Early Years

The early years of a child's life, roughly from birth to the age of eight, are now understood to be among the most developmentally significant of all. Research across neuroscience, developmental psychology, and education has established that the experiences children have in this period shape cognitive development, emotional regulation, language acquisition, and social skills in ways that influence outcomes across the whole of their lives. Working in early years is therefore not simply caring for young children; it is participating in one of the most consequential forms of education there is.

This two-year full-time foundation degree at the University of St Mark and St John is designed for people who are already working in early years settings and want to deepen their professional knowledge while continuing in practice. You will study the theoretical frameworks underpinning child development and early learning, explore approaches to observation and assessment, and examine how environments and relationships shape children's growth. The programme develops your ability to reflect critically on your own practice, to engage with current policy and research, and to support children's wellbeing and development with greater confidence and skill.

The combination of academic study and workplace experience means that theory and practice inform each other throughout.

Completion of this foundation degree opens up routes to further qualifications, including top-up to a full honours degree in Early Childhood Studies or related fields. Graduates work in nurseries, pre-schools, children's centres, primary schools, and a range of support and intervention settings. The qualification is also a foundation for roles with greater responsibility, including management and leadership within early years provision, and for work with other professionals in integrated children's services.