What does this qualification cover?

The Level 2 Technical Award in Child Development and Care provides learners with the opportunity to gain a vocational qualification that gives a basic introduction to the sector. It has been designed to meet the needs of learners from the age of 14 years. It includes the knowledge and understanding of child development and well-being necessary for working with children in a variety of settings. It is aimed at a range of learners who wish to be introduced to childcare and development of children aged 0-5 years. It also gives learners an insight into their preferred learning styles and assists in developing their ability to study

Who is it suitable for?

The qualification is suitable for a range of young learners in school or in college.

What are the entry requirements?

Learners must be at least 14 years old to complete this qualification. We do not set any other entry requirements but schools or colleges may have their own guidelines.

How is this qualification structured and assessed?

This qualification consists of 3 units:

• Unit 1 and unit 2 graded A*– D, assessed by an externally set, internally marked assessment task. Mandatory assessments for each unit will be subject to internal and external quality assurance
• Unit 3 graded A*-D, assessed by an externally set and externally marked synoptic scenario based short answer examination (component TACDC).

How long will it take to complete this qualification?

This qualification can usually be completed in two years or less.

What other qualifications would compliment this qualification?

Learners may wish to study the Level 2 Technical Award in Health and Social Care alongside this qualification as it serves as an introduction to the health and social care sector. Both of these qualifications will provide a starting point for learners to decide whether a career in child care and education and/or health and social care is right for them.

Do you need to be working to take this qualification?

This is a knowledge-only qualification, therefore no work placement is required.

What related qualifications can you progress to?

Learners will be able to progress to further relevant level 2 programmes of study or level 3 programmes of study including those from our Early Years Educator suite. Learners may also progress to an Apprenticeship route in early years or child care at either level 2 or level 3.

Funding for our qualifications

Find out more about funding for this and other qualifications on our funding page.

External assessment timetable

Please see the external assessment timetable for a breakdown of the assessment dates for this qualification.

Useful links

Regulations for the conduct of external assessment

Qualification specific instructions for delivery (QSID)

Flexibilities for 2022-23 awarding