Early Childhood Studies with Foundation Year

Why this course?

• We are ranked 1st in London for student satisfaction in Childhood and Youth Studies (National Student Survey 2024)

• Over 90% student satisfaction in London for Childhood and youth Studies

• Top modern university in London in Education (Complete University Guide 2025)

About this course:

A top-up programme exploring the holistic development of young children, the shaping of their future well-being, and their learning outcomes. Get the specialist skills you need to tackle issues facing young children with teaching informed by the works of Friedrich Froebel.

Skills:
On our Early Childhood Studies top - up, our priority is ensuring that you graduate with a professional skillset. This incorporates;

• Developing knowledge, skills, and confidence to act as an advocate for babies, young children, their families and communities

• Understanding policy and practice and learning to engage in critical inquiry and problem solving around key issues in the field

Career opportunities:
Many graduates take on roles in the education sector including:

• Education professional in primary and nursery care (teaching, administration or management)*

• A special needs professional in schools, children centres and the community

• A children’s charity undertaking policy and research, in community support, welfare or housing

• An NGO or central or local government department

*This is an academic degree – further study may be needed to gain professional qualifications.

During the foundation year, you will take modules in English and Maths which will develop your core academic and study skills. The syllabus includes a year-long module relevant to your chosen degree subject such as Education Essentials: Learning and Development. This will provide you with a subject specific knowledge in Education which is essential for success in your degree.

During your first year of study, you consider the impact of cultural influences on the lives of babies, toddlers and young children and their development. You will research topical issues and concerns in early childhood and consider the concepts of equity and inclusion. You will explore the importance of observation in the study of young children and learn fundamental skills needed to carry out early years research.

In the second year, you will analyse the significance of play, imagination and creativity in children's development, and examine the impact of the early childhood pioneers on current perspectives and practice. You will have an opportunity to undertake a work placement in an early years setting plus you will consider a variety of curriculum models, children's wellbeing and their understanding of themselves and others. Whilst deepening your understanding of research methods in early childhood settings, you will start a research proposal for your third year project.

In your final year, you will carry out a substantial research project in an area of your choice and develop expertise in this subject. You will also spend time learning about how to interact with young children so that you can engage with their perspectives and consider the influences that society has on them. A strong and effective relationship with the parents of the children you care for is paramount to the welfare of the child. You will learn how to maintain a balance of power between the parents and yourself as a professional, as well as how to address issues such as cultural diversity and support systems.

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