and early years settings.
When courses start
Date: Tuesday 4 November 2025 to Wednesday 9 June 2026
Time: 9:45am to 2:15pm
Duration: 24 weeks (1 class per week with a placement requirement)
What you will learn
This qualification covers the essential knowledge and skills needed to work with children from birth to 11 years. Units include:
Learn how children grow and develop physically, emotionally and socially, and how to support their progress through key stages.
Understand the role of play in learning and development and explore how to create engaging play-based learning opportunities.
Gain a clear understanding of how to protect children, recognise signs of harm or abuse and respond to concerns in line with safeguarding procedures.
Develop strategies to encourage positive behaviour, manage challenging situations and promote emotional wellbeing.
Learn how to communicate effectively with children, colleagues and families and build strong relationships in educational settings.
Explore how to maintain a safe and healthy environment for children by understanding risk assessments, hygiene practices and emergency procedures.
How you will be assessed
This is a work-based qualification and you will be assessed whilst working with children, young people, their families and colleagues. You must be working in a real childcare setting on a full time or part time basis and in paid or voluntary work. There are no formal exams. You’ll receive feedback and support throughout to help you meet the required standards.
Progression opportunities
Completing this qualification enables progression to a Level 3 Early Years Educator qualification or a Level 3 Certificate in Supporting Teaching and Learning. It also prepares you for roles such as nursery assistant, early years practitioner or teaching assistant within school and nursery environments.
Entry requirements
You will also need to arrange your own 6 hour nursery placement and bring a letter confirming this prior to enrolling. Before enroling you will need to complete a short English and Maths assessment to make sure this course is suitable for you.
If you’d prefer to speak with someone, you can also book an assessment session by contacting our Learning Support team on 0208 496 2974.
Get in Touch
Whether you need to get in touch to join a course, let us know if you're unable to attend your course, raise a query, let us know your feedback or anything else, contact us using the options below. You can also talk to an adviser live by clicking on the green speech bubble in the bottom right of the screen.
Phone
020 8496 2974Address
Queens Road Learning Centre97 Queens Road
Walthamstow
London
E17 8QR