Early Years and Childhood Studies

How might modern-day pressures be impacting on children’s mental health and what factors are likely to influence their development? How do our individual experiences of childhood influence our views and perspectives? How can children and young people participate in society and how can this contribute to changes in policy and practice?

From exploring a range of different theoretical perspectives to analysing the thinking of key philosophers, on this course you’ll study the complex factors that affect children’s lives and explore ways to positively shape and influence their futures.

Studying subjects drawn from a range of disciplines, such as psychology, sociology, philosophy, and criminology, you’ll consider ethics, welfare, and the importance of policy and legislation relating to children. You’ll also learn about how childhood has changed over time both in the UK and globally and consider alternative perspectives relating to child development, including post-modern and socio-cultural theories.

You’ll reflect on your own experience of childhood and explore how it was shaped by society. You’ll also consider the diverse experiences of children, young people, families and communities and how policy on local, national and international levels affects children’s lives.

If you choose the associated units and meet the entry requirements, this programme will give you the opportunity to study for an Early Years Educator qualification. When you graduate, you will receive a degree, along with a Level 3 Early Years Educator practice status.

This course has a foundation year available.

Features and Benefits

Community links- We’ve created this course with the help of local employers from the education and health and social care sectors, as well as community and voluntary organisations, to help you develop the skills and knowledge you’ll need when you’re in the workplace.

Practical experience - You’ll have the opportunity to gain experience in an educational setting and contribute to real community projects.

Teaching expertise - Our teaching team has practical experience across a range of settings, including nursing, mental and sexual health, criminal justice, primary and secondary education, early years, local government and policy and research.

Learn more - You'll have the opportunity to learn about education beyond the classroom, looking at international perspectives of education and education within a community setting.