Early Childhood Education and Care (ECEC) Top-up

The course has been developed in partnership with employers to ensure the current government reforms in education are met. The reforms focus on early childhood development and the importance of high quality early years provision to provide the foundations to prepare young children and babies for the best start in life.

The program will also ensure you are fully prepared for a successful career and allows students who currently hold a foundation degree or a Higher National Diploma (HND) to complete further study to top up their qualifications and obtain a full honours degree. You will build on what you have already learnt from previous study and will gain knowledge to support you in your career.

The course has been updated in line with the National Occupational Standards for the Level 6 Early Years Educator.

The theoretical modules and research project aim to integrate study with your own personal, professional and work experience, and to allow you to reflect on your practice-based application of theory.

Sessions involve a range of learning opportunities including group work, lectures, seminars, workshops, and case studies as well as approximately 60% independent, self-directed, study. To help you with your independent study you will have a personal tutor who will support your ongoing well-being and ensure that you have a positive learning experience.

Course Modules

You will study a range of theoretical modules, covering elements which will enhance your understanding of working with children in early years and primary education. You will have the opportunity to undertake a major study in education which will develop independent research skills and personal and professional competence in planning for and carrying out a project.

Modules studied include:

Health and well-being
Critical Issues in SEND
Research methodologies
Major study in education

Assessments vary and include essays, written reports, developing creative teaching resources to support children's learning, student-led seminars, presentations, and research reports.