BA (Hons) Early Childhood Studies

This course blends theory with practice, as there's the expectation that you will complete a placement in an early years setting or school for the duration of your studies. It will prepare you for careers in early years education and care or primary education as a teaching assistant or class teacher, family support, health and social services.

You will train in professional practice aspects such as safeguarding, learning support and factoring in diversity. This will give you a sound knowledge of the workplace, including the approaches and regulations that exist internationally.

In your third year the focus will be on cultural and societal issues such as children’s rights and interdisciplinary topics. You’ll propose and complete a research-based major project on a topic of your choice.

If you want to, you can choose to incorporate a weekly placement into your studies and to submit an assignment that reflects on your experiences. There are also optional modules throughout the course, allowing you to personalise your studies.

By the time you graduate you’ll also have developed some valuable transferrable skills, such as research, presentation and problem-solving. Above all, you’ll be a confident, knowledgeable practitioner equipped to work in many areas of the Early Years sector, from teaching to public health.

Our lecturers and tutors are experienced early years professionals with research interests including: creativity and imagination in personal development; child health and well-being; sociology; outdoor play; European and international perspectives.

You'll be taught by a highly experienced, professional team with expertise in the fields of education and the early years sector. Our course draws on external practitioners and experts in the field to provide specialist input. You will have the opportunity to explore theoretical perspectives and work-based practice through lectures, workshops, presentations, work-based projects, electronic discussions and assignments. There is a strong emphasis on the development of ICT, communication and presentation skills.