EARLY CHILDHOOD STUDIES BA (HONS) TOP-UP DEGREE

Advance your expertise in early childhood education with a top-up degree that combines higher-level study, practical experience, and professional insight, preparing you to lead practice and pursue a rewarding career supporting children’s development in diverse settings.

The Early Childhood Studies BA Top-Up is a one-year programme designed to convert your existing qualifications or experience into a full degree. Taught over three days per week, it offers full-time status and the opportunity to gain vital work experience through weekly placements and additional block placements. The curriculum explores the factors influencing outcomes for children, intervention techniques, inclusive education, and key theories underpinning effective practice.

Unique advantages include access to lecturers with extensive experience in early years and education, ensuring teaching reflects current industry standards. Educational trips, such as exploring the Reggio Emilia approach in Italy and visiting centres in Finland, provide valuable international perspectives. Assessment methods are varied and practical, including written assignments, case studies, poster presentations, and a dissertation focused on a topic of personal interest.

Studying with us means joining a supportive academic community dedicated to your growth as a reflective and skilled practitioner. Graduates are well prepared for careers in early years teaching, education consultancy, family support, special educational needs coordination, and more, making this degree an excellent choice for those passionate about making a difference in children’s lives.

This degree is suitable for those who are passionate about working with children or within the early years sector, such as in schools, nurseries and pre-schools, and childminders. You might currently be studying a foundation degree or HND in a relevant subject, or wish to transfer from another higher education institution. It may also be possible for you to join this course following relevant professional qualifications and/or experience in the workplace.

During this degree you will explore how different teaching methods, support services and intervention techniques play a part in children’s development. You will be encouraged to develop a reflective, inclusive and professional approach within your own workplace practices. As part of the course you will complete a dissertation where you will have the opportunity to research a topic of special interest.

The structure of our programmes follows clear educational aims that are tailored to each programme. These are all outlined in the programme specifications which include further details such as the learning outcomes:

Programme Specification for Early Childhood Studies BA (Hons) Top-up Degree

Please note that while we make reasonable adjustments to remove any barriers to education, additional fees may be payable where this is not possible. For example, to provide additional support due to a disability. Please contact us if you believe you have any additional needs so that we can discuss your options before enrolling on a course.