Pembrokeshire College, Merlins Bridge, Haverfordwest, Pembrokeshire, SA61 1SZ

Playwork

NCFE CACHE Level 2, 3 & 5 Playwork

Mode: Evening, Part-time, Work-based

Level: Level 2 - Intermediate, Level 3 - Advanced, Level 5 - Higher

Course ID: 15468

This qualification is designed for learners who work or wish to work with children between the ages of 4 and 16 in playwork settings.

child's hand drawing with chalk on a pavement

Is this course right for me?

Playwork is suitable for those working with 4-16 year olds such as an after-school club, adventure playground or play scheme.

  • No formal entry requirements
  • You will be expected to be in relevant job role
  • Each application is considered on individual merit
  • Entry is subject to attending a course meeting or informal interview
  • Learners must be at least 16 years old
If you have gained your qualifications outside of the UK we will use ECCTIS to check their equivalence to UK qualifications. Please upload proof of your qualifications as part of the application process.
  • Successful completion of relevant programme (including skills) and decision from progression board meeting

Level 2 Playwork is suitable for individuals already working in the sector and will cover the primary aspects of working with children and young people between the ages of 4 to 16 in play environments. Providing an understanding of the importance of play and playwork in children and young people’s lives as well as essential skills in Health and Safety, Safeguarding, Welfare and reflective practice.

Qualification: NCFE CACHE Level 2 Diploma in Playwork

Level 3 Playwork is aimed at those working as a supervisor in a playwork setting or would like to take on a supervisory role – this could be in a job at an after-school club, adventure playground or play scheme. The qualification will assess competence and knowledge in playwork principles, self-directed play, safeguarding and wellbeing, supporting positive outcomes and health & safety.

Qualification: NCFE CACHE Level 3 Diploma in Playwork

Level 5 Playwork is suitable for senior playworker/supervisor/manager and wish to progress their career or to further develop their understanding and practice in playwork with children in order to enhance the service offered. This qualification confirms occupational competence working at advanced practitioner level and contribute towards high quality childcare in Wales.

Qualification: NCFE CACHE Level 5 Diploma in Advanced Playwork (Practitioner/Manager)

You may need to study an additional skills course depending on:

  • the course you are taking at College
  • what grades you gained in your GCSE Maths and/or English Language

Below to find out what skills course you may be taking at College.

Work-based, progression pathway programmes within the Built Environment Faculty – you will study Essential Skills Wales (ESW) in Application of Number and Communications.

Jobs Growth Wales (JGW+) programme – will be timetabled into literacy and numeracy sessions. To discuss the opportunity of attending a GCSE resit programme, in addition to their JGW+ timetable, please contact skills@pembrokeshire.ac.uk

Life Skills Academy programmes – you will have opportunities to upskill in English and Maths through Wales Essential Skills Toolkit (WEST) / Century or attending Essential Skills classes.

All other courses and those who have progressed through the internal progression route:

Upskilling Destination Programme – an hour and half session a week developing essential research skills, critical thinking, and academic writing techniques, supporting literacy, numeracy, digital literacy and employability skills

A one year GCSE Resit Programme in GCSE Mathematics Intermediate Tier (Welsh or English medium) / GCSE English Language

A one or two year pre-GCSE upskilling course in required subject/s – The priority of this programme (Foundation Maths for Mathematics pathway) is to build fundamental skill and knowledge, to prepare learners for progression onto the one-year, intermediate tier resit programme.

A one year pre-GCSE upskilling course in mathematics – The priority of this programme is to build fundamental skill and knowledge, to prepare learners for progression to the Foundation Maths programme.

Learners may have the option to complete course assessment/assignments or elements of the course through the medium of Welsh or bilingually. Visit our Welsh Language in the College page to find out what else is available to you.

  • Continuous assessment during the course
  • Portfolio of evidence
  • If taken as an apprenticeship then reviews with your assessor and employer will take place every 1-2 months and you will be expected to have developed your skills and knowledge between each review

You can progress onto the next level if available or continue with employment.

Upon completion of a Higher Apprenticeship (equivalent to HNC or HND), you will be invited to attend the College’s Graduation Ceremony at St Davids Cathedral.

  • Stationery - you will be told about any specific items before you start the course

Any costs above are approximate and may change.

  • No additional costs

Any costs above are approximate and may change.

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Last updated: 12/10/2026
Disclaimer:
The College takes all reasonable steps to provide the educational services and courses as described above. Details are correct at the time of editing but may be subject to change without prior notice. Courses will not run if student numbers are insufficient. The College has the right to refuse individuals entry to courses in certain circumstances. Prospective students may be advised of more suitable alternatives, if appropriate. The entry requirements stated are those that are normally required to undertake the programme of study.
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