The curriculum structure will normally be the following modules:
- Contemporary Issues in Early Childhood 20 credits (Employment based)
- Protection, Power and Participation 20 credits (Employment based)
- Leadership and Management in Early Years 20 credits (Employment based)
- Social Pedagogy 20 credits (Employment based)
- Early Childhood Independent Study 40 credits (Employment based)
The curriculum is reviewed annually by the Stakeholder Committee.
Contemporary Issues in Early Childhood 20 credits (Employment based)
This module develops knowledge, skills and concepts through a critical understanding of the complexity of factors that impact upon the growth and development of young children. For example you might explore the debates and philosophies surrounding the education and care of young children in the UK and around the world. You will be encouraged to reflect upon the ways in which your own values influence your thinking and the impact on the choices you will make on behalf of children and families in your future careers.
Protection, Power and Participation 20 credits (Employment based)
This course module provides you with opportunities to explore, analyse and critically evaluate the concepts of protection, power and participation in different contexts and from a range of perspectives. Through discussion you can explore and analyse the implications of these concepts for children, families, society, services and professionals.
Leadership and Management in Early Years 20 credits (Employment based)
The focus of this module is to examine the key concepts, definitions, theories and philosophies relating to early childhood leadership and management and debate the relationships between theory, policy, research, and ethical practice in the context of leading and managing change. You will identify the key management and leadership styles, roles and theories alongside the challenges and constraints required for leadership and management in a range of contemporary early years professionals within a multi-professional framework.
Social Pedagogy 20 credits (Employment based)
Knowledge and understanding of the purpose, scope and breadth of social pedagogy in the context of meeting the changing needs of the child is the focal point of this module. Theoretical perspectives of pedagogy will be examined within the context of leading practice and leading change. You will critically explore and examine creative approaches to social pedagogy and how this links to relationships with children, for example, through the key person approach, and quality frameworks that aim to enhance experiences and outcomes for children.
Early Childhood Independent Study 40 credits (Employment based)
This module provides you with an opportunity to follow a sustained line of enquiry in an area of interest related to early childhood and to produce a high quality structured and relevant research project which may inform future career development.
We continually review and where appropriate, revise the range of modules on offer to reflect changes in the subject and ensure the best student experience. We will inform applicants of any changes to the course structure before enrolment.