ICTQual Level 2 Award in Early Learning and Childcare

Embarking on a journey in early childhood education and care is a rewarding path filled with opportunities to make a profound impact on the lives of young children. For those seeking to deepen their knowledge and skills in this dynamic field, the Level 2 Award in Early Learning and Childcare serves as a gateway to further professional development and career advancement.

The Level 2 Award in Early Learning and Childcare is an intermediate qualification designed to provide learners with a comprehensive understanding of early childhood education and care principles and practices. Building upon the foundational concepts introduced at Level 1, this award equips individuals with advanced knowledge and practical skills essential for working effectively with young children in various early years settings.

Level 2 Award in Early Learning and Childcare is designed to enhance the skills and professionalism of individuals working in the early years sector, equipping them with the knowledge, practical skills, and confidence to provide high-quality care and education to young children and support their holistic development.

Level 2 Award in Early Learning and Childcare offers a pathway to personal and professional growth. With its advanced study units, practical skills development, and opportunities for specialization, this qualification equips you with the knowledge, confidence, and passion to thrive in the dynamic world of early years practice.

Course overview

Level 2 Award in Early Learning and Childcare

To enrol in ICTQual AB Level 2 Award in Early Learning and Childcare, learner must meet the following entry requirements:

  • Age Requirement: Learners must be at least 16 years old at the time of registration.
  • Educational Background: It is recommended that learners have successfully completed a Level 1 Award in Early Learning and Childcare or an equivalent introductory qualification. This ensures learners have foundational knowledge of early years principles and practices.
  • Work Experience: While previous work experience in childcare is not mandatory, learners who have practical experience in early years settings may find it easier to relate theory to real-world practice.
  • English Proficiency: Learners should have good written and spoken English skills to understand course materials, complete assignments, and communicate effectively in childcare settings. Non-native English speakers are advised to have an IELTS score of 5.5 or equivalent.
  • Additional Requirement: Ability to demonstrate professional conduct, patience, and empathy when working with children and families.

This qualification, the ICTQual Level 2 Award in Early Learning and Childcare, consists of 7 mandatory units.

  1. Child Development and Well-being
  2. Supporting Early Learning and Play
  3. Promoting Positive Behavior
  4. Observation, Assessment, and Planning
  5. Safeguarding and Child Protection
  6. Special Educational Needs and Disabilities
  7. Outdoor Learning and Nature Play

Here are the learning outcomes for each study unit of Level 2 Award in Early Learning and Childcare:

Child Development and Well-being

  • Understand the stages of physical, emotional, social, and cognitive development in children aged 0–5.
  • Identify factors that influence healthy development, including nutrition, environment, and family support.
  • Recognise early signs of developmental delays or additional needs and respond appropriately.
  • Support children’s wellbeing through age-appropriate activities and nurturing interactions.
  • Promote confidence, self-esteem, and emotional resilience in children.

Supporting Early Learning and Play

  • Plan and deliver structured and unstructured play activities that support learning and development.
  • Use play as a tool to encourage curiosity, creativity, and problem-solving skills.
  • Adapt activities to suit individual children’s interests, abilities, and learning styles.
  • Encourage independence, decision-making, and social interaction through play.
  • Evaluate the effectiveness of play-based learning experiences.

Promoting Positive Behavior

  • Understand the principles of positive behaviour management in early years settings.
  • Implement strategies to encourage appropriate behaviour and social skills.
  • Recognise and respond effectively to challenging behaviours.
  • Promote consistency, fairness, and respect in interactions with children.
  • Reflect on personal practice to support behavioural development.

Observation, Assessment, and Planning

  • Observe children’s development and behaviour systematically and objectively.
  • Record observations accurately to monitor progress and inform planning.
  • Use assessment information to plan personalised learning activities.
  • Evaluate the impact of planned activities on children’s learning and wellbeing.
  • Maintain confidentiality and adhere to professional standards in record keeping.

Safeguarding and Child Protection

  • Understand key principles of safeguarding and child protection in early years settings.
  • Recognise signs of abuse, neglect, or harm in children.
  • Apply organisational policies and procedures for safeguarding effectively.
  • Respond appropriately to safeguarding concerns and report them to the correct authorities.
  • Promote a safe, secure, and supportive environment for all children.

Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND)

  • Understand the different types of special educational needs and disabilities.
  • Recognise the importance of early intervention and personalised support.
  • Adapt learning and play activities to meet the individual needs of children with SEND.
  • Work collaboratively with families and professionals to support children’s development.
  • Promote inclusivity and equality within early years settings.

Outdoor Learning and Nature Play

  • Understand the benefits of outdoor learning and nature play for children’s development.
  • Plan and deliver safe, stimulating outdoor activities that encourage exploration and learning.
  • Support physical, emotional, and social development through outdoor experiences.
  • Assess and manage risks to ensure children’s safety while promoting independence.
  • Encourage environmental awareness, curiosity, and creativity through interaction with nature.


Completing the Level 2 Award in Early Learning and Childcare provides learners with a strong foundation to develop both academically and professionally within the early years sector. This qualification equips learners with the essential skills, knowledge, and practical experience required to support children’s learning, development, and wellbeing effectively. By combining theory with hands-on practice, learners are prepared to make a positive impact in childcare settings and take the first steps toward a long-term, rewarding career in early years education.

Progression to Higher-Level Qualifications
  • Learners can progress to Level 3 Diplomas in Early Learning and Childcare, which offer a more in-depth understanding of child development, behaviour management, curriculum planning, and safeguarding.
  • Level 3 courses often include specialist modules such as supporting children with special educational needs (SEN), managing challenging behaviour, leadership in early years settings, and health and wellbeing in childcare.
  • After completing Level 3, learners may choose to advance to Level 4 or 5 qualifications, which focus on leadership, management, and operational responsibilities within early years education. These higher-level qualifications prepare learners for roles such as room leader, early years manager, or senior practitioner, where they can influence policy, manage teams, and contribute to high-quality childcare provision.
Career Opportunities
  • Graduates of the Level 2 Award can enter the workforce in a variety of entry-level and intermediate childcare roles, such as:
    • Early years practitioner or nursery assistant
    • Playgroup support worker or classroom helper
    • Childminder or childcare support assistant
  • The qualification opens opportunities in diverse settings including nurseries, pre-schools, primary schools, after-school clubs, community childcare programmes, and childcare charities.
  • With additional experience and training, learners can progress to specialist roles, such as:
    • Special educational needs (SEN) support worker
    • Senior nursery officer or team leader
    • Room leader or early years supervisor
    • Outdoor education facilitator or nature play coordinator
Professional Development and Skills Enhancement
  • Learners gain a wide range of transferable and practical skills highly valued in the childcare sector, including:
    • Observation and assessment of children’s development and behaviour
    • Planning and delivering age-appropriate learning and play activities
    • Effective communication with children, families, and colleagues
    • Health, safety, and safeguarding awareness
    • Supporting positive behaviour and social development
  • The qualification also develops professional attitudes, such as patience, empathy, responsibility, and teamwork, which are essential for career growth.
  • Graduates are well-positioned to pursue professional registration, accreditation, or specialised training, ensuring compliance with early years statutory requirements and enhancing career prospects.
Long-Term Career Potential
  • By completing the Level 2 Award, learners lay the groundwork for a long-term and fulfilling career in early years education.
  • The combination of academic knowledge, practical experience, and professional skills allows learners to become highly competent and confident in their roles, making a significant contribution to children’s early learning and development.
  • Career progression can lead to senior leadership positions, curriculum development roles, or specialised sectors within childcare, including inclusion support, mental health, and family liaison services.

Overall, the Level 2 Award in Early Learning and Childcare provides learners with a comprehensive, practical, and professional pathway to a successful career in early years education, ensuring opportunities for continuous learning, career advancement, and meaningful impact on children’s lives.

FAQS

The Level 2 Award is suitable for individuals who have completed a Level 1 qualification in Early Learning and Childcare or have relevant experience in the field. It is ideal for early years practitioners who wish to enhance their skills and knowledge, as well as individuals looking to pursue a career in early childhood education and care.

candidates are typically required to have completed a Level 1 qualification in Early Learning and Childcare or have relevant experience in the field. Candidates are typically required to be at least 16 years old and have a basic level of English language proficiency. No prior experience or formal qualifications are usually necessary.

Level 2 Award in Early Learning and Childcare is 2 Day 6 Hours Training program . As this Training program have mandatory assessment which will be conducted through Approved Training Centres.

Level 2 Award in Early Learning and Childcare course is offered in various formats, including online, in-person, or a combination of both. Participants can choose the format that best fits their schedule and learning preferences. But final decision is made by ATC.

Yes, assessments include quizzes consisting of 100 multiple-choice questions (MCQs). These assessments are designed to evaluate participants’ comprehension of course material and their capacity to apply concepts in practical situations. It is mandatory to pass assessments with a minimum score of 75%