Course summary

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. You will engage with young children and families through course activities and placements having the option of gaining professional recognition of your practice. If your qualifications don’t allow direct entry to degree level or you have been out of formal education for some time, this course is for you. We offer high-quality teaching in a stimulating learning environment where you'll feel supported and ready for degree study. In your first year, you'll develop your knowledge of the ways children and adults come to know what they know. You’ll acquire a toolkit of skills and the confidence to apply them effectively. Upon successful completion, advance to the BA (Hons) Early Childhood Studies programme, where you'll delve deeper into understanding children's lives and gain hands-on experience. This four-year course is designed to give you the grounding necessary to progress through your undergraduate programme in BA (Hons) Early Childhood Studies giving you a broader view of children’s development by studying the subject in practical, historical and international contexts. Your first year will:

• enable you to enter University from non-traditional entry routes, whether you are returning to education after a break or if you come with qualifications other than A levels

• introduce you to supportive and accessible academic staff in a welcoming community with personal tutor support

• prepare you for level 4 study in a research-rich environment, establishing relationships with the University, support services, teaching staff and other education students

• provide research-informed teaching opportunities which build on your prior learning, encouraging you to draw on your work/professional/personal experiences

• provide you learning experiences which offer small group work, problem-solving and interactive approaches through a wide range of diverse and innovative teaching methods

• support you in developing essential study skills through a variety of coursework-based inclusive assessments – from essays and presentations to creative projects, personal development plans and written projects.

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

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

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

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