Children’s care, learning and development - level 2 apprenticeship framework
This framework sets out the standards and criteria you must meet to complete the apprenticeship programme and receive your apprenticeship certificate for level two children’s care, learning and development. This is the only level 2 training in this skill acceptable for apprenticeshipsni funding.
About the framework
This framework specifies the standards and the criteria for the delivery of level 2 apprenticeship training to achieve qualified status within the children’s care, learning and development industry. Successful completion of the apprenticeship will lead to the award of a level 2 qualification and recognition as a qualified person within the sector.
Mandatory outcomes
Achievement of a level 2 apprenticeship in children’s care, learning and development will be assessed by verification through the appropriate awarding body.
You must complete a competence-based qualification, along with the mandatory essential skills qualifications.
Mandatory essential skills
To successfully complete the apprenticeship, you must achieve the following essential skills qualifications as part of the apprenticeship, or already hold a recognised equivalent:
- application of number – level 1
- communication – level 1
- information and communication technology – level 1
However, any qualifications you already have are assessed against the framework requirements and may result in an exemption from the above.
Combined competence and knowledge qualifications
Pathway 1 - childcare
You need to complete a combined competence-based and knowledge-based qualification from the list below.
- City & Guilds Level 2 Diploma in Children's Care Learning and Development (Northern Ireland) 603/5089/1
- NCFE CACHE Level 2 Diploma for Children’s Care Learning and Development (Northern Ireland) 603/4723/5
Pathway 2 - playwork
You need to complete a combined competence-based and knowledge-based qualification from the list below.
- City & Guilds Level 2 Diploma in Playwork (NVQ) 500/8681/9
- Focus Awards Level 2 Diploma in Playwork (RQF) 601/8022/5
For playwork you are also required to achieve a current HSE-approved emergency first aid, first aid at work, or paediatric first aid certificate – evidence of which is required for certification.
Related knowledge will be covered by completion of the Level 2 Diploma in Children’s Care, Learning and Development.
Eligibility and entry to the programme
You must be a new employee, or an existing employee taking on a new role to take part in the programme. There are no formal entry requirements for learners undertaking this apprenticeship, however employers may apply their own criteria at recruitment. Employers and training contractors must ensure that learners have the potential and opportunity to gain the apprenticeship successfully.
See also the DfE operational requirements.
Duration
Apprenticeship duration can vary and will be agreed between the apprentice, training contractor and employer.
Related knowledge
Employment Rights and Responsibilities (ERR) should be evidenced by completion of the Level 2 Award in Employment Rights and Responsibilities in Health, Social Care or Children and Young People’s Settings (single unit award).
Responsibilities
It is the responsibility of the training contractor/college to ensure that all components of this framework are delivered in accordance with apprenticeshipsni operational requirements.
The apprentice must be employed from day one.
Further information
The content of this framework (Framework No 10 Issue 8: 10/24) has been agreed by the Department for the Economy. For further information, contact: