Open University has participated in the Teaching Excellence Framework. These ratings were awarded in 2023, for four years.
Course summary
This certificate is relevant for anyone interested in young children’s learning and development, including practitioners working in early-years settings or those wanting a career working with children from birth to seven years. In this certificate, you'll develop your understanding of policy and practice in early childhood. It will prepare you to engage with further study as a foundation for careers working with young children and their families across all sectors. Key features of the course
- Develops your understanding of young children’s learning and development
- Focuses on young children’s play and creativity within the context of the family and early childhood settings
- Includes national and international perspectives on early childhood
- Builds a solid foundation for further study
Modules
This qualification has one stage comprising 120 credits. You’ll study two modules that explore how children learn, and the importance of children’s play.
How to apply
To apply for this course you will be taken to the provider's website, where you can find out more information and make an application.
Points of entry
The following entry points are available for this course:
- Year 1
Entry requirements
Qualification requirements
There are no qualification requirements for this course.
You do not need to be working with young children in order to study this qualification; however, in both core practice-focused modules we strongly recommend you gain direct experience with young children (birth to 7 years, 11 months). Students not working with young children (employed or in a voluntary capacity) will need to negotiate opportunities to gain such practical experience. It is your responsibility and that of your employer – not the OU’s - to ensure the necessary Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check (or equivalent if not working in England) required for the setting and country in which you’re working is obtained and that you meet the ‘fit person’ criteria for work with young children. If you are in any doubt about your eligibility, or to find out more, contact the relevant agency in your country.
Please click the following link to find out more about qualification requirements for this course
Student Outcomes
Operated by the Office for Students
There is no data available for this course. For further information visit the Discover Uni website.
Fees and funding
Tuition fees
| England | £7272 | Whole course |
| Northern Ireland | £2318 | Whole course |
| Scotland | £2376 | Whole course |
| Wales | £2624 | Whole course |
| Republic of Ireland | £6984 | Whole course |
| EU | £7472 | Whole course |
| International | £7472 | Whole course |
| Channel Islands | £7472 | Whole course |
Tuition fee status depends on a number of criteria and varies according to where in the UK you will study. For further guidance on the criteria for home or overseas tuition fees, please refer to the UKCISA website .
Additional fee information
Fee information is valid for modules starting before 31 July 2025. Fees typically increase annually.
Provider information
Open University
Student Recruitment Team
PO Box 197
Milton Keynes
MK7 6BJ