COURSE CURRICULUM

The Early Childhood Education and Care degree provides a comprehensive understanding of child development and the factors that shape children’s lives from birth through early childhood. In the first year, students explore how babies and toddlers begin to understand the world, studying key physical, social, and emotional developmental milestones. They also examine the impact of wider systems, including family, community, policy, and legislation, on child development, supported by observational study visits to early years settings. In the second year, the focus expands to include the role of play in learning, communication, language, and literacy development, alongside issues of equality, diversity, and inclusion. Students also study research methods and gain practical experience through placements in early years services, applying theoretical knowledge to real-world contexts. In the final year, students consolidate their learning through placement experiences and explore complex aspects of multi-agency and interdisciplinary working, assessing children’s learning and development needs while considering international perspectives on childhood. The year also offers opportunities for in-depth research into areas of personal interest through a dissertation. Throughout the degree, students develop professional, observational, and research skills alongside an understanding of policy and practice, equipping them to work effectively with children, families, and colleagues across a range of early years education and care settings.