About this qualification
This qualification is designed to provide learners with the knowledge and understanding of the principles and theories that underpin playwork and the importance of play in children’s lives aged 4 to 16 years. It covers the knowledge and skills needed when working under supervision and requires the learner to demonstrate the full application of knowledge and understanding over a period in the workplace.
This qualification can also be undertaken as part of the Welsh playwork apprenticeship framework. Apprenticeship information and the latest documents are available from Apprenticeship Certificate Wales. These should always be consulted to ensure that all mandatory qualifications, units, assessment, on-the-job hours and apprenticeship conditions are achieved and evidenced.
Who is it suitable for?
This qualification is designed for learners who work or wish to work with children between the ages of 4 and 16 in playwork settings.
What are the entry requirements?
Learners should be at least 16 years old. We do not set any other entry requirements but colleges or training providers may have their own guidelines.
How is this qualification structured?
Learners are required to successfully achieve 56 credits, 40 credits from the 12 mandatory units, plus a minimum of 16 credits from the optional units.
In addition, full coverage of the Level 2 Playworker apprenticeship standard (England) is achieved when selecting the following optional units in addition to the mandatory units:
•L2PWOP2 Contribute to providing food and drink in the playwork setting (J/650/0587)
•L2PWOP3 Engage with parents, carers and families in the playwork setting (K/650/0588)
•L2PWOP6 Support children’s travel outside the playwork setting (Y/650/0591)
How is it assessed?
This qualification is internally assessed and externally quality assured
How many credits are required to complete it?
56 credits
How long will it take to complete this qualification?
Learners can usually complete this qualification in a year or less.
Do you need to be working to take this qualification?
Learners will need to be working, volunteering or on practical placement, as they need to show competence in both knowledge and skills.
What related qualifications can you progress to?
• NCFE CACHE Level 3 Certificate in Understanding Playwork (610/0644/0)
• NCFE CACHE Level 3 Diploma in Playwork (610/0645/2)
Which type of job roles can you apply for on completion?
Learners who achieve this qualification could progress as a level 2 playworker working under supervision, to the following:
• before and after school clubs
• holiday playschemes
• adventure playgrounds
• open access play settings
• play rangers
Funding for our qualifications
Find out more about funding for this and other qualifications on our funding page.