Education and Early Childhood Studies (Top Up)

The BA (Hons) Education and Early Childhood studies Top Up is a programme with three distinct pathways that students who have completed a relevant FdA can progress onto in order to gain a full degree. Must be employed or be prepared to secure a voluntary work placement within the sector.

The Early Years Educator pathway This pathway is for students who have already gained a ‘licence to practice’ at level 3. The Early Childhood Graduate Practitioner Competencies pathway is aimed at students wishing to study early years education entering the programme without a level 3 qualification to ensure they are full and relevant upon completion, and the Learning Support pathway is aimed at Teaching Assistants, to enable them to apply for the higher-level paid jobs whilst developing their confidence to eventually apply for Teacher Training on completion of a Top Up programme. Incorporating distinct pathways such as; Early Years Educator, Graduate Practitioner Competencies, and Learning Support into the FdA in Education and Early Childhood Studies is essential for several reasons:

Early Years Educator Pathway including the graduate competencies pathway: This pathway addresses the critical need for qualified professionals who can provide high-quality care and education to young children. It ensures that students gain specialised knowledge and skills to support early childhood development effectively. By focusing on the unique needs of young learners, this pathway prepares graduates to create nurturing and stimulating environments that promote holistic growth. This pathway enhances the professionalism and employability of graduates by embedding key competencies into the curriculum. By mastering these areas, graduates are better equipped to meet the demands of the early childhood sector and contribute to best practices in their field.

Learning Support Pathway: This pathway is crucial for preparing students to support diverse learners, including those with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND). It provides the necessary skills to create inclusive learning environments and implement effective support strategies. By focusing on learning support, this pathway ensures that graduates can work alongside teachers to enhance educational outcomes for all students, particularly those who require additional assistance.

Overall, these pathways ensure that this Top Up degree is comprehensive and responsive to the varied needs of the education sector. They prepare students for a range of roles, enhancing their career prospects and enabling them to make a significant impact on children’s lives. This programme addresses the growing demand for qualified early years practitioners and to plug the shortage of qualified educators including teachers which subsequently supports the local economy by providing accessible higher education opportunities. Early childhood education is crucial for the development of children and has long-term benefits for society.

Course Modules

This course includes the following core modules that all students complete, along with some pathway specific modules:

Core modules:

Current Issues and Contemporary Debates

Childhood and Youth in a Global Context

Dissertation

Learning Support pathway specific modules:

Digital Detox and Mental Health

Strategic Pedagogy and Educational Leadership

Early Childhood pathway specific modules:

Nurturing Wellbeing through Play

Collaborative Leadership in Early Childhood Pedagogy

Occasional changes to modules and course content may take place. Students will be notified when applicable.

Course and Career Progression

Completing a BA (Hons) in Education and Early Childhood Studies Top Up opens up a wealth of career opportunities in the education and childcare sectors. The qualification will equip students with a solid understanding of child development, educational theories, and practical skills essential for working with children 0-18 years. The high-quality learning experiences within the BA supports the development of students’ transferable skills and graduate attributes needed for successful career progression.

Students can pursue roles such as; childcare providers and teaching assistants. Additionally, the degree provides a pathway to specialised positions such as; Special Educational Needs (SEN) teaching assistants, learning mentors, and family support workers.

It is acknowledged that careers are varied within the early years and education sector and students may take several routes depending on their specific aspirations. Some graduates would like to work with children and their families, while others may progress into posts within local authorities which could involve the development of local strategy and policy. This BA (Hons) Degree also serves as a stepping stone for further studies, enabling students to advance their careers and take on more senior roles within the field.

The School of Health, Education, Well-being and Sport has developed two relevant Masters programme of study, Education and Early Childhood Studies and also Special Educational Needs, Disabilities and Inclusion which students could potentially progress on to, other students may wish to pursue Teacher Training. Teacher training programmes provide hands-on teaching practice, mentorship, and the necessary qualifications to become a qualified teacher. This can be particularly attractive for those passionate about making an immediate impact in the classroom and contributing to the education system.

Suggested progression programmes following completion of this Top Up programme include:

● Qualified Teacher Status (QTS)

● Early Years Teacher Status (EYTS)

● Early Years Initial Teacher Training (EYITT)

● Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE)

While we do not offer all teacher training programmes at DNCG, we arrange for representatives from various institutions to come in and speak to students about different progression routes. Where we do offer teacher training programmes, the Programme Lead takes the time to speak directly with students about the details of the training. This ensures students have access to valuable information and guidance on the next steps in their teaching career.