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  • Course Type
    16-19 Courses
  • Course Code
    EY203
  • Campus
    Twelve Quays
  • Start Date
    7th Sep
  • Level
    Level 2
  • Duration
    1 year

Throughout the course, learners will gain knowledge and insight into a wide range of topics essential to working with children, including:

Safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people · Understanding child development in the early years

  •  The importance of play in supporting learning and development
  • Meeting the basic care needs of babies and young children
  • Supporting healthy lifestyles in children 
  • Craft activities to support creativity and development 
  • Rights and responsibilities in relation to parenting
  • Promoting equality, diversity, and inclusion in childcare settings 
  •  Respecting and valuing young children

This qualification also helps students make informed decisions about their future by offering a realistic introduction to the roles and responsibilities involved in caring for children and young people.

Whether you are starting out in the childcare sector or exploring a potential career path, this course provides the essential skills and understanding needed to take your next steps with confidence...

  • Course Details

    The Level 2 Certificate in Introducing Caring for Children and Young People provides learners with a foundational understanding of childcare, early education, and the development and well-being of children and young people.

  • Entry Guidelines

    • You will need 4 GCSE's at Grade 3 or above. One of the 4 GCSE's to be Maths or English Language at Grade 3 (or Functional Skill level 1) to study at this level.
    • If you have a beginner/Introductory qualification in the subject you want to study and a maths or English Language GCSE at Grade 3 (or Functional Skill level 1) you can study at this level.
    • Entry requirements for Level 2 courses in some sectors may be more specific. If you're unsure whether you meet these requirements, don't worry — we can help you find a suitable course that aligns with your skills and experience.
    • Satisfactory DBS


    If English is not your first language, you may need an assessment before enrolling on this course. To discuss further, please contact the ESOL department on 0151 551 7144.

  • Where can I progress to?

    When you have successfully completed your course you may be able to progress (ensuring entry requirements are met) into the CACHE Level 2 Early Years EY202 or Supporting Teaching and Learning EY204 to gain a vocation qualification for employment.

    You could progress to these Wirral Met courses:

  • Timetable

    You'll be based at our modern Twelve Quays Campus, close to the waterfront, for four days each week—taking part in your Early Years and Education studies alongside your GCSE Maths and English Language lessons. You'll also spend one day a week in a work placement relevant to your course, gaining valuable real-world experience as you build the skills and knowledge for your future.

    You will receive your individual timetable at the start of your course.

  • Equipment Required

    To learn effectively on your course you will need to use certain items of equipment and undertake particular activities as part of your studies.

    To further enhance your learning experience the following will be required:

    • Uniform
    • Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) Check Certificate

    These come at an additional cost.

    If you need support with these costs, don't worry, click on the link below and complete a bursary application form. https://www.wmc.ac.uk/student-support/financial-support/bursaries-loans

    Equipment purchased will be yours to keep and you will be able to use them for practice at home and in your future career.

  • Assessment Methods

    All units will be internally assessed using a range of methods. This could include direct observation within the workplace, a portfolio of evidence, written assignments or a task set by CACHE.

Childcare Case Study Kian Bough

Kian Bough

Childcare & Development Student

I picked Wirral Met because of the work experience opportunities. I want to become a social worker to make a positive impact on a child's life. I was told I wouldn’t make it to college, but here I am in my second year, about to start a degree in childcare – keep set on your goals and keep doing your best.

Hi, I’m Ailz. What I love most about education is the opportunity to make a genuine difference to people’s lives, help them recognise their own potential, and open doors to new careers and pathways. I began my career teaching English in Further Education, before becoming a mentor for trainee teachers through their placement years. I really enjoyed mentoring and coaching trainees, helping them develop their practice and discover their own strengths as teachers. This led me into teacher education, where I now work as a Programme Lead, supporting the next generation of teachers in the Further Education and Skills sector.

I care deeply about social mobility, the importance of positive relationships, and helping students feel confident and engaged in their learning. I’m a nurturing and approachable teacher educator, and I’m committed to ensuring that every trainee I work with feels encouraged, valued, and supported as they develop their practice.

I’m Sasha. What I enjoy most about working in education is helping people build confidence and realise their full potential. I spent 13 years working as a teaching assistant and Learning Support Assistant before moving into teaching Health and Social Care and Access courses with learners aged 16 and over. These experiences shaped my belief in the importance of positive relationships and adapting teaching to meet individual needs.

Mentoring trainee teachers and coaching colleagues sparked my interest in teacher education, which I moved into in 2024. I enjoy helping trainees connect theory with classroom practice, try out new approaches and find their own confidence as teachers. I aim to create a supportive space where they can ask questions, reflect honestly and feel comfortable seeking advice.

I have a degree in Psychology, a master’s in Mental Health, a PGCE, the National Professional Qualification in Leading Teacher Development and a Postgraduate Certificate in Coaching and Mentoring in Education. These studies continue to inform my interests in inclusive teaching, wellbeing, and supporting others to develop their practice.