BTec, HNC, HND courses
BTec Higher National Diploma (HND) and Higher National Certificate (HNC) in Early Childhood Studies, at colleges around the UK. These are both Level 4 qualifications. Prospective students who want to further their theoretical knowledge of early years issues must be aged over 18 and already have either a relevant BTec national qualification, a vocational A-level (AVCE) or one A-level or equivalent and four GCSEs. Note that these qualifications are due to be revised and updated this autumn.
Contact Edexcel Customer Response Centre, Stewart House, 32 Russell Square, London WC1B 5DN (08702 409800, e-mail enquiries@edexcel.org.uk,website www.edexcel.org.uk).
BTec National Diploma and National Certificate are Level 3 equivalent qualifications and are recognised access routes to higher education. Both of these existing qualifications provide a licence to practice for early years practitioners. Revised versions will be on the National Qualifications Framework in September and will be available for delivery from September 2002.
Contact Edexcel, as above.
BTec Higher National Diploma (HND) in Early Childhood Studies, at Bridgwater College. Bridgwater College is the only college in the country where students can train at an Early Excellence Centre. The BTec Higher National Diploma is a two-year course which will lead either to employment or further study for a degree. It is for those working towards management or administrative posts in a range of early years settings or wanting to upgrade to degree level and teacher training. Its residential programme gives students the opportunity to experience a wide range of childcare facilities in London, other parts of the UK and mainland Europe. The college also offers a number of part-time courses including the BTec Advanced Award for Forest School Leaders, which is for people working with young children outdoors, the BTec Intermediate Award for Classroom Assistants (Primary), for those already working or volunteering in a classroom, and the BTec Diploma for Learning Needs Support Assistants, for those already working as learning support assistants with children who have additional needs.
Contact Pat Isaac, Section leader: Early years and Education, Bridgwater College, Bath Road, Bridgwater, Somerset TA6 4PZ (01278 441234, fax 01278 444363, e-mail inbox@bridgwater.ac.uk).
Diploma of Higher Education - Educare, at Liverpool John Moores University. This is a three-year part-time programme for those working in a variety of early years settings and who have a nursery nurse qualification. The emphasis is on building on to the understanding which has been gained through knowledge and experience to enhance professional progression.
Contact the School of Health and Human Sciences, Liverpool John Moores University, 79 Tithebarn Street, Liverpool L2 2ER (0151 231 4298, fax 0151 258 1593, e-mail health@livjm.ac.uk).
Early Childhood Studies Modular Scheme, at the University of North London. This is a flexible, modular course aimed at everyone with three years' or more experience of working with children under the age of eight and an ongoing involvement with childcare. The main awards are the Certificate of Higher Education (eight modules), the Diploma of Higher Education (16 modules), the BA (20 modules), the BA Hons (22 modules plus project) and the Diploma in Professional Studies. Modules include child development, the early years curriculum, and health and management issues.
The course is available in distance learning mode and part-time evening attendance. Some childcare and educational qualifications, such as the ADCE and CPQS, allow students to begin at the second level of the degree. Students are taken on a termly basis, in October, January and April.
Contact Ian Fielding, Administrator, Admissions Department, University of North London, 166-220 Holloway Road, London N7 8DB (020 7753 3355, website www.unl.ac.uk).
HNC in Childcare and Education, at Borders College. A one-year full-time course which offers a programme of Higher National Units and assessed work experience. Preferred entry requirements include the successful completion of the National Certificate in Childcare and Education or the SVQ in Childcare and Education at Level 2. Mature students who have appropriate practical experience in working with young children, and have good written and oral communication skills can gain direct entry but will not be able to register with the Board on completion.
Contact Val MacDonald, Borders College, Commercial Road, Hawick TD9 7AW (01450 374191, fax 01450 377164, e-mail info. bordcoll@scotborders.co.uk).
HNC in Child Care and Education, at Cardonald College, Glasgow. A one-year full-time course which offers a programme of Higher National Units and assessed work experience. Students who successfully complete the national certificate in childcare and are also successful in completing the Higher National Certificate programme can apply to the Scottish Childcare and Education Board to become registered. The qualification could lead to employment in nurseries, schools, hospitals and other childcare facilities, or to teacher training.
Core units include family issues in childcare and education, child protection, how children develop and learn, curriculum approaches in childcare and education, provision of special services for children, assessment approaches in childcare and education, workplace practice experience in a childcare and education setting, and developing personal effectiveness in a care setting.
Preferred entry requirements include the successful completion of the National Certificate in Child Care programme or GSVQ in Child Care and Education at Level 3 with appropriate childcare options or other equivalent awards, and appropriate practical experience in working with children. Candidates who possess HNC Childcare may apply to enter Year Two of a three-year degree programme, BA Early Childhood Studies.
Contact Jacqui Harvey or Donna Taylor, Cardonald College, 690 Mosspark Drive, Glasgow G52 3AY (0141 272 3264 or 0141 272 3275).
HNC in Early Childhood Studies, at Coventry Technical College. The entry requirements for this two-year part-time course are the CACHE Diploma in Child Care and Education or BTec in Childhood Studies, NVQ Level 3 and working with children at the present time either on a paid or voluntary basis. The course includes professional studies, managing people, pedagogy, interpersonal and communication skills, curriculum, language, mathematics and science.
Contact Sally Lightfoot, Coventry Technical College, The Butts, Coventry CV1 3GD (024 7652 6700, fax 024 7652 6789, e-mail sally.lightfoot@covcollege.ac.uk).
HNC in Child Care and Education, at Dumfries and Galloway College. A one-year full-time course which offers a programme of Higher National Units and assessed work experience which encompasses key skills from the SVQ Level 3 in Child Care. Students who successfully complete the national certificate in childcare and are also successful in completing the Higher National Certificate programme can apply to the Scottish Childcare and Education Board to become registered. The qualification could lead to employment in nurseries, schools, hospitals and other childcare facilities, or to teacher training.
Core units include family issues in childcare and education, child protection, how children develop and learn, curriculum approaches in childcare and education, and provision of special services for children. Preferred entry requirements include the successful completion of both the National Certificate in Child Care programme and GSVQ in Care at Level 3 with appropriate childcare options or other equivalent awards, and appropriate practical experience in working with children. Candidates who possess HNC Childcare may apply to enter Year Two of a three-year degree programme, BA Childhood Studies, delivered at University of Paisley, Ayr Campus and Dumfries and Galloway College.
Contact Admissions, Dumfries and Galloway College, Heathhall, Dumfries DG1 3QZ (01387 243818, fax 01387 250006, or e-mail info@dumgal.co.uk).
HNC in Childcare and Education, at Dundee College. A one-year full-time course which offers a programme of Higher National Units and assessed work experience. Units studied include family issues in childcare and education, child protection, provision of special services for children, how children develop and learn, curriculum approaches in childcare and education, and assessment approaches in childcare and education.
Preferred entry requirements include the successful completion of the National Certificate in Childcare and Education, GSVQ Level 3 Childcare or SVQ Level 2 Early Years Care and Education. Dundee College also runs an Access to HNC programme for mature students with appropriate practical experience of working with children. The National Certificate plus HNC could lead to employment within nursery schools and other childcare facilities. Students who complete the National Certificate and Higher National Certificate are also eligible to apply for registration with the Scottish Childcare and Education Board.
Contact Dundee College, Melrose Campus, Melrose Terrace, Dundee DD3 7QX (01382 834834, fax 01382 458153).
HNC Early Childhood Studies, at the East Antrim Institute of Further and Higher Education, Newtownabbey. This two-year part-time course offers a range of Higher National Units and assessed work experience. Mature students with appropriate experience in working with young children, and who have good written and oral communication skills can gain direct entry.
The Institute also has an HND part-time Early Childhood Studies course. A three-year part-time modular course for students aged 18 or over, students must gain appropriate workplace experience in a childcare and education setting.
Contact either Student Services or the School of Social, Caring and Personal Services, East Antrim Institute of Further and Higher Education, 400 Shore Road, Newtownabbey BT37 9RS (028 9085 5000, fax 028 9086 2076).
HNC in in Childcare and Education, at Edinburgh's Telford College. A one-year full-time course or 18 months part-time which offers a programme of Higher National Units and placement experience. Students who complete the relevant Childcare Certificate Childcare and Education modules, and who are also successful in completing the Higher National programme can apply to the Scottish Childcare and Education Board for full registration.
Preferred entry requirements are appropriate National Childcare Certificate Modules or a SVQ Level 2 in Childcare and Education.
Contact Geraldine Gould, Edinburgh's Telford College, Crewe Toll, Edinburgh EH4 2NZ (0131 315 7283, fax 0131 343 1218, e-mail lyons@ed/telford. college.uk).
HNC in Childcare and Education, at Glasgow College of Nautical Studies. This 12-credit award course is either full-or part-time (evenings and day release). It comprises theory and workplace-based units, including how children develop and learn, curriculum approaches, assessment approaches, and child protection and personal effectiveness. Access to the course is on completion of the National Certificate programme in Childcare and Education, SVQ 2 Childcare and Education or proven childcare experience and academic ability.
Successful candidates will be employed in childcare and education establishments.
Contact Alice Sharp, Senior Lecturer, School of Childcare, Education and Health, Faculty of Care and Social Studies, Glasgow College of Nautical Studies, 21 Thistle Street, Glasgow G5 9XB (0141 565 2809, fax 0141 565 2801, e-mail a.sharpe@glasgow-nautical.ac.ukor m.mcculloch @glasgow-nautical.ac.uk).
HNC Child Care and Education at Langside College Glasgow. A one-year, full-time course which offers a programme of Higher National Units which include theoretical and practical aspects. Entrants will normally have gained the National Certificate in Child Care and education and/or SVQ II Child Care and Education. Two days per week are spent in local authority pre-five establishments. The College also offers a Professional Development Award (PDA) Certificate in Child Care and Education. This is a one-year, part-time course offered two evenings per week. Applicants should be working in the field of early years care and education to enable them to link theory and practice.
Contact Jean Carwood-Edwards, Senior Lecturer, HNC Child Care and Education, Langside College Glasgow, 50 Prospecthill Road, Glasgow G42 9LB (0141 649 4991).
HNC in Childcare and Education, at South Lanarkshire College. This one-year full-time course, integrated with practical placements, covers family issues in childcare and education, how children develop and learn, curriculum approaches to childcare and education, provision of special services for children, assessment approaches in childcare and education, child protection, and developing personal effectiveness in a care setting. Applicants must have the National Certificate in Childcare and Education or CACHE Diploma in Child Care and Education or equivalent, and relevant childcare experience. The course begins in August. The HNC is also offered on an evening class basis on two evenings a week for 36 weeks. Successful completion of this course would enable students to progress to the registered paediatric nurse programme, the Diploma in Social Work and Degree in Health Studies.
Contact the Admissions Unit, South Lanarkshire College, Freepost GW7268, East Kilbride G74 1BR (01355 270750).
HNC in Early Childhood Studies, at Stockport College of Further and Higher Education. The two-year course is aimed at mature students who are working in early years settings. It is appropriate for people wishing to work towards management/supervisory roles in the sector, or who wish to enter relevant degree courses at level two or the Diploma in Social Work. The course comprises ten units of study covering curriculum approaches, teaching and learning strategies, assessment procedures, management issues, family issues in society, social policy and legislation, and professional development. Attendance is two evenings a week to allow for those in full-time employment.
Contact Stockport College of Further and Higher Education, Centre for Childhood Studies, Wellington Road South, Stockport SK1 3UQ (0161 958 3566, fax 0161 958 3554).
HNC/HND in Early Childhood Studies, at St Helens College. The HNC is a two-year, part-time programme for daycare, educational and community employees working with children aged nought to eight, unemployed people with relevant work experience and those wanting to work towards a management role in the early years environment. It may also provide access on to degree courses. Potential students should be aged at least 18 and have either a BTec national qualification in a relevant subject, a CACHE Diploma in Child Care and Education and experience, an Advanced GNVQ in a relevant subject, an A Level and four GCSEs in relevant subjects, or an equivalent qualification.
Special entry arrangements can be made in some cases at the college's discretion. The HND is a two-year, full-time programme. Both programmes have a core of compulsory subjects together with a number of optional modules. The core subjects are Professional studies 1 and 2, which focuses on the management and organisation of young children and associated adults in early years environments, Aspects of social policy and legislation, Learning development, Interpersonal and communication skills, and the Early years curriculum.
Contact St Helens College, Town Centre Campus, Brook Street, St Helens, Merseyside WA10 1PZ (01744 733766).
HND/HNC in Care Practice, at St Helens College. The HNC is a two-year, part-time programme in which students complete a total of ten units. The course is designed for people who wish to work or already work in the health and caring professions. It would also provide students access to a degree course or a diploma in social work. Potential students should be aged 18 and have either a BTec national qualification in a relevant subject, a GNVQ Advanced in a relevant subject, an NVQ Level 3 in care or childcare, or an A-level and four GCSEs in relevant subjects. Special entry arrangements can be made in some cases at the college's discretion.
The HND is a two-year, full-time programme in which students complete 16 units. Both programmes have a core of compulsory subjects with a number of option modules. These include Quality in health and care services, Equality, diversity and rights, Applied social and psychological studies, Professional practice, and Understanding the research process.
Contact St Helens College, as above.
HND/HNC in Early Childhood Studies, at the Birmingham College of Food, Tourism and Creative Studies. A two-year full-time or part-time course which focuses on all aspects of childhood and aims to progress students to management or degree level. Entry requirements are CACHE Diploma in Child Care and Education, NVQ Level 3, GNVQ Advanced and/or A-levels or BTec National Diploma.
Contact Birmingham College of Food, Tourism and Creative Studies,Summer Row, Birmingham B3 1JB (0121 693 5959).
HND in Early Childhood Studies, at Coventry Technical College. The entry requirements for this full-time, two-year course are A-levels, CACHE Diploma in Child Care and Education or BTec in Childhood Studies, GNVQ Advanced or as a mature student. The course includes professional studies, managing people, pedagogy, interpersonal and communication skills, curriculum, language, mathematics and science.
Contact Sally Lightfoot, Coventry Technical College, as above.
HND in Early Childhood Studies, at Guildford College. This two-year full-time or three-year part-time course aims to progress students to management positions or degree level. The entry level is either A-Level, GNVQ Advanced, NNEB or equivalent, or as a mature student. Core subjects include professional studies, aspects of social policy and legislation, interpersonal and communication skills and Early Years curriculum plus other modules to suit students' chosen specialism.
Contact Advice and Information, Guildford College, Stoke Park, Guildford, Surrey GU1 1EZ (01483 44 8585, e-mail info@guildford. ac.uk, website www.guildford. ac.uk).
HND in Early Childhood Studies, at Stockport College of Further and Higher Education. The programme develops and extends knowledge and skills needed for employment in early years environments. It is rooted in a theoretical framework which underpins all placement-based experience and emphasises the need to link theory to effective practice. There are 16 modules studied which incorporate many aspects of child development and education. It is a two-year, full-time programme, with an integral placement element.
Assessment is through assignments, research projects, presentations, seminars, group work and placement-based activities. Progression to levels two and three of the BA (Hons) Professional Studies degree is available on successful completion of the programme. Entry requirements are four GCSEs, all at grade C or above, and BTec National Diploma or equivalent, or two points at A-level or GNVQ Advanced.
Contact Stockport College of Further and Higher Education, Centre for Childhood Studies, as above.
National Certificate (NC) in Childcare and Education, at Anniesland College, Glasgow. Preliminary registration is on the basis of modules which cover both theory and a practical placement. The college also has an HNC in Childcare and Education course which leads to full registration. It has a placement element.
Contact Kate Lonergen, Anniesland College, 19 Hatfield Drive, Glasgow G12 0YE (0141 357 3969, fax 0141 357 6557).
National Certificate (NC) in Childcare and Education, at Edinburgh's Telford College. A one-year full-time course which offers a programme of National Certificate modules and placement experience. Students who successfully complete the programme can apply to the Scottish Childcare and Education Board for preliminary registration. Employment opportunities would include nursery assistant or creche assistant.
Contact Jacky Gillan, Edinburgh's Telford College, Crewe Toll, Edinburgh EH4 2NZ (0131 315 7283, fax 0131 343 1218, e-mail lyons@ed/telford.college.uk).
National Certificate (NC) in Child Care and Education, at Langside College Glasgow. A one-year, full-time course which offers a programme of National Certificate modules which include theoretical and practical aspects. Two days a week are spent in a local authority pre-five establishment.
Contact Mattie Beal, Langside College Glasgow, 50 Prospecthill Road, Glasgow G42 9LB (0141 649 4991).
National Certificate (NC) in Childcare and Education, at South Lanarkshire College. This one-year full-time course covers topics including an introduction to child development, child health, play experience for the young child, promoting positive behaviour in children, and partnership in childcare and education.
Applicants should be aged 17 or over at the start of the course, which begins in August. They must have six standard grades, with one in English at a general or credit level. Experience of working with children would be an advantage. Mature students may be accepted for the course without the above qualifications. This course is also offered on an evening class basis on two evenings a week for 36 weeks. Successful completion of the course would enable students to progress to HNC Childcare and Education.
Contact the Admissions Unit, South Lanarkshire College, Freepost GW7268, East Kilbride G74 1BR (01355 270750).
Professional development
Advanced Diploma in Child Care and Education (ADCE), at many colleges throughout the country. Taking one-year full-time or up to five years part-time, this award is a higher level award aimed at early years workers with several years' experience, NVQ Level 3 or the CACHE Diploma in Child Care and Education. Note that this is not an initial qualification. There are six modules including early years curriculum, observation and assessment, and a dissertation.
Contact the Council for Awards in Children's Care and Education (CACHE), 8 Chequer Street, St Albans, Herts AL1 3XZ (01727 847636, fax 01727 867333, e-mail info@cache.org.uk,website www.cache.org.uk).
Personal and Social Development, at Dundee College. Run in conjunction with Northern College, this first-level degree course is a component of the BA Early Childhood Studies. The ten-week course has more time for assessment and takes the form of lectures and tutorials.
Candidates should have an HNC and PDA in Child Care and Education or SNNB or SVQ Level 3 plus the Accreditation Unit.
Contact Gwen Grandison, Dundee College, as above.
Professional Development Award (PDA) in Childcare and Education, at Borders College. This two-year part-time evening class course offers a programme of Higher National Level units on a post-qualifying basis to childcare and education professionals. Participants must already be qualified to HNC/SVQ Level 3 standards.
Contact Val MacDonald, Borders College, as above.
Professional Development Award (PDA) Certificate in Childcare and Education, at Dundee College. A part-time evening course over a year for qualified nursery nurses who want to update and extend their knowledge and skills. It offers Higher National Units in the areas of quality issues of childcare and education, European perspectives in childcare and education, promotion of language and literacy in a childcare and education setting, and effective leadership in childcare and education. Students also have the opportunity to complete a professional study of their choice.
Contact Dundee College, as above.
Professional Development Award (PDA) in Childcare and Education, at Edinburgh's Telford College. An 18-month evening course which offers a programme of units on effective leadership, quality issues, language and literacy, and European issues in childcare and education. This is a post-qualifying award which is open to all candidates with a relevant childcare and education qualification. This award would be suitable for candidates in a management position or who wish to be nursery supervisors or managers.
Contact Linda Lyons, Edinburgh's Telford College, as above.
Professional Development Award (PDA) Certificate in Childcare and Education, at Glasgow College of Nautical Studies. This six-credit award is aimed at those with experience of working in childcare and education who want to update their skills and knowledge. The part-time course covers the following topics - Quality issues, European perspectives, Effective leadership, Promotion of language and literacy, and Professional study in childcare and education.
Contact Alice Sharp, Glasgow College of Nautical Studies, as above.
Professional Development Awards (PDA) in Child Care, at Glenrothes College. In addition to SVQ, NC and HNC programmes in Child Care and Education, Glenrothes College offers three Professional Development Awards - the PDA in Child Care and Education (HND level, for those already qualified - SNNB or equivalent); the PDA Certificate: Support for Learning Assistants (Intermediate Level 2) and the PDA Certificate: Classroom Assistant (Intermediate Level 2) for those working or wishing to work as classroom auxiliaries or classroom assistants. Classes take place in the evenings.
Contact Donna Martin-Dilley, Child Care and Education, Glenrothes College, Stenton Road, Glenrothes KY6 2RA (01592 568079).
Professional Development Award (PDA) Certificate in Child Care and Education (advanced practice), at James Watt College of Further and Higher Education. The College takes a modern approach to course work, especially current early years curricular thinking, and actively encourages men to pursue careers in childcare and education, and as classroom assistants. Other courses at the College are the National Certificate in Child Care and Education, Higher National Certificate in Child Care and Education and SVQ Early Years Care and Education, and are available on a full-time, part-time or flexible basis. There is a large open learning facility for students who cannot attend full-time and all courses involve a high level of practical work in first-rate pre-school settings and primary schools with an allocated trainer.
Contact Morag Wilson, James Watt College of Further and Higher Education, Finnart Campus, Finnart Street, Greenock, Renfrewshire PA16 8HF (01475 724433).
Degrees and postgraduate courses
Accreditation Unit: BA Early Childhood Studies, at Dundee College. This ten-week course enables progression on to the BA Early Childhood Studies at Northern College for candidates who have the SNNB or SVQ Level 3 qualification. The Accreditation Unit is based on the HNC Child Care and Education Unit. Candidates present a portfolio of evidence of relevant practical experience, study undertaken and knowledge gained in the workplace. The course takes the form of lectures, individual tutorials and self-study, after which time is given for completion of portfolios. Candidates should be working in early years care and education, and preferably will have done the Professional Development Award (PDA) in Child Care and Education. The unit is delivered in partnership with Northern College. Successful completion will assist progression on the second year of the BA Early Childhood Studies Degree at Northern College.
Contact Gwen Grandison, Dundee College, as above.
Advanced Diploma in Psychology, at the Institute of Education in London. This one-year full-time, two to four years part-time modular programme is designed to further professional and personal development. There are three specialist routes - education, child development and early years. Core modules aim to advance understanding of psychology in relation to education. Specialist modules allow for more focused study of the chosen specialist area. The course is open to qualified teachers and those working in related fields, such as daycare, social work or nursing, who normally have at least two years' relevant experience.
Contact the Registry, Institute of Education, 20 Bedford Way, London WC1H 0AL (020 7612 6100/6125, fax 020 7612 6097, e-mail fpd.enquiries@ioe.ac.uk,website www.ioe.ac.uk).
HND/BA (Hons) in Early Childhood Studies, at University College Worcester. The programme relates to the educare of children from birth to eight within the context of their family and culture. The college's approach is interdisciplinary so students will benefit from the expertise of people with a real understanding of child development as it is shaped by families, culture and health. That breadth of input is invaluable for people interested in careers in education and childcare. Students will also benefit from practical experience in a range of early years settings, providing them with the opportunity to develop their skills and apply their learning. Teamwork and the ability to monitor your own development are encouraged.
The HND comprises 16 modules - eight at Level One (Year 1) and eight at Level Two (Year 2) and can be studied full-time or part-time. Mature candidates with no formal qualifications, but relevant work experience may achieve entry by APEL (Accreditation of Prior Experience and Learning). Students with Merit/Distinctions at HND level or with an equivalent qualification relevant to Early Years, may apply for a third year of study (eight modules) leading to a degree in Early Childhood Studies. A wide choice of optional modules is available to match students' interests and professional goals.
Contact the Registry, Early Childhood Studies Administration, Bredon Room 89, University College Worcester, Henwick Grove, Worcester WR2 6AJ (01905 855 111, e-mail admissions@worc.ac.uk).
BA (Hons) Professional Studies in Childcare, at Birmingham College of Food, Tourism and Creative Studies. This three-year programme aims to provide students with a high level of academic knowledge and practical skills in the development, care and education of young children. Entry requirements are A/AS ten to 12 points, Advanced GNVQ Merit or National Diploma Merit.
Contact Birmingham College of Food, Tourism and Creative Studies, as above.
BA/BSc (Hons) Early Childhood Studies, at Canterbury Christ Church University College. This is a combined honours course and Early Childhood can be taken with one of 17 options, including Art, French, Information Technology and Sport Science. There is no specific entrance requirement at A-level, but experience of working with young children is an advantage. The course includes child development, special needs, the law and children, and working with young children.
Contact Canterbury Christ Church University College, North Holmes Road, Canterbury, Kent CT1 1QU (01227 767700, e-mail admissions@cant.ac.uk).
BA (Hons) Childhood and Arts in Society, at the University of Durham, Stockton Campus. This course is three years full-time, but a part-time route is also available. The entrance requirements are five GCSE passes at Grade C (including English and Mathematics), a minimum of 14 points at A-level or equivalent in BTec and GNVQ or other qualification, such as access for mature students. The degree course is made up of three components - childhood studies, literary representations of childhood, and the study of the arts in human experience.
Contact the Admissions Office, University of Durham, Stockton Campus, University Boulevard, Thornaby, Stockton-on Tees TS17 6BH (01642 335320, fax 01642 335041, e-mail stockton. admissions@durham.ac.uk).
BA (Hons) Childhood Studies, at Leeds Metropolitan University. The course is three years full-time. The entry requirements are being reviewed, but are normally A-levels or a BTec with an overall merit profile. The course includes the history of childhood, comparative cultural perspectives on childhood, play and creativity.
The university also offers a BA in Early Childhood with Qualified Teacher Status (QTS). Students wishing to acquire QTS can apply to transfer after two years from the BA (Hons) Childhood Studies on to the Early Childhood course and do a further two years. An alternative route into teaching is to complete three years of the BA (Hons) Childhood Studies and then do a postgraduate year in Early Years Education.
Contact Leeds Metropolitan University, Carnegie Hall, Beckett Park Campus, Leeds LS6 3QS (0113 283 2600).
BA (Hons) Childhood Studies, at Liverpool John Moores University. This is a three-year full-time multidisciplinary programme. Core themes include images and constructions of childhood, education studies, developmental issues, health studies, and law and social welfare. Entrance requirements are 14 points at A-level, BTec national diploma (overall merit or distinction), a GNVQ merit at level 3, Access to Higher Education or demonstrable experiential learning.
Contact the School of Health and Human Sciences, Liverpool John Moores University, 79 Tithebarn Street, Liverpool L2 2ER (0151 231 4298, fax 0151 258 1593, e-mail Health@livjm.ac.uk).
BA (Hons) Early Childhood Studies, at Manchester Metropolitan University, Didsbury. This is a four-year part-time course or a three-year full-time course. Applicants aged under 21 for the full-time course should have a minimum of five GCSEs at C or above including maths and English and a minimum of 160 points to include one C at six-unit level and a maximum of 60 points in Key Skills. Students with a BTec National Diploma and the CACHE Diploma in Child Care and Education will require a minimum of six merits.
Applicants with HND, HNC and ADCE qualifications are eligible to apply for entry with advanced credit. All applicants are expected to have experience in working with young children. The part-time course is designed for people currently working with young children. The course has three levels. Level 1 is the foundation level and covers a wide range of multi-professional issues such as healthcare, language acquisition, legal issues, child development and inequality. Level 2 looks at the child in context through a range of modules such as play and learning, the individual and social in childhood, organisations and service provision, young Europeans, SEN, and research methodology. Level 3 concentrates on professional aspects of early childhood such as anti-discrimination, child protection, working with parents, international perspectives, options in education, health and social work, and a dissertation based on an aspect of personal professional interest.
Contact the Professional Development Centre, Manchester Metropolitan University, Institute of Education, 799 Wilmslow Road, Didsbury, Manchester M20 2RR (0161 247 2011/2012).
BA (Hons) Childhood Studies and Professional Practice Studies, BA (Hons) Childhood Studies and Disability Studies, BA (Hons) Care and Education of the Very Young and Professional Practice Studies, and BA (Hons) Care and Education of the Very Young and Disability Studies, at the University of Northumbria. These are all three-year, full-time courses. The entry requirements are ten to 12 points at A-level or a relevant BTec or equivalent such as BTec National, the Advanced GNVQ or Access/HEFC, or HNC qualification or similar. The courses offer an analytical insight into childhood and child development, with a particular reference to individual learning and social context.
Contact Andrew Cox, Programme Administrator for Joint Honours, University of Northumbria at Newcastle, Coach Lane Campus, Newcastle upon Tyne NE7 7XA (0191 215 6669, fax 0191 215 6605, e-mail hs.admissions @unn.ac.uk).
BA (Hons) Professional Studies (Early Childhood Studies), at Stockport College of Further and Higher Education. Routes include four years full-time with HND awarded after the first two, three years full-time or up to five years part-time. Entry at Level 2 and Level 3 is possible via an accreditation route (HND, ADCE or equivalent study). Modules include language, literacy, family, child and society, creative arts, early years practice, professional development, and management in the early years. Mature students with relevant experience can apply.
Contact Stockport College of Further and Higher Education, Centre for Childhood Studies, Wellington Road South, Stockport SK1 3UQ (0161 958 3566, fax 0161 958 3554).
BA (Hons) Early Childhood Studies, at Stranmillis University College, Belfast. A three years full-time or four years part-time course. The first three years of the degree may be taken on a part-time basis at Omagh College of Further and Higher Education. Entry requirements are four passes at GCSE, including English Language, mathematics and science at Grade C or above, and three passes at A-level, AVCE or equivalent qualification.
Applicants over 21 years of age and who do not possess these formal qualifications may be considered for admission on the basis of at least two years full-time (or equivalent part-time) experience of working with young children, together with evidence of a sound basic education, including evidence of relevant courses undertaken to extend professional knowledge, such as the CACHE Diploma in Child Care and Education.
The course is organised on a modular basis with a work experience placement forming the core. Students will undertake 18 modules on topics such as The child and the context of educare, Young children learning and The professional context.
Supporting modules will provide opportunities for the development of the body of knowledge and competences necessary for qualified professionals to undertake the demanding and complex roles involved in supporting, caring for and educating young children.
Students are expected to have, or be able to obtain, access to professional placements as an integral part of the degree.
Contact the Academic Registry, Stranmillis University College, Belfast BT9 5DY (028 9038 1271, fax 028 9066 4423, e-mail registry @stran-ni.ac.uk).
BA (Hons) Early Childhood Studies, at Suffolk College. Three years full-time or four-and-a-half to nine years part-time. This is a fully modular programme which enables students to study the world of early childhood at degree level. The programme adopts a multidisciplinary approach to the education of young children from birth to eight years.
The course offers 29 modules - full-time students do 18 modules for the degree. A few are mandatory, including developmental psychology, observation and assessment, child protection and research. There is a wide range of optional modules from which to choose - students construct their programmes of study to match their career intentions or professional and personal interests.
It is possible to combine Early Childhood Studies with other subjects from the cross-college modular degree programme, such as art and design, applied biological sciences, environmental studies, literary studies, media studies and information technology.
Entry requirements are two A-levels at Grade D or equivalent, such as BTec National Diploma with merit profile or CACHE Diploma Child Care and Education with distinction and supported by four GCSEs at grade C or above. Applications are welcome from mature candidates who have relevant experience and can demonstrate the ability to study at degree level.
From last September a Dip HE became available. This two-year course is full-time or part-time. Entry requirements are one A-level or equivalent, for example, BTec ND/Adv, GNVQ in relevant subject areas at pass level/CACHE Diploma in Child Care and Education, merit profile, and three GCSEs at grade C or above, including English. Applications are welcome from mature candidates who have relevant experience.
Suffolk College, in association with Suffolk County Council Education Department, also has a PGCE Early Years Primary SATT that graduates can apply to. Students have progressed to Early Years PGCE, Dip Social Work, MA programmes and those with appropriate experience to employment as lecturers, tutors, advisers, managers and under-fives workers.
Contact Information Centre, Suffolk College, Rope Walk, Ipswich IP4 1LT (01473 296606, fax 01473 230054, e-mail info@ suffolk.ac.uk, website www.suffolk.ac.uk).
BA (Hons) Early Childhood Studies and BA (Hons) Early Childhood and Curriculum Studies, at Sunderland University.
Early Childhood Studies degree students will study three choice modules in a particular area - sociology, childcare in the community or national curriculum subjects. Should students study national curriculum subjects their degree title will be Early Childhood and Curriculum Studies; if not it will be Early Childhood Studies. Students study 15 core modules. They observe children in a variety of settings and make a practical study of a local community.
Students will acquire the core skills required to work in the area of early childhood. In Year 3, a project is included which enables them to make a personal study of an aspect of childhood. This degree will help students gain employment in social services, children's charities, the education and care of children and teaching.
Those wishing to work in social services may need a social work qualification in addition to their degree. Students who wish to be a teacher must take a PGCE after getting their degree.
Contact Jane Arthurs, Sunderland University, Hammerton Hall, Gray Road, Sunderland SR2 8JB (0191 515 2395/2457, fax 0191 515 2629, e-mail jane.arthurs@ sunderland.ac.uk).
BA/BSc Early Childhood Studies, at University of Surrey Roehampton. This three-year full-time or four-to seven-year part-time degree programme offers an unrivalled opportunity for students to become qualified early childhood specialists through either full-or part-time patterns of study. It augments the extensive range of successful early childhood programmes which have long been a feature of work at Roehampton. Developed to meet the need for well-qualified early years specialists in the light of changing national requirements, it focuses on the strands of knowledge which underlie all professional work with young children, and considers the diversity of services provided for families with young children as well as the national, legal, historical and philosophical framework within which these services operate.
The course also places a high focus on the development and exercise of research skills. Experience in the workplace is an important element of the programme, enabling students to develop the skill of analysis and interpretation of practice.
Contact the Enquiries Office, University of Surrey Roehampton, Whitelands College, West Hill, London SW15 3SN (020 8392 3232, e-mail enquiries@ roehampton.ac.uk).
BSc (Hons) Early Childhood Studies, at the University of Bristol. This is a three-year, full-time, modular course. Although preference is given to students with three A-levels, mature students with childcare qualifications, or those who have completed an Access course, can apply.
Core units include psychology, social policy, child health, family support and early childhood provision.
Contact Carol Keen, School for Policy Studies, University of Bristol, 8 Priory Road, Bristol BS8 1TZ (0117 954 6743, fax 0117 954 6756).
MA/MSc in Child Development, at the Institute of Education in London. This one year full-time or two years part-time course studies children and their development from conception to adolescence. It aims to increase understanding of children and is suited to those who wish to go on to work in research or to prepare themselves for training in a profession concerned with children.
The course is open to graduates in psychology or in education with a strong child development or psychology component.
Contact the Registry, Institute of Education, as above.
MA in Education (Early Years), at the Institute of Education in London. This one year full-time or two to four years part-time modular programme provides the opportunity to study challenging issues relevant to early years educators. It aims to examine teaching and learning, develop skills and understanding of management issues and lay the foundations for conducting research.
The course is open to graduates with a relevant first degree plus experience in pre-school education.
Contact the Registry, Institute of Education, as above.
MA/MSc in Child Development with Early Childhood Education, at the Institute of Education in London. This one-year full-time or two years part-time course studies developmental psychology and education, focusing on contemporary understanding of young children's learning, play, cognition, language and socio-emotional development.
Applicants must have a teaching qualification or two years' relevant experience plus a first degree or equivalent in psychology, or in education with a strong child development or psychology component.
Contact the Registry, Institute of Education, as above.
MA in Early Childhood Education with Care, at the Pen Green Research, Development and Training Base, validated by the University of North London. This two-year part-time course for early childhood workers who have appropriate qualifications and experience from a range of settings, including the public sector, and the voluntary and private sectors.
The course has eight modules, six of which are taught - Curriculum (double), Action research, Pedagogy, Early years management, and Working with parents.
The other two modules constitute a dissertation based upon practitioner action research being undertaken throughout the period of study. This reflects the integrated nature of the course.
The course team is Professor Tina Bruce, Dr Colin Fletcher,Dr Margy Whalley, Patrick Whitaker, Colette Tait and Fiona Taylor.
Contact the Pen Green Research, Development and Training Base, Pen Green Centre for Under Fives and Their Families, Pen Green Lane, Corby, Northants NN17 1BJ (01536 443435, fax 01536 264191).
MA/Graduate Diploma in Early Childhood Studies, at the University of Surrey Roehampton. A one-year full-time or up to four years part-time course. This successful programme has recently been revalidated to reflect the extensive developments in the field today. It is devoted to the study of young children and their development.
Contact the Enquiries Office, University of Surrey Roehampton, as above.
MA in Early Childhood Education, at the University of Sheffield. Study is at a distance over two years, with four modules, early childhood education, history and policy, development, learning and curriculum, contemporary issues in early childhood education, research methods in early childhood education, and a dissertation.
The course has been specifically created to focus on teaching, learning and research in early childhood education. It aims to help students to develop a clearer understanding of early childhood education and their role in children's learning from birth to the age of eight.
Students attend two residential weekend schools each year and receive ongoing tutorial support. They also pursue an individual topic for the supervised dissertation.
Applicants will normally have a good first degree and three years experience in early childhood education. The course begins in September, but places for this course are limited.
Contact Rachel Willans, Course Secretary, School of Education, The Education Building, The University of Sheffield, 388 Glossop Road, Sheffield S10 2JA (0114 222 8183, fax 0114 278 8318, e-mail r.willans@ sheffield. ac.uk).
Certificate in Advanced Professional Studies/ Postgraduate diploma/MEd, at the University of Exeter. This is a modular course for qualified teachers or those with equivalent professional qualifications and with not less than three years' relevant experience.
Modules include home and school, language, literacy and learning in the early years, and the curriculum for the under-fives.
Each module is about 40 hours' work and an assignment completed during one term. Two modules gain a Certificate for Advanced Professional Study (PG Cert), and five modules plus a dissertation are needed for the BPhil/MEd.
Contact Graduate Studies Office, University of Exeter, School of Education, Heavitree Road, Exeter EX1 2LU (01392 264838, fax 01392 264810, e-mail ed-cpd@ ex.ac.uk).
Certificate in Early Childhood Education, at University of Surrey Roehampton. A one-year part-time course primarily for teachers working with children aged three to five.
Students explore features of high-quality early years provision, examine the development of children as learners and consider the implications of recent research.
Contact the Enquiries Office, University of Surrey Roehampton, as above.
A Distance Learning Route to an Early Years Degree for Early Childhood Practitioners, at the Riverside Early Years Training Centre. This modular course leads to a BPhil and includes a European visit.
Modules include Young children learning, A European perspective on early childhood, Literacy and numeracy, and Educational research.
Contact the Riverside Early Years Training Centre, Minton Lane, North Shields, Tyne and Wear NE29 6DQ (0191 200 5200, fax 0191 200 5300).
Graduate and Postgraduate Certificates in the Care and Development of Children and Young People, at Caldecott College, Ashford, Kent, and at other venues throughout the UK. These courses are one or two years part-time (one day a week) for social workers and others working in therapeutic settings with children and young people. The graduate course is suitable for residential social workers, foster carers and special needs teachers.
These courses are suitable for qualified and unqualified social workers with at least two years' relevant experience.
Alternatively, there is a two-term, part-time programme for people with less experience of working in the early years setting.
All courses introduce students to therapeutic themes and appropriate forms of therapeutic practice in work with children, young people and their families.
There is also an NVQ Level 3 course for people who have less experience.
Contact Andrew Collie, Lisa Smith or Christian Stringer for further information and application form, at Caldecott College, Smeeth, Ashford, Kent TN25 6SP (01303 814232, fax 01303 814621, e-mail info@caldecottcollege.org,web site www.caldecott college.org).
Postgraduate courses in Early Education at the University of Edinburgh. There are three part-time postgraduate courses - the MEd, which takes 72 months, the Diploma, which takes 48 months, and the Postgraduate certificate, which takes 36 months.
The early education pathway into the Masters programme emphasises current issues from research and policy and the way these influence provision and the curriculum, understanding child development, early learners and learning, the interactions between home, under-fives settings, school and community, and the dimensions of change.
Required modules are Professional issues and professional development in early education, Early learners and learning, Parent and professionals, child and adolescent development, and Professional development review.
Options may be taken from the broad range of the Modular Masters Scheme, for example Early literacy or an independent study.
The entry requirements are a degree or equivalent.
Contact the Faculty of Education Postgraduate Office, The University of Edinburgh, Charteris Land, Holyrood Road, Edinburgh EH8 8AQ (0131 651 6139, e-mail education. faculty@ed.ac.uk).For specific programme details, telephone 0131 651 6597, e-mail helen.fraser@ed.ac.uk.
