Program Overview

BA (Hons) Early Childhood Education and Care (1 year top-up)

The BA (Hons) Early Childhood Education and Care (1 year top-up) is a one-year course designed for practitioners in the early years sector. This degree is tailored to meet the changing needs of employers in the sector, focusing on learning theories and practices for children aged 0-8.

Course Overview

• Duration: 1 year
• Mode: Full-time
• Typical offer: Find out more about entry requirements
• UCAS points:
• Course option: Standard course
• Start date: September 2026

About this Course

This course provides an opportunity for practitioners to progress their professional pathway in the early years sector. It combines academic rigor with practical skills, allowing students to develop the essential skills and attributes valued by employers. The course covers global perspectives in early childhood education and care, analyzing alternative learning environments and encouraging creative ways to engage children in learning.

Module Options

Each year, students study modules worth a certain number of credits, with most modules being 20 credits. Some longer modules, like a dissertation, are worth more credits. The course includes:

• International Perspectives in Early Childhood Education and Care
• Enabling Environments
• The Graduate Practitioner
• Voice of the Child
• Dissertation

Facilities

The university offers various facilities to support student learning, including:

• Early Years Room: A simulated early years learning environment
• Forest School Training Centre
• Brynmor Jones Library
• Education Lecture Room

Featured Academics

The course is taught by a team of experts in education, social care, health, inclusion, and therapeutic approaches. Notable academics include:

• Kerrie Lee: Lecturer with research focusing on environment, space, and place in young people's lives
• Dr. Cathy Kilburn: Programme Director with experience in early years practice and a Doctorate in Early Childhood Education

Entry Requirements

• Level 5 sector-specific qualification, such as an early years sector-endorsed foundation degree, plus experience working with 08 year-olds
• Foundation degree plus substantial experience working with 08 year-olds
• Vocational degree plus substantial experience working with 08 year-olds in a non-educational role
• English Language/Literature at Grade 4 or C or above
• Satisfactory enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service check
• Must be working or volunteering in an appropriate setting with children aged 0-8

Fees & Funding

• Tuition fees for 2027 entry have not been confirmed, but the standard course fee is Ł9,790 per year for UK students
• Additional costs may apply
• Students can take out a tuition fee loan and a maintenance loan to cover living costs

Future Prospects

Graduates of this course can pursue various career paths, including:

• Early years practitioner
• Community, social, or family support work
• Supporting children with additional needs
• Postgraduate study

Related Courses

Other courses offered by the university include:

• BEd Education and Childhood Studies (1 year top-up)
• BA (Hons) Education Studies
• BA (Hons) Education Studies (Youth and Community Work)
• BA (Hons) Education Studies (Special Educational Needs, Disability and Inclusion)