Course summary

The development and growth of children during their early childhood is extraordinary as they grow from babies, completely dependent on care, to children able to act for themselves. Our course explores this very special time in children's lives from before birth to approximately eight years old and examines the factors and experiences that shape their development and growth. You'll discover how children develop, learn and think, explore the complexities of child development and growth, and consider cultural differences. You'll be able to pursue your own specific interests by undertaking research, and diverse practice-based experiences where you'll have opportunities to explore the roles of professionals supporting children in the early years of their lives and their families. You’ll be supported in creating your own e-portfolio, which will demonstrate your skills, knowledge and experiences against the national Early Childhood Studies Subject Benchmarks. You'll build this portfolio over three years, and it will become an invaluable tool when applying for postgraduate opportunities or graduate employment. The combination of strong academic study and diverse practice-based experiences will help to prepare you for many exciting careers where you can make a real difference to children’s lives. Top reasons to study with us You’ll be supported to tailor your studies to your own interests through optional modules, research and work related practice. 100% of our Early Childhood Studies students were in jobs or further study 15 months after finishing their course. Graduate Outcomes Survey 2022 You’ll explore the most significant issues facing children today, such as digital technologies, children’s wellbeing and sustainability. Location This course is run at our Canterbury Campus in Kent. Canterbury is just 50 miles south-east of London and less than an hour by high-speed train from St Pancras. Located on a UNESCO World Heritage Site the campus offers state-of-the-art buildings, right in the centre of a vibrant and world-famous cathedral city. You’ll benefit from a campus with excellent learning and teaching resources, music venues, a superb sports centre, a well-stocked bookshop and plenty of coffee bars and places to eat. A short walk away is Augustine House our award-winning library and home to a vast range of learning resources and student support teams.