Early Childhood Studies

Take a fresh look at childhood. Explore the theory and reality of children's early years through a variety of perspectives including sociology, social psychology, history, and philosophy. Develop a well-rounded view of childhood and a clear understanding of potential career paths within this dynamic field. This innovative course encourages critical thinking, fosters innovation, and provides practical insights to navigate the complexities of working with children during their formative years.

Engage with young children and their families in the Work Based Learning module, operating in various settings according to your preferences; for example, children's charities, family centres, child development centres, family work within prisons, and women's rehabilitation centres. Or opt for the Work Based Learning Plus module to attain professional recognition in a nursery, primary school, or special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) school environment.

• Explore the relationships between play and learning in your own studies as well as in child development.

• Expand your options beyond traditional teaching and open up further career opportunities in education, social care, community work, psychology, management and research.

• See for yourself how theories and policies are applied in practice by visiting a wide range of provision for children and families.

• Learn on the job during the work-based learning placement. You will gain the practical skills employers are looking for.

• Opportunities to extend your early years practice through assessment in placement; gaining valuable experience in working with children and families.

• Take a broader view of children’s development by studying the subject in practical, historical and international contexts.

• Develop essential skills through a variety of coursework-based assessments – from essays, surveys and child observations to group presentations and video commentaries.

• Learn from experienced lecturers and tutors who are actively engaged in national and international research projects.

• Make the most of the opportunities presented by being part of a department that has strong links with universities in Europe, Canada, Africa and the USA and through the International Students’ Exchange Programme.

In the first year, you’ll get an overview of the factors that affect children’s lives and begin considering your own professional identity within the sector. You’ll explore how children grow and develop, drawing on the latest research around thinking, playing and learning. You’ll also gain an understanding of different approaches to observing children. Modules on social policy and equality and diversity will introduce you to key contemporary issues.

Your second year focuses on developing your analytical and reflective skills, and expands your hands-on experience during the work based learning module. You will continue to develop your understanding of research while studying children’s development and communication. Throughout this year you will be encouraged to make links with your learning in practice and your academic learning, which will enable you to have a greater understanding of young children and their families lives.

In the final stage of the course you will be helped to make the transition from ‘knowledge consumer’ to ‘knowledge producer’. You will use your developing knowledge and experience to challenge, extend and critique other people’s ideas and your own. You will plan and carry out a research project to develop and disseminate understanding of what you have identified as an area of interest and you will continue to develop your capacity to act as a strong advocate for young children and families.

The modules shown for this course or programme are those being studied by current students, or expected new modules. Modules are subject to change depending on year of entry and up to date information can be found on our website

Assessment is 100% coursework

For up to date details, please refer to our website or contact the institution directly.

To work as a teacher at a state school in England or Wales, you will need to achieve qualified teacher status (QTS). This is offered on this course for the following level:

• Course does not award QTS