Nursery World - Degree benefits are immeasurable

I would like to respond to the feature 'The first degree' (16 May) as I feel the article painted a rather gloomy picture of the benefits for early years practitioners of studying for an Early Childhood Studies degree. The article acknowledged that such degrees can provide a route into teaching, and other careers, but then it reverted to the ongoing issue of low pay and inadequate career progression for early years practitioners. Only a limited range of views was presented. A more balanced perspective might have been offered if more students, and those on part-time degrees (combining studying with early years work) had been included.

The article acknowledged that such degrees can provide a route into teaching, and other careers, but then it reverted to the ongoing issue of low pay and inadequate career progression for early years practitioners. Only a limited range of views was presented. A more balanced perspective might have been offered if more students, and those on part-time degrees (combining studying with early years work) had been included.

In my limited experience as a senior lecturer on an early years degree course, I have encountered many students who are clearly benefiting from a deepened knowledge and ability to be genuine 'reflective practitioners'. This enhances their practice, which in turn allows the children and others they work with to benefit too.

Register now to continue reading

Thank you for visiting Nursery World and making use of our archive of more than 35,000 expert features, subject guides, case studies and policy updates. Why not register today and enjoy the following great benefits:

What's included