COURSE CURRICULUM

The Early Years Education and Care program is structured over three years to develop a strong understanding of child development, learning, and professional practice in early childhood settings. In the first year, students focus on the foundations of human development and the importance of children’s play in learning. They study key topics such as the first 1000 days of life, which highlights the crucial early stages of a child’s growth and development. The year also helps students build essential academic and professional skills while introducing concepts such as multilingual practice in early years environments. In the second year, the course focuses on supporting children’s learning and wellbeing. Students explore the development of language and literacy in the digital age and learn how to encourage curiosity in science, mathematics, and outdoor learning. This year also emphasises safeguarding practices, health and wellbeing, leadership, teamwork, and research skills that support professional development in early years education. In the final year, students examine more advanced topics related to leadership and management in early years settings. They explore inclusive leadership that supports families and communities, sustainability in early childhood education, and strategies for supporting children with additional learning needs. The program also covers early years curricula, quality management systems, and leadership skills in entrepreneurship, preparing graduates for leadership roles and continued professional growth in the early years sector.