Early Learning and Childcare

Early learning and childcare is a professional field concerned with the education, development and wellbeing of children from birth to the early years of primary school. It is a discipline grounded in understanding how young children develop, how play and interaction support cognitive and emotional growth, and how practitioners can create environments that help all children flourish. Early years work is recognised as one of the most significant influences on children's long-term outcomes, making it both professionally demanding and genuinely important.

At the University of the Highlands and Islands, this three-year full-time programme prepares you to work with young children in a range of early years settings. You will develop your understanding of child development, early learning theories, curriculum frameworks in Scotland, safeguarding and the professional skills needed to support children and work effectively with their families. The programme draws on the Scottish context, engaging with the curriculum for excellence, the expansion of early learning and childcare provision in Scotland, and the professional standards that govern the field.

The programme combines academic study with practical engagement, giving you the opportunity to develop your skills in real early years environments. You will learn to observe children's development, plan activities that support learning across all areas of development, and communicate effectively with parents and carers. The professional development dimension of the course prepares you for the realities of working in settings that range from nurseries and childminding to school-based nursery classes and integrated family support services.

Graduates work in local authority nurseries and early years centres, private nurseries, childminding, school nursery settings and family support services across Scotland. Many graduate with professional registration relevant to the early years sector, and some go on to further study in education, social work or early childhood studies.