Education (Early Years) (Top up)

The BA (Hons) Education (Early Years) (Top-Up) is designed for those who have completed a relevant Level 5 qualification and want to progress to an Honours degree focused on early years education. This programme builds on your existing knowledge and experience, deepening your understanding of how children develop and learn, and preparing you for more advanced roles within the early years sector.

You will study advanced themes such as child development, safeguarding, inclusive practice, curriculum design, and educational policy, with a clear focus on children aged 0–8. The course also encourages reflective practice, helping you to analyse your professional approach and adapt to meet the diverse needs of children and families.

Students are expected to be working or volunteering in a relevant early years setting, ensuring you can connect academic study to real-world practice. This balance of theory and applied learning prepares you for meaningful career progression or further study.

Course Modules

Independent Study
Comparative and international perspectives in childhood and youth
Effective leadership and management in education
Social justice in education
Pedagogical approaches in early years

Essays and written assignments – exploring theories and policies in early years.
Case studies – applying learning to real-life settings.
Presentations and group projects – developing collaboration and communication.
Research-based tasks – strengthening evidence-based practice.
Independent dissertation or major project – investigating a topic of personal and professional interest.