Understanding Common Childhood Illnesses - Level 2

Summary

Are you passionate about supporting the health and wellbeing of children? The NCFE CACHE Level 2 Certificate in Understanding Common Childhood Illnesses is designed to equip you with essential knowledge to effectively care for and support infants and children. This course is perfect for anyone looking to deepen their understanding of childhood illnesses and make a positive impact on young lives.

Next course dates

Start date Location Duration
03 Mar 2026
Bispham Campus
4 Weeks
03 Mar 2027
Bispham Campus
4 Weeks

Pathways in Health, Education and Childcare

Advance your career in education or healthcare with professional development courses in pastoral and social care, ideal for gaining promotion or landing your first role.

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Where can this subject lead?

Career progression

The NCFE CACHE Level 2 Certificate in Understanding Common Childhood Illnesses is a crucial step for those aiming to work in early years education and childcare. 

This qualification opens doors to roles such as early years practitioners, nursery assistants, and childcare workers, as well as healthcare positions like paediatric support workers. 

It is part of the Early Years Pathway, which includes a series of qualifications designed to prepare individuals for a career in early years education and childcare, including safeguarding, mental health, and caring for children. 

EARLY YEARS PATHWAY

NCFE L1 AWARD CARING FOR CHILDREN.

NCFE L1 DIP CARING FOR CHILDREN RPL.

NCFE L2 CERT UNDERSTANDING CHILDHOOD ILLNESSES.

NCFE L2 CERT UNDERSTANDING SAFEGUARDING AND PREVENT.

NCFE L2 CERT UNDERSTANDING MENTAL HEALTH IN THE EARLY YEARS.

Completing this course can lead to advanced qualifications and specialised roles, enhancing employability and providing opportunities for career progression in the sector. 

Next steps at B&FC

Upon successful completion of the NCFE CACHE Level 2 Certificate in Understanding Common Childhood Illnesses, students can progress to several courses within the Early Years Pathway at Blackpool and The Fylde College (B&FC). These include:

EARLY YEARS PATHWAY

NCFE L1 AWARD CARING FOR CHILDREN.

NCFE L1 DIP CARING FOR CHILDREN RPL.

NCFE L2 CERT UNDERSTANDING CHILDHOOD ILLNESSES.

NCFE L2 CERT UNDERSTANDING SAFEGUARDING AND PREVENT.

NCFE L2 CERT UNDERSTANDING MENTAL HEALTH IN THE EARLY YEARS.

WORKING IN EALRY YEARS

NCFE Level 2 Certificate in Understanding Adverse Childhood Experiences.

NCFE Level 2 Diploma for the Early Years Practitioner.

NCFE Level 3 Diploma in Working in the Early Years Sector (Early Years Educator).

These courses are designed to further enhance your knowledge and skills, preparing you for a rewarding career in early years education and childcare.

Employment Opportunities

Upon completing the NCFE CACHE Level 2 Certificate in Understanding Common Childhood Illnesses, students can explore various employment opportunities in the early years and healthcare sectors. 

  • Early Years Practitioner
  • Nursery Assistant
  • Childcare Worker
  • Teaching Assistant
  • Pediatric Healthcare Assistant
  • Support Worker in Pediatric Clinics
  • Childminder
  • Family Support Worker
  • Playgroup Assistant
  • Community Health Worker

Key information

Entry Requirements

Technical Entry Requirements:

  • Age: 19 years or over (19+)

Additional Non-Qualification-Based Entry Requirements:

  • DBS Check: While a DBS check is not required for enrolment on the course, it is essential for those seeking employment in early years settings. Anyone working with children or young people will require an Enhanced DBS Check which can only be applied for by their employer. You may, however, be asked to cover the cost of the Check. More information, including current Check fees, can be found by visiting the gov.uk website and searching for 'DBS'.

These entry requirements ensure that students are adequately prepared for the course and any subsequent employment opportunities in early years education and childcare. Additionally, students should have a basic level of proficiency in English and Maths.

Qualification obtained

Certificate in Understanding Common Childhood Illnesses

Extra costs and equipment

There are no additional costs associated with this course.

What will I learn?

What will I learn?

The NCFE CACHE Level 2 Certificate in Understanding Common Childhood Illnesses is structured into three comprehensive units, each designed to provide essential knowledge and skills for supporting the health and wellbeing of young children.

Unit 01: Understand How to Provide a Safe and Healthy Environment for Babies and Young Children

This unit focuses on creating and maintaining a safe and hygienic environment for infants and young children. 

Unit 02: Understand Common Childhood Illnesses

This unit aims to help learners recognise and manage common childhood illnesses. 

Unit 03: Understand Health Emergencies and Specific Health Conditions in an Early Years Setting.

This unit covers the management of health emergencies and chronic conditions. 

Industry placement, field trips and guest speakers

Guest Speakers: The programme is enriched by guest speakers from the industry, providing valuable insights and real-world perspectives. These industry experts share their experiences and knowledge, enhancing the learning experience and offering students a unique opportunity to engage with professionals in the field.

How will I learn?

This course is delivered one day per week over four weeks with timetabling arranged to align with school hours. Contact teaching time is for a total of 20 hours with anticipated independent study of around 10 hours per week..

Our courses are taught in hybrid teaching rooms, allowing learners to attend live sessions either in person or online. The programme primarily focuses on theoretical knowledge but also includes practical hands-on elements to enhance learning and application. This flexible approach ensures that students can engage with the material in a way that best suits their needs and schedules.

Interactive Lectures: Engaging lectures that encourage student participation and discussion.

Group Work: Collaborative projects and activities that foster teamwork and communication skills.

Practical Workshops: Hands-on sessions where students can apply theoretical knowledge in practical scenarios.

Online Resources: Access to a wealth of online materials, including videos, articles, and interactive modules.

These varied teaching methods ensure a comprehensive and dynamic learning experience, preparing students for future employment in early years education and childcare.

How will I be assessed?

How will I be assessed?

Students will be assessed through a combination of methods designed to evaluate their understanding and practical application of the course material. The assessment process is structured to ensure that students can demonstrate their knowledge and skills effectively.

Assessment Methods:

  • Portfolio of Evidence: Throughout the course, students will compile a portfolio of evidence that showcases their learning and achievements. This portfolio will include various forms of assessment such as written assignments, case studies, and practical tasks.
  • Written Assignments: These assignments will test students' understanding of theoretical concepts and their ability to apply this knowledge to real-world scenarios.
  • Case Studies: Students will analyse specific situations related to childhood illnesses, demonstrating their problem-solving skills and ability to provide appropriate care and support.

Grading:

  • The course is assessed on a pass or fail basis. Students must meet all the assessment criteria for each unit to achieve a pass.
  • The portfolio of evidence is a crucial component of the assessment process, as it provides comprehensive proof of the student's competence and understanding.