he NCFE CACHE Level 2 Technical Occupational Entry for the Early Years Practitioner (Diploma) is designed 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.
It includes both knowledge and skills that meet the Department for Education Early Years Practitioner (DfE EYP) criteria in full and map to the knowledge, skills and behaviours (KSBs) within the Early Years Educator occupational standard in England.
English and Maths are also integral as these skills are essential for your employability.
You could progress to the T level in Education and Early Years: Early Years Educator or a related subject. Alternatively, you can progress into employment in a range of Early Years settings.
This qualification allows the learner to count towards the Level 2 ratio as a qualified Level 2 Early Years Practitioner within the Early Years Workforce.
Learners may work under supervision in a variety of roles such as: Nursery Practitioner, Classroom Assistant, Pre School-Practitioner
What you'll learn
In this course, you will complete fourteen mandatory units that are a combination of placement skills and written evidence.
- EYP 1: Roles and responsibilities of the Early Years Practitioner
- EYP 2: Health and safety of babies and young children in the early years
- EYP 3: Equality, diversity and inclusive practice in Early Years Settings
- EYP 4: Safeguarding, protection and welfare of babies and young children in Early Years Settings
- EYP 5: Understand how to support children’s development
- EYP 6: Support care routines for babies and young children
- EYP 7: Support the planning and delivery of activities, purposeful play opportunities and educational programmes
- EYP 8: Promote play in an Early Years Setting
- EYP 9: Support the wellbeing of babies and young children for healthy lifestyles
- EYP 10: Support babies and young children to be physically active
- EYP 11: Support the needs of babies and young children with Special Educational Needs and Disability (SEND)
- EYP 12: Promote positive behaviour in Early Years Settings
- EYP 13: Partnership working in the early years
- EYP 14: Support the needs of the child preparing for school
How you'll learn and be assessed
Combine theoretical study with practical experience as you prepare for a career in Early Years. This Diploma helps you gain knowledge through observational studies, practical work with children and a range of classroom-based activities which combine theoretical and practical training.
Combining days at college with placement days in Early Years settings, you will be encouraged to link the theory of care for children with your developing practice to support your own skills.
English and Maths are also integral as these skills are essential for your employability.
Assessment is through continual observation in placement and assignments marked by your tutor. You will be assessed in placement with both babies aged 0 – 2 years and children aged 2 – 5 years.
Progression
You could progress to the T Level Technical Qualification in Education and Early Years (Level 3) or a related subject. Alternatively, you can progress into employment in a range of Early Years settings.
Entry requirements
You will require four GCSEs grade 3 (D) or above, including English Language at a grade (C) 4 and Maths at grade 3.
Important: DBS Requirement
To ensure the safety and wellbeing of children, all students must obtain an enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check before starting their placement.
- A DBS check is mandatory for this course
Please note: You will not be able to begin your placement until your DBS clearance is approved.
Required Documentation
When enrolling and applying for your DBS, you will need to provide original identification documents. These may include:
Proof of identity (one or more):
- Valid passport
- UK driving licence (photocard)
- Birth certificate
Proof of address (dated within the last 3 months):
- Bank or building society statement with YOUR name on the document, not your parents’ name.
Additional documents (if required):
- National Insurance number
- Visa or residency permit (if applicable)
Monday 24th and Tuesday 25th August 2026, Two sessions per day. 9:30am–12:00pm and 1:00pm–4:30pm.
Please note that the DBS documentation will need to be completed by 4th September 2026 in order to start the course
