BA (Hons) Early Childhood Studies Top Up

You will acquire confidence in your professional role and meet the challenges of change and innovation in early childhood practice, lifelong learning and diversity. You will also develop an understanding of theories, concepts and debates surrounding the topics explored in the individual modules.

This on campus programme has been designed to consolidate and extend your existing skills, knowledge and understanding of your professional practice by investigation, analysis and reflection on aspects of your work with children. This programme is suited to students who are employed in the sector or in a voluntary placement for a minimum of 2 days.

There is a requirement to attend taught sessions one evening per week, as well as engage with online activities, as part of a blended learning approach

Course Structure

Modules:

Level 6
Language, Learning and Literacy [20 credits]
Current Issues and Contemporary Debates [20 credits]
Innovation and Change [20 credits]
The Reflective Practitioner [20 credits]
Early Years Dissertation [40 credits]

All modules are subject to availability and this list may change at any time

The programme will require approx. 8-12 hours a week of private study to access study materials and engage with wider reading and research.

The course is delivered through lectures, seminars, presentations, tutorials and group work.

The course is delivered through lectures, seminars, presentations, tutorials and group work. A range of assessment methods are used including projects, presentations, posters and essay.

Foundation Degree Early Childhood Studies or a Higher National Diploma in a relevant area such as Education or Early Years Studies, plus 3 years’ experience within the sector whether employed or voluntary.

Additional Requirements:
A suitable DBS Enhanced Certificate is required

There is a minimum requirement that practitioners are either in paid employment or undertaking a voluntary placement for a minimum of 2 days per week. It will underpin practitioners’ experiences in the workplace through studying a suite of modules that will enhance and support career progression.

GCSE Requirements:
Grade 4/C in GCSE English and mathematics is desirable but not essential. If you do not have these qualifications, you will still be accepted onto the programme but would need to realise that future employment might require this.

As part of this programme of study you will be required to have a valid enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check. You will be required to pay the cost of this. A DBS must be in place before you start your placement. You may be able to supply an existing DBS but this must be within 3 years of issue.

This qualification is valued by employers and is seen as a mark of your professional excellence and expertise, enabling you to develop your career.

Once you complete this course, you will be well-placed to pursue postgraduate opportunities to enhance your professional development, for example a master’s in Early Childhood Studies.