Program Overview

Take a fresh look at childhood. Explore the theory of children's early years from perspectives including sociology, social psychology, history, and philosophy. Develop a clear understanding of childhood and the career paths in this field. This course encourages critical thinking, fosters creativity, and provides practical insights into working with children in their formative years. Choose between a placement across diverse environments or professional recognition in an early childhood setting.

In the first year, you’ll get an overview of the factors that affect children’s lives and begin considering your own professional identity within the sector. You’ll explore how children grow and develop, drawing on the latest research around thinking, playing and learning. You’ll also gain an understanding of different approaches to observing children. Modules on social policy and equality and diversity will introduce you to key contemporary issues.

Key features

• Explore the relationships between play and learning in your own studies as well as in child development.
• Expand your options beyond traditional teaching and open up further career opportunities in education, social care, community work, psychology, management and research.
• See for yourself how theories and policies are applied in practice by visiting a wide range of provision for children and families.
• Engage with young children and their families in the Work Based Learning module, operating in various settings according to your preferences; for example, children's charities, family centres, child development centres, family work within prisons, and women's rehabilitation centres. Or opt for the Work Based Learning Plus module to attain professional recognition in a nursery, primary school, or special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) school environment.
• Learn on the job during the work-based learning placement.
• You will gain the practical skills employers are looking for.
• Opportunities to extend your early years practice through assessment in placement; gaining valuable experience in working with children and families.
• Take a broader view of children’s development by studying the subject in practical, historical and international contexts.
• Develop essential skills through a variety of coursework-based assessments – from essays, surveys and child observations to group presentations and video commentaries.
• Learn from experienced lecturers and tutors who are actively engaged in national and international research projects.