Key Facts

Level 2 Diploma for the Early Years Practitioner - T-level transition year

The aim of this qualification is to provide learners with the knowledge and understanding of babies and young children from birth to 7 years of age with applied knowledge in the early years, 0-5 years. The qualification content meets the Department for Education's (DfE) Level 2 full and relevant criteria for a Level 2 Early Years Practitioner in the workforce.

As well as developing theoretical knowledge, students will also develop critical key skills such as teamwork and communication to support progression into employment or the T-level in Childcare and Education.

  • Entry Requirements


    We will invite you to a Meet the Tutor event where you will receive information, advice, and guidance about the course you have applied for. This will be an opportunity for you to gain valuable information about the course and give you the opportunity to ask any questions you may have.

    DBS (police) check is required prior to any placement offer.

    5 x GCSE's at 4 or above. Your GCSE profile must include English at 4 or above - may include Maths.

    Learners will need to be working, volunteering or on practical placement to show competence in both knowledge and skills. Learners must be fit to complete up to 250 hours placement whilst undertaking this qualification.

    Your placement opportunity must allow for skills application with babies and young children sufficient to meet the assessment criteria for the qualification.

    We are firmly committed to finding the right course for you to ensure you can flourish! Talk to us today if you have any concerns about the application process, we are here to support you on your journey.

  • Course Content


    Each unit will enable learners to gain a broad background of understanding of the early year's sector and the vocational skills and knowledge required for employment. Learners will develop skills in the following units

    -Roles and responsibilities of the early years practitioner -Health and safety of babies and young children in the early years -Equality, diversity and inclusive practice in early years settings -Safeguarding, protection and welfare of babies and young children in early years settings -Understand how to support children's development -Support care routines for babies and young children -Support the planning and delivery of activities, purposeful play opportunities and educational programmes -Promote play in an early years setting -Support well-being of babies and young children for healthy lives -Support babies and young children to be physically active -Support the needs of babies and young children with special educational needs and disability -Promote positive behaviour in early years settings -Partnership working in the early years -Support the needs of the child in preparing for school

  • Progression Next Steps


    This qualification allows progression on to the T-level - Education and Childcare qualification and other relevant early years courses. It provides routes into employment in the early years and childcare sector as an Early Years Practitioner with licence to practice.

    There are lots of opportunities available to you to progress across the South Thames Colleges Group and into the world beyond education.

    During your time with us you will have access to a dedicated team of careers and education advisors who will help you as you take the next steps towards achieving your goals.

  • Additional Information


    The programme commences in September and continues for one year. Attendance is two days a week at college in addition to a mandatory one day placement in an early years setting. This can also be working or volunteering. A minimum of 250 hours must be reached to achieve the qualification.

    The College reserves the right to only run a course if enrolment has reached minimum requirements. For further information or to register your interest for this course, please contact This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. Have you had a look at Kingston College social media? #earlyyearskingston @KCUpdate

  • Course Structure


    Learners will be assessed through internal task based assignments.