Working with young children is hugely rewarding and enormous fun. It can also be very challenging, and it’s a fast-paced sector. We will help you develop the skills, knowledge and qualities needed to deliver a high standard of professional practice in the workplace
Our modules have been designed to develop your understanding of professional and inclusive practice, supporting both the child and the family. Using theory and practical experiences you will explore current research around key topics including contemporary theories and pedagogical approaches, while building your leadership skills and considering possible careers across the early childhood sector.
On this course you will learn through practice, in our Early Childhood Resource and Research Room and through our optional placement or theoretical modules. Placements are optional and individually tailored to enable you to gain experience in a variety of different types of settings. Whether you decide to go on placement or not, you will have access to additional volunteering and work experience as well as the choice to take part in further professional development training opportunities, enrichment trips, research groups and various early childhood and education events.
Throughout your studies you will be taught by experts in the field of early childhood, using a variety of teaching methods and interactive technology to promote learning, including group activities, class debates and discussion, lectures and seminar sessions, as well as independent learning and study expectations. You will receive regular feedback and personal tutorial support throughout the course to develop both your academic and professional skills. You will also benefit from the research our lecturers are involved in through our Early Childhood Research Group.
If you have already completed a foundation degree (or equivalent), we also offer this course as a one-year top-up degree.
Foundation year option
You have the option to study this course as a four-year degree with foundation year. In your first year you'll study with our partner, ARU College on our Cambridge campus. After that:
UK students study with us in Chelmsford in years 2 to 4
EU and international students stay in Cambridge for Year 2, but study with us in Chelmsford in years 3 to 4.
More info: Click here
Level 4 modules
Learning and Development
Play, Health and Well-being
Researching Childhood
Practitioner 1
Level 5 modules
Safeguarding Children
Supporting Children's Learning
Embracing Diversity
Practitioner 2
Level 6 modules
Children's Rights
Interdisciplinary Perspectives
Undergraduate Major Project
Practitioner 3
We’ve worked with employers in designing our BA (Hons) Early Childhood Studies, to make sure you graduate with the knowledge, skills and abilities they need. We’ve also been guided by The Children’s Workforce Development Council and the Early Years Professional Framework.
Insurance – Single: 300 GBP per year
