Children’s Care, Learning and Development - Level 2 Apprenticeship

Essentials

Duration: 1 Year Full-time
Start date: 4th September 2023
End date: 21st June 2024

Course fee: FREE (Eligibility criteria may apply)

What is an Apprenticeship?
As an apprenticeship you are employed as full-time members of staff and typically work for an employer three to four days a week. One or two days a week is spent at college, studying for nationally-recognised qualifications in the same profession as the apprenticeship.

• You must find your own employer
• Some employers may require GCSEs on entry
• It might be possible to do an apprenticeship with a current employer
• You work all year round, but your College classes run from September to July
• Employers pay for the day the apprentice is in college, meaning you will receive a full-time wage at least in accordance with the national minimum wage

Details and restrictions

• Apprentices must be aged 16 or above. Restrictions apply for those over 25. (Age restrictions currently under review by the Department for the Economy)
• Employers must be based in Northern Ireland
• Apprenticeships are part-funded through the Northern Ireland European Social Fund (ESF) and the Department for the Economy (DfE)

Course Content

The Level 2 Apprenticeship offers a Level 2 CACHE qualification which is  is designed to provide students with an awareness and appreciation of the children and young people sector and the differing childcare employment opportunities that are available. Students will be supported by professional staff who are experienced and enthusiastic about children’s care, learning and development. 

The course features a combination of work-based as well as classroom learning.  Students will be guided in developing understanding and key skills which will be essential in order to secure future employment in the sector.  The course includes the study of important childcare theory; best practice and essential employment skills including communication and teamwork.   

There are 8 units to complete on the level 2 Diploma CCLD. 

Examples of these include: 

• Context, principles and values that underpin practice 
• Communication and partnership working   
• Safeguarding children 
• Keeping children safe, healthy and well   
• Support children’s personal care and nutrition   
• Supporting children’s development 
• Support children’s play, learning and development   
• Contribute to the support of children with disabilities and/or special need 

Special Features

This one year qualification has been developed for Northern Ireland (only). 

Assessment Methods

All units will be internally assessed using a range of methods which will include direct observation by a tutor or assessor within the workplace, written assignments and professional discussion.