Course summary

The BA (Hons) programmes with Foundation Year are open to a wide range of students who do not yet have the qualifications to apply for an undergraduate degree programme. Successful completion of the Foundation Year will allow progression onto our Early Years Education and Care (with Graduate Practitioner Competencies) course: Gain a thorough understanding of the learning, development and life experiences of children in their early years. This degree will provide a firm foundation for a career making a difference to the lives of young children. As a successful graduate of this course you will meet the Graduate Practitioner Competencies specified by the Early Childhood Studies Degree Network. We have designed this course to equip you with the Graduate Practitioner Competencies you need for employment within the early years sector. The theoretical and practical modules you study will equip you with the knowledge, skills and experience required to meet these competencies. You will benefit from studying alongside students on related courses. Together you will learn about: How children and young people develop Child protection and safeguarding requirements How specific groups of learners may be labelled and stereotyped, leading to marginalisation and exclusion Mental health in children and young people The impact of issues such as disability, socio-economic status, trauma and abuse on development and education. The specialist knowledge you will gain by choosing this course includes: Identifying and reflecting on the knowledge, skills and values needed to work in the early years sector Historical and global approaches to early years education and care, evaluating their influence on today’s professional practices Challenges in leadership and management in the early years sector, considering different styles and approaches to leading and managing. Professional practice is central to this course. You will carry out at least 25 days of assessed placement work in every year of study. This qualifies you as having received “full and relevant” training that meets the standards of the Early Childhood Studies Degree Network.