Program Overview

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Early Childhood and Primary Education BA (Hons)

Overview

The Early Childhood and Primary Education BA (Hons) course is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the transformative power of education in the early childhood and primary sectors. The course explores contemporary thinking relating to play, social and emotional development, and the philosophy of childhood and education.

Study Options

• Full-Time (BA) at Exton Park, Chester
• Full-Time with Foundation Year (BA) at Exton Park, Chester

Level

• Undergraduate

UCAS Code

• X325 (3 years)
• X326 (4 years with Foundation Year)

UCAS Points

• 104 points (3 years)
• 72 points (4 years with Foundation Year)

Start Date

• October 2025
• October 2026

Duration

• 3 years
• 4 years with Foundation Year

Location

• Exton Park, Chester

UK Fees

• £9,535 per year for a full-time course (2025/26)
• £5,760 for the first foundation year, then £9,535 per annum for the following years (2025/26)

International Fees

• £14,450 per year for a full-time course (2025/26)
• £10,750 for the first foundation year, then £14,450 per annum for the following years (2025/26)

Course Leader

• Dr Debbie Ravenscroft

Available with:

• Foundation Year
• Early Childhood Studies (Optional Specialist Pathway)
• Primary Education (Optional Specialist Pathway)

Course Summary

The education landscape plays a critical role in children's cognitive and emotional development, and how they progress through later life. This course specialises in the transformative power within both the primary education and early childhood sectors, and is perfect if you wish to discuss, discover and analyse in depth why learning experiences are vital.

Why You'll Love It

• Placements that connect you with the minds of the young: Placement opportunities throughout each year of study allow you to observe experienced practitioners and to deepen and develop your knowledge of children in education.
• Experienced lecturers who provide more than just teaching: Course tutors bring a wealth of industry expertise from the early years through to the primary sector, have backgrounds rooted in teaching, and are research active, contributing to global conversations about current issues.
• Opportunities for careers and employment across the 0-11 age range: Armed with the underpinning knowledge of childhood and the education system, interesting and exciting career opportunities await you as a Chester graduate.

Specialist Pathways

• Early Childhood Studies pathway: Our Early Childhood Studies pathway will provide a critical understanding of social, political and cultural perspectives on early childhood learning. It will encourage independent thinking as you analyse theory and practice in early years settings.
• Primary Education pathway: Our pathway in Primary Education Studies will equip you with the skills to think critically and apply educational theory to classroom practice. It will also enable you to make a direct impact on primary school learners' academic, social and emotional development.

What You'll Study

• Foundation Year: The Professional Studies Foundation Year route is designed to provide you with the knowledge and skills you will need to be successful at university and whilst on a professional and vocational course.
• Year 1: You will be introduced to holistic child development, the history and philosophy of childhood education, and the foundation of play.
• Year 2: You will develop all that you have learnt in your first year and engage with more complex learning that offers you the opportunity to reflect on the contemporary issues in childhood that contribute to children's lives.
• Year 3: You will become an independent, critical thinker and, as such, you will be well prepared to further explore the complexities and debates which surround the lives of children, both in their personal and educational experiences.

How You'll Learn

• This course is designed around in-person study.
• You will be assessed in a variety of ways.
• Study three to six modules per year.
• Curriculum developed to match workforce priorities.

Entry Requirements

• Home Students: UCAS Points: 104 points. GCE A Level: Typical offer – CCC-BCC. BTEC: BTEC Extended Diploma: DMM.
• International Students: UCAS Points: 72 points. GCE A Level: Typical offer – DDD. BTEC: MMP.
• Foundation Year: UCAS Points: 72 points. GCE A Level: Typical offer – DDD. BTEC: MMP.

Fees and Funding

• Home Students: £9,535 per year for a full-time course (2025/26).
• International Students: £14,450 per year for a full-time course (2025/26).
• Foundation Year: £5,760 for the first foundation year, then £9,535 per annum for the following years (2025/26).

Who You'll Learn From

• Dr Debbie Ravenscroft: Senior Lecturer.
• Jeanette Bell: Senior Lecturer.
• Dr Heather Macdonald: Senior Lecturer and Programme Leader for the MA in Education.
• Dr Helen Eadon-sinkinson: Senior Lecturer.
• Dr Chandrika Devarakonda: Associate Professor.
• Ruth Proctor: Senior Lecturer.
• Kelly Bradburne-tailby: Senior Lecturer.

Where You'll Study

• Exton Park, Chester: Close to the city centre of Chester, a city like no other and an amazing place to live as a student.

Your Future Career

• Job Prospects: With key transferrable skills, graduates may directly access various professional roles, including teaching assistant, early years educator, children and families support worker, policing, or they may choose to enter the charity sector.
• Careers Service: The University has an award-winning Careers and Employability service, which provides a variety of employability-enhancing experiences; through the curriculum, through employer contact, tailored group sessions, individual information, advice and guidance.