My prospectuses and information show me that such degree courses in childhood contain a wide variety of in-depth modules in child development, child health, learning, child psychology, law, care and education, and a wide range of assessment methods, including practical work and research.
It is all very well to argue that practical experience is more important than academic learning when working with children. But isn't sound theoretical knowledge the basis for successful and confident practice?
I believe that no one can be over-qualified when working with children, as there is so very much to learn. I am sure that studying to such a high level would be impossible without practical experience anyway.
So please do not criticise those of us who wish to study children at degree level. It is not because we want to be 'better than just a nursery nurse', it is because we want to gain as detailed and sound a knowledge of child development as we can, and believe that, coupled with our practical experiences, we will be able to qualify as valuable members of the childcare workforce.
Isn't that what we are all aiming for?
Emma Thorley, London
