Early Childhood Studies

Why study this course?

Our Early Childhood Studies BA degree was one of the first programmes of its kind in the UK, developed to meet the demand for well-qualified early childhood specialists working with young children and their families across all sectors. This undergraduate degree will equip you to implement effective practice with children and families in a range of situations and to act as an advocate for their rights and wellbeing.

More about this course

Our Early Childhood Studies BA degree is uniquely designed for both experienced practitioners and those new to the early childhood studies field. The focus of the course is the study of play, development and learning of children from birth to six-years-old in a socio-cultural context and the implications this has for practice in early childhood settings. The course emphasises the links between theory and practice and highly values the development of professional and academic knowledge. It includes assessed practice, which means tutors will visit/appraise you in professional settings.

You’ll receive exceptional pastoral and academic support from your tutor and academic mentor, whose job will be to ensure you progress through your studies and settle in to university life.

In your first year, the focus will be on developing key skills that are indispensable for academic study at university, including reading, writing and constructing arguments. The study of these academic skills will be linked to other subjects on the course, including theoretical perspectives of holistic development, the use of play in supporting development, the safeguarding of children and inclusion. You’ll also have the opportunity to undertake a work placement module, which will require you to work for two days per week with children aged four to five. You will be supported by a placement supervisor, a visiting tutor and a placement liaison officer.

Your second year will focus on developing research skills and analysing key information in childhood development, such as key legislation, pedagogical and curricular approaches. You’ll also learn how to engage in reflective discussion of how these approaches underpin inclusion and children’s rights.

In your final year you’ll undertake an independent project based on your early years practice experience, which will allow you to explore areas of your own academic interest. You’ll also have the opportunity to critically evaluate current debates in early childhood practice leadership and management, and consider the impact of this on the quality of care and education provision.