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Level 2 · Online flexible learning · Childcare & education

Free Level 2 Introducing Caring for Children Course

A seven-unit entry-level childcare certificate covering development, safeguarding, play, nutrition and sharing learning experiences.

Government funding may be available to eligible adults. The training provider confirms eligibility, availability and enrolment.

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Adult training for early years and childcare roles in the UK.

Quick answer

What is the Level 2 Introducing Caring for Children course?

It is an online Level 2 Certificate in Introducing Caring for Children and Young People, usually studied over about 7 weeks. Seven units cover development, safeguarding, play and nutrition. It is entry-level and does not qualify you as an Early Years Educator. The provider Pre-Check confirms funding.

Course overview

Learning Curve Group describes this as a first step into early years: child development, the importance of play, and how to safeguard children and young people.

It is an entry-level qualification. LCG states that further study is required to qualify as an Early Years Educator.

Learning Gateway is not the training provider. These courses are available through our training-provider network. Funding and final eligibility are confirmed by the provider.

What you will learn

Units and topics below are taken from the current Learning Curve Group course page.

  • Young children's development
  • Safeguarding the welfare of children and young people
  • Respecting and valuing children
  • Use food and nutrition information to plan a healthy diet
  • Importance of play for early learning
  • The value of play to young children
  • Sharing learning experiences with children

Course details

Qualification
Level 2 Certificate in Introducing Caring for Children and Young People
Level
Level 2
Type
Certificate
Study method
Online flexible learning. You work through assessments on the provider's learning platform with support from a subject-specialist tutor.
Duration
7 weeks
Certification
NCFE CACHE, recognised by the Department for Education and regulated by Ofqual
Training provider
Learning Curve Group

Who is it for?

  • Adults considering childcare or early years work for the first time
  • People who want a foundation before an Early Years Educator qualification

This is an entry-level qualification. Further study is required to qualify as an Early Years Educator.

Funding and eligibility

Learning Curve Group has given UK Learning Gateway this baseline for Level 2 Flexible Learning learners. It is a starting point only — the provider's Pre-Check makes the final decision.

  • You are aged 19 or over
  • You are resident in the UK and can provide evidence of this
  • You are not resident on a Skilled Worker or other sponsored visa — Learning Curve Group does not accept learners on those visas under this route
  • You are not currently on an apprenticeship

Final funding eligibility is determined through Learning Curve Group's Pre-Check and can vary by your circumstances, where you live, the funding route and provider availability. UK Learning Gateway does not override the provider's decision.

Availability and funding can depend on where you live. The provider's Pre-Check will confirm the options available for your postcode.

What happens next?

  1. Step 1

    Choose the course

    Use this page to decide whether the qualification is the right starting point for you.

  2. Step 2

    Continue to the provider Pre-Check

    You leave this site and continue to Learning Curve Group's secure funding Pre-Check.

  3. Step 3

    Funding eligibility is checked

    Learning Curve Group reviews your details against current funding rules and availability.

  4. Step 4

    You are directed to the right delivery provider

    If you are eligible, you are passed to the appropriate delivery or enrolment provider for that course.

  5. Step 5

    Enrolment and evidence checks

    The delivery provider completes final enrolment, identity and evidence checks before you start.

Progression and related study

  • LCG says this can provide a foundation towards an Early Years Educator qualification.
  • It does not by itself qualify you as an early years educator.

No course can guarantee a job. Role examples come from the provider's current course page and are context only.

Related courses

More guidance

If you are still comparing options across providers, you can also check general eligibility. That is a separate UK Learning Gateway form and is not required before this course's provider Pre-Check.