Bachelor of Arts (Honours) - Early Childhood Studies (with Foundation Year)

This degree has a sharp focus on employability in the early years sector, and with teaching informed by the influential works of Friedrich Froebel. This course is offered as a degree with foundation year - a four-year programme which provides an additional foundation year at the beginning of the degree, that will give students the academic and practical experience, as well as the skills they need to ensure they are equipped to successfully complete their chosen degree. During the foundation year, students will take modules in English and Maths which will develop their core academic and study skills. The syllabus includes a year-long module relevant to the students' chosen degree subject such as Education Essentials: Learning and Development. This will provide students with a subject specific knowledge in Education which is essential for success in their degree. The University of Roehampton is internationally renowned for its work in early childhood studies. With a team of highly-regarded tutors, who are all experts in their specialisms, students will learn from some of the best in the field. This degree will empower students with the knowledge and skills, confidence and resilience to act as an advocate for babies, young children, their families and communities. Students will develop an understanding of policy and practice, and learn to engage in critical inquiry and problem solving around key issues in the field. Please note that BA Early Childhood Studies is a programme of academic study and is not in itself a qualification to work as an early years teacher or practitioner. The course takes a distinctive Froebelian approach to the study of early years, grounded in the following principles: • A holistic view of babies, young children, their families and the communities they are part of, making links with past, present and future.

• The centrality of play and (outdoor) environments for wellbeing and learning • Inclusion and connectedness, and a commitment to social justice in the field of early childhood • A commitment to recognising and responding to the individual experiences and understandings of children • Continued development of understanding of professionalism and professional reflection and action, linking theory, research and practice

This course offers all students the option of a one-year paid work placement, to boost their employability even further. If students choose this route, they will take the placement following year two of their course, and then return to complete their degree.