Early Childhood Studies (Top-up)

Are you ready to progress in your career? Do you want to become a leader in an early years setting? Our Professional Practice degree in Early Childhood Studies is a work-based learning Level 6 top-up degree. It's designed to be studied on completion of a foundation degree (or equivalent Level 5 qualification), in an area related to early years care and education and/or the support of children and families.

The course runs full time for one academic year starting in September and finishing in mid to late May. Students attend for either two evenings per week normally on a Tuesday and a Thursday 5pm until 8pm or for one full day (this will be discussed at your interview)

You'll have the opportunity to develop your subject expertise by exploring contemporary issues in the care, education, health and welfare of young children and their families. In the context of your own professional practice, you'll evaluate current debates, government strategies and initiatives. Applying theory to practice, you'll undertake a range of work-based activities, including workplace analysis of the practices and models of management, teamwork, children's learning and experience. You'll develop an understanding of the key issues related to ethical practice, as well as learn how to reflect critically on workplace practices in a professional fashion.

You’ll receive extensive support throughout your studies, starting with a specially designed induction programme. We also encourage you to identify a workplace mentor who could support you with your studies and research, (this will be discussed at your interview in more detail)

The module details given below are subject to change, and are the latest example of the curriculum available on this course of study.
On this course, you will study a range of modules, which may include the following:
· Evaluating Current Debates and Developments
· Work Related Project
· The Early Years Professional
· Developing Through Play: Theoretical Perspectives

Teaching and Learning
The teaching team at Barnsley College aim to provide with an excellent student experience and provide you with the tools and support to help you achieve your academic, personal and professional potential focussing on the following
· high quality teaching
· an engaging and inclusive approach to learning, assessment and achievement
· a clear structure through which you progress in your academic studies, your personal development and towards professional-level employment or further study.
· We have a strong reputation for developing student employability, supporting your development towards graduate employment, with relevant skills embedded throughout your programme of study.

We endeavour to develop curiosity, confidence, courage, ambition and aspiration in all students through
· Student Involvement and Engagement
· Inclusion
· Integrated Programme and Assessment Experience
· Digital Literacy and Skills
· Employability and Enterprise

A variety of assessment methods are used, matched to the learning outcomes for your programme, allowing you to apply and demonstrate the full range of knowledge and skills that you have developed.
To help you achieve your potential we emphasise learning as a collaborative process, with a range of student-led and real-world activities. This approach ensures that you fully engage in shaping your own learning, developing your critical thinking and reflective skills so that you can identify your own strengths and weaknesses, and use the extensive learning support system we offer to shape your own development.
We believe the secret to great learning and teaching is simple: it is about creating an inclusive learning experience that allows all students to thrive through:
· Personalised support
· Expert lecturers
· Strong connections with employers
· An international outlook
· Understanding how to use tools and technology to support learning and development