Early Childhood and Primary Education

Early childhood and primary education is a discipline that examines how young children learn and develop, how educational settings and pedagogical approaches support or hinder that development, and what it means to work with children from birth through to primary school age. It draws on developmental psychology, sociology, policy studies, and early years pedagogy to build a rigorous understanding of childhood as both a phase of life and a social and cultural construction. Effective early years and primary education is recognised as having lasting effects on children's outcomes, making those who work in these settings among the most influential professionals in any society.

At the University of Chester, this three-year full-time degree includes a foundation year, giving you a supported entry route if you would benefit from additional preparation before the main degree content begins. The foundation year builds the academic skills and subject knowledge the degree requires, making it accessible to students whose prior qualifications do not offer direct entry. You will study child development across the early childhood and primary years, early years pedagogy and curriculum, the sociology of childhood and family, inclusion and special educational needs, and the policy frameworks governing education from birth to primary.

Practical experience in educational settings is woven into the programme, developing your ability to observe, support, and reflect on children's learning in real environments.

Graduates of early childhood and primary education programmes pursue careers as early years practitioners, nursery and pre-school staff, primary teaching assistants, family support workers, and in child and family services in the voluntary and public sectors. For those wishing to qualify as primary school teachers, an additional qualification such as a PGCE or School Direct route is typically required. Further study options include postgraduate degrees in early childhood education, primary education, educational psychology, and social work.