Program Overview

Introduction to the Early Years Professional Leadership for England Course

The Higher National Diploma (HND) Early Years Professional Leadership for England course is designed with a strong emphasis on employer engagement and work readiness. This course reflects the increasing demand for highly qualified practitioners working in the Early Years Sector.

About the Course

Studying with NTU at Mansfield, students will enhance their knowledge, skills, and behaviors to improve the quality of learning and development in their setting. They will become proactive and influential Early Years practitioners, advocating play-based learning and supporting others to develop their own practice.

Course Details

• UCAS code: X365
• Level of study: Undergraduate
• Typical offer: 56 - 64 UCAS tariff points
• Start date: September 2026
• Duration: 2 years
• Attendance: Full-time
• Course delivery: On-campus (Mansfield Hub)
• The course is accredited and offers work placement opportunities.

Course Structure

The course is designed for those working or aspiring to work with and caring for children from 0–5 years, with knowledge of 5–8 years. It is suitable for those already working in, or aspiring to work in Early Years childcare, with responsibility for leading other practitioners or groups who hold a Level 3 qualification in Early Years.

Modules

The course includes a range of modules, such as:

• Personal and Professional Development through Reflective Practice
• Protecting Children in Early Education and Care Environments
• Play and Learning in Early Childhood
• Supporting and Promoting Children's Development (Infants and Toddlers)
• Supporting and Promoting Children's Development (Young Children)
• Promoting Healthy Living
• Preparing for Research
• Promoting Inclusive Early Education and Care Environments
• Investigating Childhood: Action Research for early Childhood Practitioners
• Improving Quality in Early Education and Care Environments
• Current and Emerging Pedagogies in Early Childhood Education and Care
• Advanced Practice in Safeguarding and Child Protection for the Early Childhood Practitioner
• Managing and Leading People in Children's Early Education and Care Environments
• Managing Children's Early Education and Care Environments
• Mentoring and Supervision in Early Childhood Education and Care Practice

Teaching and Assessment

• The course will be delivered over two and a half days per week.
• Total Qualification Time on the HNC is 1,200 hours and 2,400 hours on the HND.
• Guided Learning on the HNC is 480 hours and 960 hours on the HND.
• Students will complete a total of 525 placement hours throughout the course.
• Assessments will include written reports, essays, creation of planning documents, work-based projects and portfolios, academic posters, displays, leaflets, PowerPoint presentations, recordings of interviews/role plays, work placement logbooks and reflective journals, workplace observation of practice and assessment records, presentations with assessor questioning, and professional discussion.

Entry Requirements

• UK students: Standard Offer: 64 UCAS Tariff points from three A-Levels or equivalent qualifications. Contextual Offer: 56 UCAS Tariff points from three A-Levels or equivalent qualifications. Other requirements: GCSE English and Maths grade C / 4; or Equivalent qualifications such as Functional Skills Level 2, Enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check.
• International students: This course is not suitable for tier 4 visa applicants.

Fees and Funding

• UK students: £9,790 per year. Please note, this fee is subject to parliamentary procedure. It is expected to be confirmed in early 2026 and may change in future years of study.
• International students: This course is not suitable for applicants who require a student visa.

Careers and Employability

The course offers an introduction to Early Childhood, Education and Care, as well as equipping students with the skills, knowledge, behaviors, and experience relevant to the workplace or placement. Students will be prepared for a career in a number of different settings in the early years education, leadership, and care sector.

Campus and Facilities

As an NTU Mansfield student, you will benefit from the latest facilities and modern technology to support your studies and help you get the most out of student life. Facilities and services include the University Centre, Early Childhood Simulation Suite, Teaching and Learning Centre, Library, dedicated study zones, on-site café, social spaces, sports facilities, Student Support Services, and Nottingham Trent Students Union (NTSU) drop-in events.