The Level 2 Award in Safeguarding and Protecting Children and Young People is a nationally recognised qualification in the UK. It is designed for individuals who are new to working with children and young people, or those in support or voluntary roles, who need to understand how to recognise, respond to, and report safeguarding concerns confidently and appropriately.
This Level 2 Award in Safeguarding and Protecting Children and Young People is essential for promoting safety and protecting the welfare of children and young people across a wide range of settings. This award focuses on building practical knowledge of safeguarding responsibilities, types of abuse, and key reporting procedures, helping learners play a vital role in creating safer, more responsive environments for children.
What is the Role of the Level 2 Award in Safeguarding and Protecting Children and Young People?
The Level 2 Award in Safeguarding and Protecting Children and Young People plays a essential role in child-focused settings by building core knowledge of safeguarding legislation, types of abuse, professional responsibilities, and reporting procedures. It enables individuals to recognise early signs of harm and respond appropriately, making it crucial for anyone in contact with children and young people. It prepares learners to act confidently in situations where a child’s welfare may be at risk. The course not only supports personal awareness and professional accountability.
Who can Take the Level 2 Award in Safeguarding and Protecting Children and Young People?
This course is ideal for individuals who:
- Are new to working with children and young people in education, care, or community settings.
- Volunteer in schools, youth groups, nurseries, or sports clubs.
- Work in roles such as classroom assistant, early years practitioner, or residential support worker.
- Are looking to build essential safeguarding knowledge for employment or further study.
- Have no formal qualifications but want to enter the children and young people’s workforce.
It is suitable for anyone who wants to understand their safeguarding responsibilities and contribute to creating safer environments for children and young people.
Which Career Paths can You Follow after the Level 2 Award in Safeguarding and Protecting Children and Young People?
Upon completing the Level 2 Award in Safeguarding and Protecting Children and Young People, you will be equipped to step into support roles within schools, nurseries, youth organisations, and community services. It also builds a strong foundation for progressing into advanced qualifications in childcare, education, or social care.
What Types of Settings can You Work In Level 2 Award in Safeguarding and Protecting Children and Young People?
The Level 2 Award in Safeguarding and Protecting Children and Young People opens doors to a wide range of rewarding environments where the safety and wellbeing of children and young people are the top priority. Whether you are just starting out or volunteering, this qualification equips you to contribute confidently to safeguarding practices across diverse settings.
You can work or volunteer in places such as:
- Primary and secondary schools – supporting pupils as a teaching assistant or classroom helper
- Nurseries and early years settings – helping to create safe, nurturing spaces for young children
- Youth clubs and after-school programmes – engaging with young people in informal learning and social activities
- Residential care homes for children and young people – supporting those with complex needs
- Community centres and outreach projects – working with children in local or faith-based organisations
- Sports clubs and holiday schemes – ensuring safeguarding is part of physical activity and recreation
How Long does it Take to Complete for Level 2 Award in Safeguarding and Protecting Children and Young People?
The Level 2 Award in Safeguarding and Protecting Children and Young People is a short, focused qualification that is typically completed in 1 to 3 days, depending on the training provider and learning format. Many learners complete the course through a single workshop, online learning module with tutor support. Despite its short duration, the course delivers essential safeguarding knowledge with long-lasting impact.
What are the Practical Requirements for Level 2 Award in Safeguarding and Protecting Children and Young People?
As a knowledge-based qualification, Level 2 Award in Safeguarding and Protecting Children and Young People typically does not require workplace assessment or practical demonstration in a real work setting. One of the best things about this qualification is its accessibility you do not need a placement or prior experience to get started. The focus is on real-world understanding, not hands-on practice, making it ideal for beginners, volunteers, or those changing careers. While you will not be assessed in a live care or education setting, you will take part in practical learning activities such as:
- Exploring real-life safeguarding scenarios and case studies
- Practising how to respond appropriately to disclosures
- Learning how to record and report concerns accurately
- Understanding the roles of different safeguarding professionals
These exercises build confidence and prepare you to take informed, responsible action if you ever encounter a safeguarding concern in the real world. It is about knowing what to do and doing the right thing when it counts most.
What is the Progression After the Level 2 Award in Safeguarding and Protecting Children and Young People?
The Level 2 Award in Safeguarding and Protecting Children and Young People is just the beginning, it lays the groundwork for a meaningful career where children’s safety and wellbeing are at the heart of everything you do. Once you have completed this qualification, a world of opportunities opens up for both further study and career development.
You can progress to qualifications such as:
- Level 3 Award in Safeguarding and Protecting Children and Young People – for deeper knowledge and specialist safeguarding roles
- Level 2 or 3 Diploma in Early Years Practitioner – if you are interested in working in nurseries, preschools, or reception classes
- Level 2 or 3 Certificate in Supporting Teaching and Learning – ideal for becoming a teaching assistant or school support worker
- Level 2 or 3 Diploma in Health and Social Care (Children and Young People) – perfect for those interested in care roles within residential or community settings.
Case Study: From Volunteer to Early Years Assistan
Meet Jasmine
Jasmine volunteered part-time at a local after-school club. She completed the Level 2 Award in Safeguarding and Protecting Children and Young People and used it to apply for a role as an Early Years Assistant. During the course, she learned how to spot signs of neglect and how to report concerns using the right procedures.
How Did the Course Help?
Improved her understanding of safeguarding legislation
Gave her the confidence to handle disclosures professionally
Helped her secure a formal role with a childcare provider
Inspired her to begin her Level 3 Diploma in Early Years Education
Conclusion
The Level 2 Award in Safeguarding and Protecting Children and Young People is far more than a basic requirement, it is a crucial stepping stone toward real accountability, lasting impact, and safer futures for children. It empowers you with the insight, judgement, and readiness to recognise risk and respond with confidence, not hesitation. Whether you are entering childcare, working in education, or supporting young people in any capacity, this qualification gives you the voice, responsibility, and tools to stand up for those who may not be able to speak for themselves.