Level 2 Diploma for Early Years Practitioners Overview
Get Qualified with a Diploma for Early Years Practitioners!
Accredited Vocational Qualification (NVQ)
Department for Education (DfE) approved
Nationally recognised qualification
Specialised pathways available
Supports career progression

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Online Access
Knowledge tasks are available online for flexible access at your convenience
Questions Answered
The objective of this qualification is to support a role in the workplace. It is aimed at those working in early years settings covering the age range of 0 to 5-year-olds (and children up to 7 years old) and aims to provide learners with the knowledge and competence to work as early years educators. Learners may work as early years educators, nursery nurses or child minders in children’s centres, pre-schools, nurseries, full day care centres or reception classes in primary schools.
This qualification includes the combined knowledge and competency elements and is recognised as formal occupational competence in the role at level 2.
You must be an experienced early years educator working within a nursery, child minders, children’s centre, pre-school, reception classes in a primary school or equivalent to enroll upon this qualification as on-site observation within an Early Years setting is required in order to fulfill all the relevant criteria.
This depends on the level of your prior knowledge and experience combined with how much time and effort you put into completing the work.
It can take anywhere from a few months to a year or more to complete this qualification but be assured your Assessor will be responsive to those who want to complete quickly and support you to progress fast.
You will achieve a fully accredited, nationally recognised Level 2 Diploma for Early Years Practitioners (England) (RQF)
This qualification is approved by the Department for Education (DfE) as meeting the level 2 early years practitioner (EYP) qualification criteria for the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) Statutory Framework. This means that the qualification meets the minimum knowledge, understanding and skills that a level 2 early years practitioner needs to demonstrate to be qualified to support young children from birth to 5 years old. Learners that achieve this qualification can be included in the EYFS staff: child ratios at level 2.
The natural progression from this qualification is the Level 3 Diploma for Early Years Educators (England) (RQF) for supervisory or seniors working in the Early Years sector or those looking to formally record their level of occupational competence.
There are no formal prerequisites for enrolling upon this qualification although candidates are required to communicate with colleagues, clients and managers to effectively perform their role. A good grasp of English reading and writing is also beneficial as the course involves written questions and answers.
You will be inducted to the qualification and the e-portfolio by your appointed assessor who will explain the qualification and guide you through the entire qualification process step by step. Your assessor is your main point of contact throughout the qualification and is on hand to answer any questions that you may have.
Underpinning knowledge questions are available via the e-portfolio which a provides 24/7 access to accommodate busy lives and shift work.
Timing of on site assessments will be discussed with your assessor and planned at a convenient time when naturally occurring evidence, relevant to the unit being assessed can be observed. This ensures that ensuring that each observation visit yields a good amount of evidence which contributes to the progress and completion of your qualification.
Underpinning knowledge is completed on e-portfolio where you will find your knowledge questions and your assessment plans. You will be able to see your overall qualification progress as each of the units are completed.
Practical evidence will be gathered at observation visits where you will be observed carrying out your role. Your assessor may also seek witness testimonies, work product evidence, reflective accounts or carry out professional discussions to fulfil all criteria.
The qualification is considered complete once all questions have been answered satisfactorily. There is no final examination required.
- North of England
- The Midlands
- London & Greater London
Subject to assessor availability. Contact us for more information.
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Ratings & Reviews
What people think
EXCELLENT
Based on 157 reviews
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chibuzor janeloveth umeh (lassloveth)Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
I recently completed my NVQ Level 2 with Pentagon Skills, and I’m very pleased with the experience. My assessor, Joanne, was supportive, helpful and always provided clear guidance and feedback throughout the qualification. I really appreciated her patience and encouragement, which helped me complete my qualification successfully. Thank you, Joanne and Pentagon Skills!Posted on Google![]()
Bridget MusarurwaTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
My assessor was amazing! Very supportive, patient and always explained everything clearly. She helped me all the way through my Level 3 Diploma in Adult Care and I have now completed it. I highly recommend her — thank you so much, Joanne xPosted on Google![]()
Idemudia BridgetTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
Pentagon skills limited know what they are doing. My approach to work after my training has changed for the best. I do work professionally now.Posted on Google![]()
Diane SwitzerTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
I would like to share my experience of working towards and passing Level 2 in Health and Social Care. Under the guidance of tutor Joanne at Pentagon Skills, I drew on my work skills and all that I have learnt about caring for Service Users. When I was feeling stuck, stressed or struggling, I knew I could turn to Joanne, either over the telephone or Whatsapp and she responded with compassion which soothed any anxiety and helpful comments to improve my work. The reflections I provided in my units were cathartic and I realised how much I had learned from people. The wide range of topics in studying for Level 2 were informative and a valuable learning experience. Most of all, I felt like I could be myself, which helped my work flow and be of a good standard to pass.Posted on Google![]()
Abbey Mcbride-PrescottTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
Completed my level 3 Adult care course along side full time employment. Joanne was great. She was very clear on deadlines to ensure I meet my finish date and the feedback she give is incredible. Highly recommend 👌Posted on Google![]()
Bina NepaliTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
I have had Joanne Hamer as my assessor for my NVQ-4. She has been extremely helpful throughout the whole process and her approach was fair and consistent. I really appreciate her being so professional at all times. She gave clear, thoughtful and constructive feedback that helped me to improve positively and progress smoothly. I am so thankful to her professional guidance and kind support throughout.Posted on Google![]()
md abdullah al aminTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
I have very good experience with pentagon skills. Specifically my assessor Joanne she is fantastic and really helpful throughout the journey. I would recommend for all learners. Happy learning.
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