Government funding options may be available to cover the cost of the course, depending on your circumstances and the funding available for the course. We are unable to offer funding to those currently enrolled on an apprenticeship. To find out if you’re eligible, please make an enquiry.
Please note; if a course is listed as ‘free’ this will be subject to meeting residency eligibility.
If you're passionate about giving children the best start in life, the Level 2 Diploma for Early Years Practitioner at South Devon College is your ideal first step into the childcare and education sector. Designed specifically for adults aged 19 and over, this nationally-recognised qualification gives you the knowledge and practical experience to begin a rewarding career working with children from birth to seven years, with a strong focus on the early years age group (0–5 years). You will develop essential skills in safeguarding, health and safety, equality and diversity, and understand the roles and responsibilities of early years practitioners.
The course is fully aligned with the Department for Education’s (DfE) requirements for Level 2 Early Years Practitioners in the workforce, ensuring that your learning meets the standards expected by employers. A key part of the course involves completing at least 250 hours of practical placement, where you’ll apply your knowledge in real early years settings, gaining hands-on experience supporting the learning and development of babies and young children.
You’ll attend College one day per week over one academic year, combining classroom-based learning with practical placement. Upon completion, you’ll be ready to take on a supervised role such as a nursery or pre-school practitioner, and you’ll also have the option to progress onto the Level 3 Early Years Educator course or related Level 3 qualifications. You can also continue your journey into higher education with approved progression routes to Foundation Degrees at University Centre South Devon.
You must have a GCSE Grade 3(D) in English
You must have a GCSE Grade 3(D) in Maths
Safeguarding
Health and safety
Equality and diversity
Roles and responsibilities of an Early Years Practitioner
Early years edcuation
Care needs for children
Through dedication and hard work I have steadily climbed the career ladder over the years while attaining a Level 3 position with Mama Bear’s in 2019.
Daisy Gray
“I chose the T level because I knew I would enjoy the combination of practical and theory, so I could put what I learned in college into practice in my industry placement at a local primary school, whilst developing new skills.
“The staff are also amazingly supportive in getting you through the course – they support students so well with weekly one-to-one meetings with our tutors to talk through issues.”
“When I started the T level I knew I wanted to specialise and I looked into Norland and the amazing opportunities that came with it. I immediately knew it was where I saw myself in the future.
“The college staff were incredibly supportive and went above and beyond in helping me work out what to do – they informed us about all of the options available to us after the course and gave us guidance so we could make fully-informed decisions.”
At South Devon College, our Children, Society and Education programmes provide the perfect foundation for a fulfilling career in early years education and childcare. Whether you aspire to work in nurseries, pre-schools, or specialist roles, our courses are designed to help you make a lasting, positive impact on children’s lives.
You’ll study in realistic learning environments, including our simulated nursery and pre-school training spaces, which reflect the settings you’ll eventually work in. Here, you’ll gain practical experience in child development, play-based learning, safeguarding, early literacy and numeracy, equipping you with skills that employers truly value.
Our courses are delivered by experienced practitioners with expertise in the sector. They’ll support and guide you throughout your learning journey, drawing on real-world expertise. You’ll also benefit from on-site work experience opportunities at Mama Bear’s Day Nursery, located right here at the College, offering a seamless transition from theory to practice.
In addition, many of our students complete placements in local nurseries and early years settings, gaining valuable hands-on experience. We’re also proud that previous graduates have gone on to train as prestigious Norland Nannies, reflecting the strength and quality of our childcare pathway.
We have courses to suit everyone so if you haven't found exactly what you're looking for yet, we recommend you take a look at the following courses. We've selected these for you based on your interests.
At South Devon College, student life is more than just studying – it’s about feeling supported, connected, and ready for the future. With excellent student support services, including wellbeing and mental health support, careers advice, and financial guidance, we’re here to help you every step of the way.
Getting here is easy with affordable travel options, including discounted bus and train passes. Our campus community is welcoming and vibrant, with clubs, activities, and a dedicated Student Union ensuring you make the most of your time with us.
