Early Years Professional Leadership

The Pearson BTEC Higher National Diploma (HND) in Early Years Professional Leadership for England is designed to develop confident, reflective professionals who are ready to lead in the early years education and care sector. This qualification supports students in becoming adaptable, skilled practitioners who meet the evolving needs of children, families, and employers.

As an approved Higher Technical Qualification (HTQ), this course offers a clear progression route for:

• Level 3 qualified practitioners seeking to upskill

• Those already working in early years settings and aiming for leadership roles

• Career changers entering the sector for the first time

You will gain expertise in areas such as child development, safeguarding, inclusive practice, leadership, and quality improvement. The course combines academic study with practical experience, preparing you for supervisory and management roles or further study at degree level.
The HND also offers excellent progression opportunities, including:

• Entry into the final year of a related BA (Hons) degree

• Advancement into roles such as nursery room leader, early years coordinator, or childcare manager

This HND has been developed by Pearson in close collaboration with a wide range of stakeholders—including employers, higher education institutions, professional bodies, and subject specialists—the qualification ensures strong alignment with current industry needs and recognised professional standards. It meets the expectations of the Institute for Apprenticeships and Technical Education (IfATE) and the associated occupational standards, allowing it to be designated as a Higher Technical Qualification (HTQ)

First Year:

• Personal and Professional Development through Reflective Practice
• Protecting Children in Early Years Education and Care Environments
• Play and Learning in Early Childhood
• Supporting and Promoting Children's Development (Infants and Toddlers)
• Supporting and Promoting Children's Development (Young Children)
• Promoting Healthy Living
• Preparing for Research
• Promoting Inclusive Early Education and Care Environments

Second Year:

• Investigating Childhood: Action Research for Early Childhood Practitioners
• Improving Quality in Early Education and Care Environments
• Managing and Leading People in Children's Early Education and Care Environments
• Managing Children's Early Education and Care Environments
• Mentoring and Supervision in Early Education and Care Practice
• The Impact of Contemporary Global Issues on Children's Health and Wellbeing
• Trauma in Childhood: Addressing the Impact of Adverse Experiences on Child Health and Wellbeing (Optional)
• Supporting Children's Medical Needs (Optional)
• Outdoor Play and Learning (Optional)

Assessment will be carried out through a combination of:
· Coursework
· Practical assignments
· Presentation
· Individual or group projects.

Students will demonstrate their understanding through essays, reports, reflective accounts and activity planning.
Whilst completing your course you will also complete formative assessment task in the form of class activities, short written tasks, group research, academic reading and evaluation. These will be to support your skills development and evaluate understanding and development.