Early Childhood Studies with Foundation Year

Program Overview

The Early Childhood Studies with Foundation Year (BA Hons) program at Leeds Trinity University provides a comprehensive education in early childhood development, pedagogy, and practice. Through a combination of theoretical knowledge and practical experience, students develop the skills and knowledge necessary for careers in the Early Childhood sector, including teaching, childcare, and research. The program emphasizes social justice, inclusion, and diversity, preparing graduates to be reflective and research-informed practitioners in the field.

Program Outline

Outline

Year 1

• Child Development
• Play and Early Learning
• Safeguarding and Child Protection
• Health, Care and Wellbeing in the Early Years
• Academic Skills, Personal and Professional Development

Year 2

• Equality, Diversity and Inclusive Educational Practice
• Creative Pedagogical Approaches
• Research Methods and Evidence Based Practice
• Sustainability through Early Years Leadership
• Professional Placement
• Early Years Leadership

Year 3

• Mental Health in the 21st Century
• Professional Learning Through Work
• Critical Issues in the Lives and Education of Young Children
• Therapeutic Interventions with Children and Families
• Research Project

Assessment

Assessment Methods:

• Essays
• Reports
• Examinations
• Practice-based assessments
• Portfolios
• Presentations
• Group projects

Assessment Criteria:

• Knowledge and understanding
• Application of theory
• Analysis and evaluation
• Critical thinking
• Reflection
• Professionalism
• Communication

Teaching

Teaching methods:

• Lectures
• Seminars
• Workshops
• Group discussions
• Independent study
• Field trips
• Placements

Faculty:

Experienced lecturers and practitioners with expertise in early childhood education.

Unique approaches:

• Focus on social justice, inclusion, and diversity.
• Emphasis on developing students as reflective and research-informed practitioners.
• Integrates theory with practice through placements and work-based learning opportunities.

Careers

Career Paths:

• Early Years Teacher
• Nursery Nurse
• Playworker
• SENCO
• Youth worker
• Children's centre worker
• Family support worker
• Researcher
• Policymaker
• Further study

Career Opportunities:

• Childcare settings
• Schools
• Children's centres
• Hospitals
• Charities
• Local government
• Academia

Career Outcomes:

• Graduates are well-prepared for careers in the Early Childhood sector.
• The program meets the requirements for Early Childhood Graduate Practitioner status.
Other
• Students have the opportunity to study abroad.
• The program offers strong employability support, including work placements, career workshops, and mentoring.
• The university has strong links with employers and professional organizations in the Early Childhood sector.
# Summary