Early Childhood Studies (FdA)

About the course

FdA Early Childhood Studies prepares you to make a real difference in the lives of young children, families and communities. The programme provides a critical and interdisciplinary understanding of childhood from birth to eight years, drawing on education, psychology, sociology, health and social policy. You will explore contemporary issues including equity, inclusion and social justice, equipping you to respond thoughtfully and ethically in diverse early years settings.

Through practical placements in nurseries, schools, children’s centres and community organisations, you will develop professional insight and experience alongside academic knowledge. Childhood and Youth Studies at Roehampton is ranked top 6 in London in the Complete University Guide 2025, the University holds Silver in the 2023 Teaching Excellence Framework, and is ranked the number 1 modern university in the UK for Research in the Research Excellence Framework.

What you’ll study

You’ll build a solid foundation in early childhood studies, while gaining professional skills valued across education, family support and health and social care sectors, including child development and wellbeing, safeguarding, inclusive practice, reflective practice, leadership, teamwork and multi agency collaboration.

Modules offered can vary each year but may include:

• Contemporary Issues in Education and Academic Skills for Success

• Froebel in a Contemporary and Global ECS World

• Studying Young Children

• Placement 1: Developing and Understanding Professional Practice and Values

How you’ll learn

You will learn through:

• Lectures, seminars and tutorials grounded in research informed and Froebelian principles

• Practice based simulations and collaborative learning activities

• Placements in nurseries, schools and community settings linking theory with practice

• Digital resources and recorded content supporting flexible learning

• Professionally relevant assessments with formative feedback to build confidence and capability

You will also benefit from ongoing formative feedback and structured support to develop academic literacy, critical thinking and professional identity.

Future opportunities

This Foundation Degree supports progression into a wide range of roles within the early childhood sector and related fields.

• Early years education and care

• Family and community support

• Health and social care

• Leadership and multi agency roles

The course also provides a strong foundation for progression to a top up degree or further professional development within early childhood and education.

Facilities

You will study within a supportive School of Education with strong partnerships across early childhood settings and community organisations.

• Placement opportunities in nurseries, schools and children’s centres

• Collaborative teaching spaces supporting interactive learning

• Access to digital learning resources

• Engagement with guest lecturers and sector specialists

These facilities support your academic development and help you apply early childhood studies knowledge with confidence.