Higher power

National

* Advanced Diploma in Child Care and Education (ADCE), at many colleges throughout the country. This higher-level diploma takes one year full-time or up to five years part-time, and is for early years workers with several years' experience, NVQ Level 3 or the CACHE Diploma in Child Care and Education. 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, e-mail nfo@cache.org.uk,website www.cache.org.uk).

England

* BA (Hons) Professional Studies in Childhood, at Birmingham College of Food, Tourism and Creative Studies. This three-year course aims to provide students with a high level of academic knowledge and practical skills in the development, care and education of young children. It also concentrates on helping them develop increasingly-important management skills. Topics covered in the first year are Aspects of social policy and legislation, Early years curriculum, Organisation structures and processes, Curriculum language, Working with children and their families, Child development, and Early years information technology. Topics in the second year include Social science and early years, Interpersonal and communication skills, The child as learner, Curriculum science and Curriculum mathematics. The third year includes Working in the community with children, and a dissertation (for Honours) on Contemporary issues in childcare. In addition, students will select any two of the following four options - International perspectives on childhood, The child with special needs, Using technology with children, or Managing people and organisations. Entry requirements are UCAS Tariff - a minimum of 180 points, at least 140 of which must come from six-unit or 12-unit awards, the remainder from any awards which carry Tarriff points; BTec National Diploma; Merit profile.

Contact Birmingham College of Food, Tourism and Creative Studies, Summer Row, Birmingham B3 1JB (0121 604 1000, website www.bcftcs.ac.uk).

* Graduate Diploma and Postgraduate Certificate in the Care and Development of Children and Young People, at Caldecott College, Ashford, Kent and at other venues throughout the UK. This course is undertaken as a one- or two-year part-time programme, and is suitable for staff engaged in medium- or long-term work with children and families in any social work or therapeutic setting. Alternatively, it provides the knowledge element and portfolio-building workshops for the NVQ Level 3 or 4 and assessor training. Caldecott College also has a large range of short courses linked to NVQ.

Contact Andrew Collie, vice-principal, Caldecott College, The Stable Courtyard, Mersham le Hatch, Ashford, Kent TN25 5NH (01233 501916, e-mail info@ caldecottcollege.org, website ww.caldecottcollege.org).

* BSc (Hons) Early Childhood Studies, at the University of Bristol. This is a three-year full-time modular course. Preference is given to students with three A-levels, but mature students with childcare qualifications, or those who have completed an Access course, can apply. The 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, e-mail admissions@bristol.ac.uk,website www.bris.ac.uk).

* BA/BSc (Hons) Early Childhood Studies, at Canterbury Christ Church University College. This is a full- or part-time combined or joint Honours degree course, and Early Childhood Studies can be taken with one of 17 options, including Art, French, Psychology and Health studies.

To receive a joint Honours degree, the two subjects are studied equally throughout the first year of the programme.

In the second and third years, students may decide to remain joint or they select can three courses from one subject (major) and one course from the second subject (minor). Applicants should have two A-levels (or equivalent), but there are no subject-specific entrance requirements. Experience of working with young children and knowledge of some early years issues are advantageous and all students will be interviewed prior to being offered a place. Topics covered include Growth and development; Meeting the needs of all children; Law, the child and the family; Research in early childhood; and Working with young children and families. Successful students may work in early years provision as supervisors, assistants, play leaders, managers and administrators, or through continuation of their studies, gain postgraduate qualifications in areas including social work, teaching, counselling, speech and language therapy, and play therapy.

Contact Kate Wall, Canterbury Christ Church University College, North Holmes Road, Canterbury, Kent CT1 1QU (01227 767700 ext 2143, e-mail kjw8@cant.ac.uk,website www.cant.ac.uk).

* BA Early Childhood Studies, at City College Coventry. This is a four-year full-time degree course offered on a 2+2 basis with Warwick University. The first two years are taught at Tile Hill College and the final two years at the University of Warwick. The course is for mature students over 21 who have worked with children in early years settings and allows them to obtain a degree in their vocational setting. Core modules are Early childhood studies (First principles) and Education and learning, while optional modules are Research methods, Sociology, Psychology, and Health and Social welfare. Each student completes two core modules and two optional modules per year. Students can enter a programme of study for a Postgraduate Certificate of Education to enable them to teach in early years. Other possible routes on graduation include entry to Masters or other degrees at higher levels.

Contact Andrew Holdcroft, City College Coventry, Tile Hill Centre, Tile Hill, Coventry CV4 9SU (0800 616202, e-mail a.holdcroft@staff.

covcollege.ac.uk, website www.covcollege.ac.uk).

* MA in Early Childhood Education with Care, at the Pen Green Research, Development and Training Base. This two-year part-time course is for early childhood workers. It has eight modules, six of which are taught - Curriculum (double), Action research, Pedagogy, Early years management and Working with parents. The other two modules are a dissertation based on practitioner action, and research undertaken throughout the period of study.

Contact the Pen Green Centre for Under Fives and their Families, Pen Green Lane, Corby, Northants NN17 1BJ (01536 443435, e-mail kmarshall@ northamptonshire.gov.uk, website www.northamptonshire.gov.uk).

* BA (Ed) Primary Teaching: General, at the University of Durham, Queen's Campus, Stockton. This Honours degree course carries qualified teacher status (QTS). Applicants should have achieved or anticipate achieving at least one B and two Cs at A-level or equivalent. They must also have GCSE Maths and English at C or above, or equivalent. Students with non-traditional qualifications should discuss these with the course leader before applying.

Contact the Student Recruitment Office, University of Durham, Queen's Campus, University Boulevard, Thornaby, Stockton-on Tees TS17 6BH (0191 334 0048, e-mail stockton.admissions@ durham.ac.uk, website www.durham.ac.uk).

* BSc (Ed) Primary Teaching: ICT, at the University of Durham, Queen's Campus, Stockton. This Honours degree course carries qualified teacher status (QTS) and is for students who wish to become curriculum leaders in ICT. Entrance requirements as above.

Contact the University of Durham, as above.

* BA in Childhood and Youth Studies, at the University of Exeter's School of Education and Lifelong Learning. This new degree beginning in October offers students the opportunity to focus on how children and young people can be conceptualised and treated from historical, social, cultural, psychological and developmental perspectives. It will be relevant to those wishing to gain specialist in-depth knowledge about children and young people. The programme aims to provide a rigorous academic grounding in childhood and youth studies, provide progression routes into a wide range of related career options and prepare students for the rapidly changing contexts of policy and practice in education, social policy, health and welfare. The degree will combine innovative teaching techniques and learning approaches, including lectures, seminars, directed studies of academic texts, analysing novels and films, and practical placements in different settings, some of which may be carried out abroad. The degree will enable students to progress along different career pathways, including working with children, young people and their families, as well as general employment opportunities in arts and leisure, museums and environmental centres.

Contact the Graduate Studies Office, University of Exeter School of Education, Heavitree Road, Exeter EX1 2LU (01392 264815, e-mail ed-ipso@ex.ac.uk,website www.ex.ac.uk).

* MEd Programme in Primary and Early Years Education, at the University of Exeter's School of Education and Lifelong Learning. This part-time programme consists of freestanding modules that can be combined toward an award or degree. The modules encompass a range of age-phase and subject specialisms, including the Foundation stage curriculum, Creative arts, Citizenship education, Mathematics, Science, Language and Literacy, and History. Each module consists of 40 hours' work and an assignment undertaken in one term.

Contact the Graduate Studies Office, University of Exeter School of Education$, Heavitree Road, Exeter EX1 2LU (01392 264838, e-mail ed-cpd@exeter.ac.uk,website www.ex.ac.uk/sell).

* BA (Hons) Childhood Studies, at Leeds Metropolitan University. This is a three-year full-time course. Entry requirements are Advanced GNVQ: Merit, Edexcel National Diploma: Merit average from final year units, with a similar profile required in the first year, International Baccalaureate Diploma: 26 points. Applicants must provide evidence of interest in and involvement with children. Childhood and children's lives are viewed from social, psychological, cultural, and historical perspectives, and there are opportunities to relate academic study to children through visits to different settings. Policies and practice affecting children and their families are investigated, and in the final year, modules look to the future of children and childhood in a changing world. In the final year, a major project is undertaken in an area of childhood studies of particular interest to the individual student. Participants may go on to further professional training, for example CQSW or PGCE. Alternatively, students may apply for the University's two-year route to QTS on successful completion of levels 1 and 2 of this course.

Contact Julie Callaghan, Leeds Metropolitan University, Carnegie Hall, Beckett Park Campus, Leeds LS6 3QS (0113 283 7578, e-mail j.callaghan@lmu.ac.uk,website www.lmu.ac.uk).

* BA (Hons) Early Childhood Education, at Leeds Metropolitan University.

This two-year or four-year full-time course is designed to train specialist teachers to work with children aged three to eight (Foundation Stage and Key Stage 1). Entry qualifications are GCSEs (or equivalent) with a minimum grade C in English language, mathematics and a science, and in a wide range of National Curriculum subjects, along with two years' previous full-time higher education on a course involving a significant amount of study of childhood, such as the DipHE Playwork. As well as leading to QTS, this course requires students to pass the Teacher Training Agency's Skills Tests. Study of the core subjects of English, Mathematics and Science occurs throughout the course, which also provides the opportunity to study all the foundation subjects of the National Curriculum and Religious Education in the context of the curriculum, for children in the three to eight age range. Professional studies are undertaken in all years, and information technology is a key aspect throughout. On the four-year route, specialist subject modules are undertaken that cover practical and theoretical aspects of early childhood education. Trainee teachers are attached to schools in each year of the course, and supported extensively by trained mentors. In the final year, increased emphasis is placed on assessment of teaching performance. This enables trainees to develop their knowledge of the National Curriculum and the Early Learning Goals. Work in schools is further supported throughout the course by directed activities that help students develop their understanding of children, how they learn and how they are taught. Both routes involve a nursery placement. Career prospects for successful graduates with a specialism in early childhood education are likely to be very good, since recent Government initiatives have emphasised the need for more teachers of this age phase. The degree is also a suitable qualification for entry to a number of professions other than teaching.

Contact Liz Hicks, Leeds Metropolitan University, as above (e-mail E.Hicks@lmu.ac.uk).

* Foundation Degree (FdA) Early Years, at Leeds Metropolitan University.

This new four-year part-time course is focused around work-based learning within the context of education and care. Applicants must have a combination of academic qualifications, experience and motivation. In practice, those under the age of 21 should normally have at least one A level, an Advanced GNVQ, NVQ or other Level 3 vocational qualification or an Advanced Modern Apprenticeship, which includes Level 3 qualifications.

Students over 21 are not always expected to have formal qualifications, but all entrants need GCSE grade C, or equivalent, in English. This course is designed to build academic understanding, developing knowledge of child development and educational theory and an in-depth understanding of curricula, the value of learning experiences and play, anti-discriminatory practice, children's rights, social policy, early years service provision, family support and child protection, and the role of the early years practitioner as part of a multi-professional team. This qualification will lead to employment in the early years services, registration and inspection, management in early years settings, and development work in early years childcare, or progression on to a BA (Hons) degree.

Contact Cathy Davison, Leeds Metropolitan University, as above. (01423 878426, e-mail k.davison@lmu.ac.uk).

* DipHE/BA (Hons) Playwork, at Leeds Metropolitan University. This is a three-year full-time or five-year part-time course. The DipHE is recognised as a suitable level of qualification for playwork practitioners. Students normally enrol for the full programme of study leading to the degree, but individuals may leave with a DipHE after successful completion of Level 2.

Entry requirements are Advanced GNVQ: Pass, Edexcel National Diploma: Pass, International Baccalaureate: 24 points. Applicants should have at least three to four months of experience of working with children in a playwork environment. Direct entry to Level 3 is available to those who already hold a professional qualification in playwork or a related field. The course locates play as the fundamental process for understanding a child's development. Playworkers need to demonstrate a range of skills and competencies, including an ability to facilitate, enable, mediate, motivate, empathise and manage. The course seeks to create an environment for learning which enables a student-centred, experiential and playful approach, reflecting the course team's belief about the nature of play and playwork. The course is continuously assessed. All students take modules in Play and playwork, Personal and professional development, and Childhood and society. An essential focus of the course is how play shapes the child's experiences and childhood. Electives are also offered in Children and the social agenda, Playing to be a person, Playing creatively, Sociology of childhood, Playing to change, and Play as exploration. Diplomates and graduates may pursue careers within playwork as play development workers, play officers, play trainers, specialist play workers, adventure playground workers, hospital playworkers and play therapists, or as members of multidisciplinary teams, such as in the leisure industry.

Contact Lorraine Eustace, Leeds Metropolitan University, as above. (0113 283 5976, e-mail l.eustace@lmu.ac.uk).

* MA in Assessment and Development of Early Literacy, at the Institute of Education in London. This one-year full-time and one-year part- time course trains students to organise, implement and evaluate an early intervention programme (Reading Recovery) to reduce the incidence of literacy problems in primary schools. Students who take this course are supported by the education authorities to train as Reading Recovery tutors.

Contact the Registry, Institute of Education, 20 Bedford Way, London WC1H 0AL (020 7612 6100, e-mail fpd.enquiries@ioe. ac.uk, website www.ioe.ac.uk).

* Advanced Diploma in Special and Inclusive Education, at the Institute of Education in London. This one-year full-time or two- to four-year part-time course is for teachers or other professionals, including suitably qualified support staff, wishing to develop their skills and expertise in working with children experiencing special educational needs. It will give students the opportunity to engage in oral and written discussion about recent debates in the field of inclusion and SEN, apply theoretical knowledge to inform practice in the field of inclusion and SEN, to acquire knowledge, understanding and skills to develop your career in the area of inclusion and SEN. Entry requirements are an ability to demonstrate an interest in the field of inclusion and SEN,as well as qualifications beyond A-level and experience of working in a school setting.

Contact the School of Psychology and Human Development, Institute of Education, University of London, 25 Woburn Square, London WC1H 0AA (020 7612 6271, e-mail school.phd@ioe.ac.uk,website www.ioe.ac.uk).

* MA/MSc in Child Development with Early Childhood Education, at the Institute of Education in London. This one-year full-time or two-year part-time course studies developmental psychology and education. It focuses on young children's learning, play, cognition, language and socio-emotional development. There is also an emphasis on family processes, on school-family relationships, and on professional issues, such as the early years curriculum, assessment, and the organisation and management of nurseries, classes and schools.

Contact Sabrina Antao, Course administrator, Institute of Education, as above (020 7612 6207, e-mail s.antao@ioe.ac.uk).

* MA in Education (Early Years), at the Institute of Education in London.

Entry requirements to this one-year full-time or two- to four-year part-time course are a good Honours degree in a relevant subject or equivalent, plus two years relevant experience. It examines teaching and learning in the early years, provides managerial and professional development informed by best practice in leadership in early years education, and develops a sound understanding of methodology and research methods. Required modules are Early childhood education, Management and contemporary issues in early years education, Research in primary education, and a dissertation on early years education.

Contact Jane Moffat, Institute of Education, as above (020 7612 6207, e-mail j.moffat@ioe.ac.uk).

* MA in Assessment and Development of Early Literacy, at the Institute of Education in London. This one-year full-time plus one-year part-time course gives high-level professional training in organising, implementing and evaluating the Reading Recovery early intervention programme to reduce the incidence of literacy problems in primary schools. It is normally open only to applicants with a good first degree and two years' relevant experience, who gain secondment from their local education authority.

Contact Angela Hobsbaum, Institute of Education, as above (020 7612 6206, e-mail a.hobsbaum@ioe.ac.uk).

* Foundation Degree (FdA) in Childhood Studies, at Nottingham Trent University. This new part-time Foundation Degree starts in September. It is designed to support, develop and extend the academic learning of practitioners working in a support role in education, childcare and community settings, including those employed as teaching and learning assistants, education liaison officers and support workers. It aims to meet the needs of those who want to combine employment and learning, and explore a new or enhanced career path. Participants will study Early childhood; Physical development and the use of recreational facilities; The development of communication; Cognitive development; The archaeology and history of childhood; Children and the environment; Social justice; and Healthy living. In addition, students will consider their professional development and undertake projects within their working environment to form the basis of worked-based learning modules. This degree is part of a Childhood Studies Scheme designed to enable successful students to undertake a bridging module to progress to the BA (Hons) or BA(Ordinary) degree in Childhood Studies. During the latter period of study, students will have the opportunity to discuss further qualifications and possible professions.

Contact the Admissions Office, Nottingham Trent University, Faculty of Education, Ada Byron King Building, Clifton Lane, Nottingham NG11 8NS (0115 848 6711, e-mail leigh.buchanan@ ntu.ac.uk, website www.education.ntu.ac.uk).

* BA Single Honours Early Childhood Studies, BA/BSc Early Childhood Studies, at University of Surrey Roehampton. This three-year full-time or four- to seven-year part-time degree single and combined Honours degree has been developed to meet the need for well-qualified early years specialists who wish to work with young children and their families. It has a multidisciplinary approach to the study of children from birth to six. The first year focuses on young children and the cultural influences on their lives and development, as well as issues in early childhood, SEN and inclusion. Subsequent years cover the significance of play, imagination and creativity in children's development. Courses consider a variety of curriculum models and examine the impact of early childhood pioneers on perspectives and practice. Optional modules include Social work, Child protection, Health, Environments and Children from diverse communities, including refugees and traveller children.

Contact the Enquiries Office, University of Surrey Roehampton, Whitelands College, West Hill, London SW15 3SN (020 8392 3232, e-mail enquiries@ roehampton.ac.uk, website www.roehampton.ac.uk).

* BA/BSc Childhood and the Arts, at University of Surrey Roehampton. This is a three-year full-time or four- to seven-year part-time combined Honours degree, so it is necessary to build up a complete degree by taking modules from other programmes. At Foundation level, students take three modules to give them a strong foundation in the history of childhood, the representation of childhood in many art forms and periods, and the importance of childhood in theories of artistic creativity and production.

Students then choose from modules including illustrating children's books, specialist courses on children's film and television, toys and games, history, the role of dance and music in youth culture, and children's multimedia. In the final year, there is an opportunity to write a dissertation or to develop a practical arts project.

Contact the University of Surrey Roehampton, as above.

* BA/BSc Childhood and Society, at University of Surrey Roehampton. This is a three-year full-time or four- to seven-year part-time combined Honours degree. First-year courses include Children in contemporary British society, The history of childhood, Studying children and childhood, and Introduction to child development. The second and third years build on the multidisciplinary approach established in the Foundation year. Graduates will be equipped for either further professional training or a career in education, social administration, health and welfare services or children's rights organisations.

Contact the University of Surrey Roehampton, as above.

* BA/BSc Children's Literature and Childhood, at University of Surrey Roehampton. This course has a similar modular format to the Childhood and the Arts degree. At Foundation level, students cover the history of childhood, writing about childhood and literature for children. As they progress, participants choose from modules including How children are illustrated, Visions of the future for children, Shakespeare for children, The lives of vulnerable children, and Contemporary childhoods as they are shown in literature. Career options include designing equipment, toys, legislation or buildings for children, looking after children's welfare and medical needs, or vocations that involve the understanding of children's psychological needs and their tastes.

Contact the University of Surrey Roehampton, as above.

* MA/Postgraduate Diploma in Early Childhood Studies, at the University of Surrey Roehampton. This course is devoted to the study of young children, their development, their lives, their families and the contexts in which they are growing up. The flexible programme structure enables students to follow various pathways leading to an Early Childhood Studies award. There is much opportunity for cross-fertilisation of ideas, and to make contact with leading professionals within this field. The area of study covers children from birth to six. It enhances both professional skills and career prospects, and students may progress to become heads of centres, early years inspectors and advisers, nursery co-ordinators.Contact the University of Surrey Roehampton, as above.

* Certificate in Early Childhood Education, at University of Surrey Roehampton. This one-year part-time course is undertaken by teachers and nursery practitioners who wish to update their qualifications. It is offered in conjunction with local authorities over one academic year, with regular twilight sessions in the LEA's professional centre and nine full days at the University. Upon completion, students obtain either a Certificate of Professional Practice or Certificate of Professional Development, depending on prior academic achievement. Both are worth 30 credits at HE1 and HE3 level respectively. Successful students can apply go on to complete a further 30 credits of study to become eligible for the Graduate Certificate (worth 60 credits at HE3). Individuals who wish to follow a course of study without being part of an LEA certificate programme can be considered for part-time study on the BA Early Childhood Studies degree as students following an Individual Study. They can either apply to follow the course and complete relevant assessments to obtain 10 or 20 credits, or to undertake it as an affiliate student, which entails no submission of assignments. A certificate of attendance can be offered for the latter, but no credits are obtained.

Contact the School of Education Studies, University of Surrey Roehampton, as above.

* Postgraduate Diploma/MA in Infant Mental Health, at the Tavistock Clinic in London. This is a part-time two-year course for professionals working with infants, pre-school age children and their families in health, social services and education. It offers an experiential and theoretical approach to understanding children's emotional, social and cognitive development. It is open to non-graduates with professional qualifications and experience in related fields.

Contact Sara Riley, The Tavistock Clinic, 120 Belsize Lane, London NW3 5BA (020 7447 3717, e-mail sriley@tavi-port.nhs.uk,website www.tavi-port.org).

* BA (Hons) Early Childhood Studies, at Manchester Metropolitan University, Didsbury. This is a three- or four-year full-time or part-time course. The full-time route will be more appropriate for people at the beginning of their career, who wish to pursue a degree in the field of early years work. The part-time option will suit professionals working in the field without a degree-level qualification. The degree programme examines key issues concerning the nature of childhood, of children and the provision that is made for them. The course will involve examining, discussing and analysing the socio-cultural and international context of childhood and the effectiveness and appropriateness of policy and practice in meeting the needs of children and their families. It is underpinned by sociology, social policy, psychology, education, health and a children's rights perspective. It focuses on the perceived needs, capacities, rights and entitlements of children, and how these can be promoted and enhanced. Key themes include Constructions of childhood, Multi-professional perspectives and practice, Child development, The significance of family, Children's health issues, The early childhood curriculum and the importance of play, SEN, and Children's rights and anti-discriminatory practice.

Contact Rachel Holmes, The Manchester Metropolitan University Institute of Education, 799 Wilmslow Road, Didsbury, Manchester M20 2RR (0161 247 2059, e-mail r.holmes@mmu.ac.uk,website www.mmu.ac.uk).

* ADE/BPhil in Early Childhood Studies, at the University of Newcastle.

This professional qualification aims to develop the professional knowledge, understanding and skills of early years practitioners. Students come from a variety of early years professional backgrounds, and possess a significant amount of practical experience. The course is designed to provide opportunities for students to share their knowledge and expertise with one another. On completion, course practitioners will be able to discuss and critically evaluate recent research into how young children develop and learn, have an increased understanding of the roles of the early years practitioner and the family in the child's learning; apply their theoretical knowledge to practice; collect and analyse data from a setting with which they are familiar; undertake small-scale research; and compare and contrast cultural influences on early childhood practice and provision.

Students can study for the degree in face-to-face or distance learning modes. Modules for distance learning students are preceded by short periods of residential study.

Contact the University of Newcastle, School of Education, Communication and Language Sciences, St Thomas' Street, Newcastle upon Tyne NE1 7RU (0191 222 6568, e-mail p.h.hedworth@ncl.ac.uk,website www.ncl.ac.uk).

* BA (Hons) in Childhood Studies; Care Education - Early Years; Disability Studies; Professional Practice Studies; Advice, Guidance and Counselling; or Health Studies at the University of Northumbria. These are three-year full-time courses. The degree consists of any two of the above subjects, combined in one of 15 ways. Additionally, individual units may be studied on a part-time basis. The entry requirements are 200 UCAS tariff points, BTec National Diploma, Access/HEFCs or similar. The courses offer an analytical insight into childhood and child development.

Contact Caroline McLean, School of Health Community and Education Studies, Northumbria University, E206, Coach Lane Campus, Newcastle upon Tyne NE7 7XA (0191 215 6615, e-mail hs.admissions@unn.ac.uk,website www.northumbria.ac.uk).

* MA in Early Childhood Education, at the University of Sheffield. Study is at a distance over two years. Modules include 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 aims to help students to develop a clearer understanding of early childhood education and their role in children's learning from birth to eight. Students will attend five residential weekend schools over two years, and receive ongoing tutorial support. Students will also complete a dissertation. Applicants will normally have a good first degree and three years' experience in early childhood education.

Contact Rachel Watson, School of Education, The Education Building, University of Sheffield, 388 Glossop Road, Sheffield S10 2JA (0114 222 8183, e-mail r.watson@ sheffield.ac.uk, website www.sheffield.ac.uk).

* BA (Hons) Early Childhood Studies, at Stockport College of Further and Higher Education. This is a three-year full-time, four-year full-time (HND plus levels 2 and 3) or six-year part-time degree. The topics covered include Curriculum issues, Professional development, Work with children and families, Creative art, Language and literacy, Research methods, and a dissertation. For the full-time options, entry is via UCAS and for part-time, via the internal college applications. Entry requirements are the HND for the four-year courses and 80 'A' level points for the three-year option. Student progression from the degree is usually into teacher training, Masters degree or management or advisory positions in a variety of settings. The degree is validated by Liverpool John Moores University.

Contact Stockport College of Further and Higher Education, Centre for Childhood Studies, Wellington Road South, Stockport SK1 3UQ (0161 958 3566, website www.stockport.ac.uk).

* Foundation Degree (Sector endorsed) for senior practitioners in early years, at Stockport College of Further and Higher Education. This two-year Foundation degree is for experienced practitioners with a Level 3 childcare or education qualification. It is a practical degree that uses the workplace as teaching material. As it is endorsed by the Department for Education and Skills, there may be help with funding for students. It is considered as professional development for practitioners with the opportunity to continue onto the Level 3 articulated route of either the BA (Hons) Early Childhood Studies at Stockport College or the BA (Hons) Childhood Studies at Liverpool John Moores University. The Foundation degree by Liverpool John Moores University.

Contact Stockport College of Further and Higher Education, as above.

* BA (Hons) Early Childhood Studies, at Suffolk College. This fully-modular course is three years full-time or four-and-a-half to nine years part-time, and enables students to study early childhood at degree level. The programme adopts a multidisciplinary approach to the education of young children from birth to eight, offering 29 modules, with full-time students completing 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 and you can combine Early Childhood Studies with 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 in Nursery Nursing with distinction profile and supported by four GCSEs at grade C or above. Applications are welcome from mature candidates who have relevant experience and are able to demonstrate the ability to study at degree level. A two-year full- or part-time DipHE is also available. Entry requirements are one A level or equivalent, for example, BTec ND/Adv, GNVQ in relevant subject areas at pass level/CACHE Diploma in Nursery Nursing merit profile and three GCSEs at grade C or above, including English.

Applications are welcome from mature candidates who have relevant experience. Suffolk College also has a PGCE Early Years Primary SATT for graduates. After completing this course, students have progressed to Early Years PGCE, Dip Social Work, MA programmes, and those with appropriate experience work as lecturers, tutors, managers and under-fives workers.

Contact the Information Centre, Suffolk College, Rope Walk, Ipswich IP4 1LT (01473 296606, e-mail info@suffolk.ac.uk,website www.suffolk.ac.uk).

* BA (Hons) Early Childhood Studies, at Sunderland University. In this three-year course, students study three modules in either Sociology, Childcare in the community or National Curriculum subjects. If students choose National Curriculum subjects their degree title will be Early Childhood and Curriculum Studies, otherwise it will be Early Childhood Studies. Students study 15 core modules, observe children in a variety of settings and make a practical study of a local community. The Care strand develops understanding in Guidance and counselling, Care in the community and Communicating with children, while the Curriculum strand lets students study English, History, Geography, Mathematics, Science or Design and technology. In Year three, a project enables participants to make a study of an aspect of childhood of interest. All students study at all levels Special needs, Child development, The acquisition of language in young children, and The child in society. This degree will help students gain employment in social services, children's charities, and education. Those wishing to work in social services may need a social work qualification in addition to their degree and students wishing to teach will need to take a PGCE after getting the degree.

Contact Jane Arthurs, Sunderland University, Hammerton Hall, Gray Road, Sunderland SR2 8JB (0191 515 2395/2457, e-mail jane.arthurs@sunderland.

ac.uk, website www.sunderland.

ac.uk).

* BA (Hons) in Early Childhood Studies, at University College Worcester.

This is a three-year full-time or part-time course. Before entry, students must have completed an HND in Early Childhood Studies or an equivalent related qualification. This is a third year of study for students with the HND or with a professional qualification relevant to the early years, and it leads to a degree in Early Childhood Studies. Students who successfully complete the course will have research skills, the ability to apply theory to practice, written and oral presentation skills, independent learning and team skills, the ability to critically analyse early years issues, policy and practice, enhanced communication skills, the ability to design and execute research, and a range of transferable skills in learning, time management, IT and teamwork. The Honours degree gives a broad intellectual foundation and discipline for many careers involving numeracy, literacy, communication, problem-solving and a comparative perspective. Graduates work in early years education, social care, play specialisms, nursery management, nursery advisors and inspectors. The qualification also provides access to postgraduate qualifications, such as PGCE or Diploma in Social Work, in addition to research at Masters or Doctorate level.

Contact Janet Murray, Field leader, University College Worcester, Henwick Grove, Worcester WR2 6AJ (01905 855313, e-mail j.murray@worc. ac.uk, website www.

worc.ac.uk).

Scotland

* Postgraduate courses in Early Education at the University of Edinburgh.

There are two part-time postgraduate courses - the Diploma, which takes two years and the Postgraduate Certificate, which takes three years. The early education pathway into the Masters programme emphasises issues in research and policy, and the way these influence the curriculum; understandings about child development; and interactions between home, under-fives settings, school and community, and takes into account the various dimensions of change. It recognises the importance of inter-professional exchange, as well as encouraging experienced practitioners to re-examine their practice in the light of their own learning and enquiry. 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.

The Postgraduate MEd in Early Education is not recruiting new students.

Early education options will be gradually brought into a new postgraduate programme being developed, which has a proposed start in 2003-04. This programme is being designed for teachers to articulate with the Standard for Chartered Teacher. For more information on this development e-mail charteredteacher@ed.ac.ukor visit www.education.ed.ac.uk/cpd/ct. html.

Contact the Faculty of Education Postgraduate Office, University of Edinburgh, Old Moray House, Holyrood Road, Edinburgh, Scotland EH8 8AQ (0131 651 6139, e-mail education.faculty@ed.ac.uk,website www.ed.ac.uk).

Northern Ireland

* BA (Hons) Early Childhood Studies, at Stranmillis University College, Belfast. This is a three-year full-time or four to seven years part-time course. The degree may also 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. Applicants over the age of 21 without 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 or NNEB. The course is organised on a modular basis, with a work experience placement forming the core. Students undertake 18 modules dealing with themes such as The child and the context of Educare, Young children learning and The professional context. Supporting modules give opportunities for the development of the knowledge and competences necessary for qualified professionals to undertake the demanding and complex roles involved in supporting, caring for and educating young children. Part-time students are expected to have or be able to obtain access to professional placements as an integral part of the degree.

Full-time students will have such experiences provided for them by the college.

Contact the Academic Registry, Stranmillis University College, Belfast NOrthern Ireland BT9 5DY (028 9038 1271, e-mail Registry@stran.ac.uk,website www.stran.ac.uk).

Wales

* Foundation Degree in Early Childhood Studies at Llandrillo College, Colwyn Bay, North Wales in the School of Health and Holistics. This part-time course includes a two-year part-time HNC, plus one further year's study two evenings per week. The modules in the third year are Special needs, Action research, Influences on learning and development, and the Employment Certificate. The courses aim to help students to become reflective practitioners, linking theory to practice.

Contact Jane Appleton, Llandrillo College, Colwyn Bay (01492 546666 ext.

548, e-mail j.appleton@llandrillo.ac.uk,website www.llandrillo.ac.uk).