Duration

10 – 16 Months

Accreditation

NCFE

Overview

NCFE CACHE Level 2 Diploma in Food Production and Cooking in Early Years provides knowledge, understanding and skills required to work collaboratively in an early years setting and in accordance with food safety regulations, producing hot and cold food which meets individual nutritional requirements.

Age ranges covered by the qualification

0-5 years

Delivery Methods

To cater to different learning styles and preferences, the London College of Professional Studies (LCPS) offers a range of flexible delivery methods, allowing learners to study in a way that suits their needs and schedules.

Learners will be able to:

  • ✅ Access all course materials – including online modules, study guides, and written assignments.
  • ✅ Receive expert tutor support throughout the course.
  • ✅ Use the LCPS Online Learning Portal – available 24/7, providing a user-friendly platform for all study resources.
  • ✅ Obtain detailed assignment briefings to guide assessment preparation.
  • ✅ Access high-quality study notes designed to support learning and understanding.
  • ✅ Receive assignment feedback and marks to monitor progress and improvement.
  • ✅ Earn a fully accredited UK qualification upon successful completion.
  • ✅ Get dedicated customer support via chat, telephone, or email (Monday to Friday).
  • ✅ Enjoy full academic and administrative support from enrolment to course completion.

Duration

The programme is available in 2 modes:

  • 10 Months
  • 16 Months

Accreditation

Level 2 Diploma in Food Production and Cooking in Early Years is accredited by NCFE / Cache Ofqual regulated awarding bodies

NCFE Logo

Course Delivery

  • Online

Entry Requirements

There are no formal entry requirements for NCFE CACHE Level 2 Diploma in Food Production and Cooking in Early Years, but learners should be at least 16 years of age.

Do you need to be working to take the qualification?

Learners will need to be working, volunteering or on a practical placement as they need to show competence in both knowledge and skills.

Who is it suitable for?

The qualification is aimed at adult learners who could be parents returning to work, or some Level 3 qualified professionals.

Module Structure

In order to earn Level 2 Diploma in Food Production and Cooking in Early Years, Learners must achieve a minimum of 57 credits. To do this they must achieve 41 credits from Mandatory Group A and at least a further 16 credits from Optional Group Guidance around these two units.  
Unit title Unit type</tdth Level Credit
Working effectively as part of an early years team Knowledge / Skills 2 3
Support healthy lifestyles for children through the provision of food and nutrition Knowledge / Skills 2 3
Make a positive impression within an early years kitchen environment Knowledge / Skills 2 2
Complete kitchen documentation Knowledge / Skills 2 2
Principles of setting up and closing the kitchen Knowledge / Skills 2 4
Using knives safely Knowledge / Skills 2 2
Prepare, produce and finish basic fish dishes Knowledge / Skills 2 2
Prepare, produce and finish basic meat dishes Knowledge / Skills 2 3
Prepare, produce and finish basic poultry dishes Knowledge / Skills 2 2
Prepare, produce and finish basic vegetable dishes Knowledge / Skills 2 2
Prepare, produce and finish basic egg dishes Knowledge / Skills 2 2
Produce healthier dishes Knowledge / Skills 2 2
Prepare and cook food to meet the requirements of allergy sufferers Knowledge / Skills 2 2
Prepare meals to meet relevant nutritional standards in an early years setting Knowledge / Skills 2 3
Understand how to prepare, cook and handle food safely Knowledge / Skills 2 4
Maintain workplace safety and hygiene practices Knowledge / Skills 2 3
Prepare, produce and finish basic hot sauces Knowledge / Skills 2 2
Maintain an efficient use of resources in the kitchen Knowledge / Skills 2 2
Prepare, operate and clean specialist food preparation and cooking equipment Knowledge / Skills 2 4
Prepare meals for distribution in an early years setting Knowledge / Skills 2 2
Modify the content of dishes Knowledge / Skills 2 4
Cook-chill food Knowledge / Skills 2 3
Cook-freeze food Knowledge / Skills 2 3

Progression

Learners taking this qualification can progress to becoming a cook in an early years setting. They may also wish to progress to other Level 3 Cooking and Hospitality qualifications.

Assessment

All units will be internally assessed using an externally set and internally marked Assessment of Units and will be assessed using a range of methods which could include: portfolio of evidence, coursework, practical demonstration, or an assignment.