University of Derby

Early Years Practitioner Level 2 (T Level Foundation)

University of DerbyBuxton Campus, United Kingdom

Course overview

Step into a rewarding career – perfect for 16–19-year-olds interested in working with children and the early years sector. Build a strong foundation – gain essential knowledge, skills, and behaviours to prepare for the Level 3 T Level or employment. Hands-on learning – study in classrooms, e-learning environments, and our dedicated Early Years simulation room to put theory into practice.

Develop specialist skills – plan and deliver learning activities, assess children’s development, and support children with SEND. Real-world experience – complete a minimum of 250 hours of industry placement with local early years organisations. Progress your career – upon completion, enter the workforce as a Level 2 Early Years Practitioner, or move on to Level 3 T Level, higher apprenticeships, or university.

Key highlights

  • Minimum 250 hours of industry placement with local early years organisations
  • Dedicated Early Years simulation room for putting theory into practice
  • Learn to plan and deliver children's learning activities
  • Develop skills in assessing children's development and supporting SEND
  • Qualifies graduates to work as a Level 2 Early Years Practitioner
  • Progression route to Level 3 T Level, higher apprenticeships or university

Entry requirements

Real-world experience – complete a minimum of 250 hours of industry placement with local early years organisations. Progress your career – upon completion, enter the workforce as a Level 2 Early Years Practitioner, or move on to Level 3 T Level, higher apprenticeships, or university.

Scholarships

  • Full Payment Discount

    If you pay your annual tuition fee in full ahead of enrolment, you will benefit from a £1,000 discount.

    Up to £1,000
  • Sports Scholarships - Individual and Team Sport Scholar

    Up to £3,000 fee subsidy and support services.

  • Sports Scholarships - Performance Team Sports Scholar

    Up to £3,000 fee subsidy and support services.

  • Talented Athlete Award

    Please contact the provider.

  • Vice-Chancellor's Scholarships

    Vice-Chancellor’s Scholarships - £2,000

    Up to £2,000

Careers this course leads to

  • Level 2 Early Years Practitioner
  • Nursery Assistant
  • Early Years Assistant
  • Teaching Assistant
  • Childcare Assistant

Admission

Applications are made through AHZ at no cost. Share your transcripts, English test scores and personal statement, and your AHZ Counsellor will review your profile, submit your application to University of Derby, and guide you through interview, offer, CAS and visa — right up to enrolment.

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