Masters Degrees in Nursery Education, United Kingdom

This MA offers you the opportunity to explore current issues within early childhood education in national and international contexts, and can open up a wide range of career opportunities in areas including childcare management, lecturing and research.

It focuses on the crucial role that experiences in early education play in producing happy, healthy and successful children. Drawing on your own professional experience, practice and interests you'll be able to research and develop specialist areas of expertise within this field.

Specifically, our re-validated course provides an exciting new opportunity to:
• Engage in rigorous and critical professional development
• Explore issues of relevance to your own workplace
• Enhance your skills in research and critical enquiry
• Investigate the latest research
• Innovate and lead practice

Visit the website: https://www.canterbury.ac.uk/study-here/courses/postgraduate/early-childhood-education.aspx

Course detail

The range of modules is designed to reflect the range of expertise and specialisms within the Early Childhood Directorate teaching team, who are passionate about using insights from their research to enhance your learning experience. You will have the opportunity to develop your own research and specialist areas of expertise, based on personal interests and professional experiences. We encourage you to gain experience as a researcher, and there may be opportunities to get involved in research projects and student internships within the Faculty of Education.

You will study a core module at the outset which will help you develop an understanding of Level 7 learning and the importance of reflection on practice, as you begin to develop effective Level 7 writing skills and abilities.

• Professional Development through Research, Reflection and Professional Practice (core 20 credit module)

As you progress you will have the opportunity to develop these skills further in a range of optional 20 credit modules. Options include the following although some combinations may be limited due to your mode of study (full/part¬time). All modules are subject to change.

• Early Childhood Education: Curricular and Pedagogical Approaches (optional)
• Leading Quality Practice in Early Childhood Education (optional)
• Policy and Practice in Early Childhood Education (optional)
• Learning Outdoors in Early Childhood (optional)
• Children’s Lives in Context: Historical and International Perspectives (optional)
• Children and Charities in Early Childhood Education (optional)
• Early Childhood Education for Sustainability (optional)
• Early Childhood Education: Negotiated Project (optional)

The final 60 credits of the course are designed to enable you to demonstrate self-direction and originality in conducting an independent research study into a specialist area in early childhood education.

Suitability

The MA attracts a wide range of graduates from a variety of backgrounds not necessarily Early Years related but those who wish to expand and deepen their knowledge of young children from birth to 8 years. Throughout the course you will have the opportunity to engage in extracurricular activities hosted by the University such as conferences, open lectures, and visits to early years settings.

Format

You'll study using a variety of learning and teaching strategies involving you as an active participant in the process of learning and teaching depending upon the mode of delivery. Modules typically consist of a series of lectures, workshops and seminars which are delivered over the course of seven weeks. Some modules may be offered on a blended basis combining face to face Saturday sessions with access to online learning resources. Blended delivery is particularly appropriate where the module content demands experiential learning and some sessions may include field work as well as classroom based activities. It is also appropriate for modules such as the Negotiated Project where students are encouraged to further their own specific research interests with one-to-one tutor support.

All learning will be supported through the use of the University Virtual Learning Environment (Blackboard) as well as other digital media. Individual tutorials are offered to students in all modules and individual supervision forms an essential part of work on the dissertation. The module tutor or the Programme Director will act as your personal tutor.

Assessment

The programme uses a range of assessment types including presentations, action research reports, reflective commentaries, literature reviews and document analysis. You will also complete a 15,000 word dissertation based on your research interests.

What can I do next?

As a programme of rigorous and critical professional development, the MA Early Childhood Education can open up a wide range of opportunities. Graduates from the MA Early Childhood Education have been successful in pursuing careers in a variety of different professional contexts with roles including Lecturer in Early Years, Nursery Manager, Childrens Centre Manager, Deputy Headteacher (primary) and Creative Early Years Specialist. Some students have gone on to enroll on doctoral programmes and to undertake a PhD based on their particular research interests.

How to apply

For information on how to apply, please follow this link: https://www.canterbury.ac.uk/study-here/how-to-apply/how-to-apply.aspx

Funding

-Masters Loans-

From 2016/17 government loans of up to £10,000 are available for postgraduate Masters study. The loans will be paid directly to students by the Student Loans Company and will be subject to both personal and course eligibility criteria.

For more information available here: https://www.canterbury.ac.uk/study-here/funding-your-degree/funding-your-postgraduate-degree.aspx

-2017/18 Entry Financial Support-

Information on alternative funding sources is available here: https://www.canterbury.ac.uk/study-here/funding-your-degree/2017-18-entry-financial-support.aspx

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The Early Years Education (Online) MA offers exceptional career development opportunities for early childhood practitioners and other professionals worldwide. This new programme builds upon the success of our established campus-based Early Years Education MA programme.

Degree information

This Master’s degree offers students the opportunity to:
-Enhance their professional development and understanding of national and global issues in early learning, early years policy and curricula.
-Critically evaluate a range of literature about young children’s learning and best practice in early education.
-Develop their understanding of research methodology with and about young children.
-Conduct their own small-scale research project in a setting of their own choice.

Students undertake modules to the value of 180 credits. The programme consists of four core modules (120 credits) and a dissertation (60 credits). There are no optional modules for this programme.

Core modules
-Contemporary Issues in the Early Years
-Early Childhood Education
-Leadership in Early Childhood Education
-Researching Early Years and Primary Education

Dissertation/report
All students undertake an independent research project which culminates in a dissertation of 20,000 words.

Teaching and learning
The programme is delivered through online sessions based on Moodle, our virtual learning environment. Assessment is by 5,000-word coursework assignments and a 20,000-word dissertation.

Careers

This is a new programme and no information on graduate destinations is therefore available. Graduates of the campus-based Early Years Education MA are currently working as advisers to local and national governments; nursery, children’s centre and primary school senior leaders; further and higher education tutors; early years doctoral and funded researchers.

Employability
This programme will enable students to understand and reflect on current knowledge of early years policy and practice in the UK and internationally; raise awareness of research into early childhood practice and of research methods and approaches relevant to the field of study; enable early years educators to gain a critical understanding of policy development in early childhood services, at a local, national and international level.

Why study this degree at UCL?

The UCL Institute of Education (IOE) is ranked first for education in the QS World University Rankings (2015).

This new online programme provides students worldwide with an opportunity to access the exceptional expertise of the IOE.

The Early Years Education staff team at the IOE have been at the forefront of international research for two decades including the renowned Effective Pre-School, Primary and Secondary Education (EPPSE) project - http://www.ioe.ac.uk/research/153.html

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The programme allows students to engage with current issues and debates relevant to early years education, increasing understanding of policy development and developing leadership knowledge and skills to assess the quality of early years practice. Students gain understanding of general methodology and research methods, which enables them to conduct research in early years settings.

Degree information

This programme provides the opportunity for students to access professional development that is informed by best practice in early years education. It will also prepare students for leadership roles and develop their understanding of general methodology and research methods.

Students undertake modules to the value of 180 credits. The programme consists of three core modules (90 credits), one optional module (30 credits) and a dissertation (60 credits).

Core modules
-Contemporary Issues in the Early Years
-Early Childhood Education
-Researching Early Years and Primary Education

Optional modules
-Leadership in Early Childhood Education
-Students can also choose one from a wide range of Master's-level optional modules across the UCL IOE offering.

Dissertation/report
All students undertake an independent research project which culminates in a 20,000-word dissertation.

Teaching and learning
This programme is delivered through face-to-face evening sessions. Assessment is through assignments and a dissertation.

Careers

Graduates of the Early Years Education MA are currently working as nursery teachers and managers, primary school teachers, advisers to local and national government and researchers on early childhood programmes.

Top career destinations for this degree:
-PhD in Early Years Education, Institute of Education, University of London (IOE)
-Day School Teacher (Early Years), Girls' Day School Trust (GDST)
-Pre-School Teacher, Unspecified Pre-School

Employability
By taking this programme students develop an international, critical and deep understanding of early years leadership, curriculum, pedagogy and assessment.

Why study this degree at UCL?

The Early Years Education staff team at UCL Institute of Education have been at the forefront of international research for two decades including the renowned Effective Pre-School, Primary and Secondary Education (EPPSE) project.

The research and teaching team specialise in early years leadership, pedagogy and curriculum and assessment.

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This postgraduate qualification is designed for those who want to develop their understanding and knowledge of early years education and care. It provides ideal training and staff development pertinent to those working with young children and their families in a range of settings and situations.

Course Overview

The degree is delivered so that students can integrate work commitments and study. The course combines face-to-face delivery at the University with independent study by the student from home. Lectures/ workshops are delivered as twilight/ evening sessions or on the weekend.

The course also uses blended learning where students use online resources provided by the tutors to complement and extend classroom learning.

The MA Early Years Education and Care programme takes a critical and analytic overview of children’s early learning and care and sets this in the context of social learning and societal influences. Students will be encouraged to take a critical approach to research, theories and beliefs about children’s learning. The crucial role of adults in that learning process, as policy makers and pedagogues, will be deconstructed and debated. The course focuses on the remarkable skills of young children as powerful and competent learners; studying what they learn, how they learn, why they learn.

The programme has themes and principles which run throughout and which are linked to the principles of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child:
-The well-being of the child
-The role of the reflective and self-critical adult in children’s early learning and well-being
-The core values that underpin all adult relationships with children: inclusion, anti-oppressive practice, respect for the child

These are threads that run through the programme, allowing students to appreciate the critical relationship between the integrative approach to children’s learning and good practice in early years settings.

Modules

During the first part of the MA programme students will study compulsory modules linked to:
-Research for and with young children
-Well-being in the early years
-Young childrens' learning
-The professional practitioner

The second part of the MA consists of undertaking a dissertation on a topic of your own interest. You will be supported during the research process with individual supervision from an experienced member of academic staff.

Key Features

This is an ideal qualification for teachers, LSAs, nursery personnel, child-minders, lecturers and course providers, Flying Start personnel and anyone interested in working with young children and their families.

The course has been designed by the School of Early Years to support professionals deliver high quality early childhood provision and deliver effective child care and education policy and initiatives However the multidisciplinary and cross-curricular nature of the course, as well as the strong emphasis on reflection, evaluation, analysis and research provide students with important transferable skills. The degree’s focus on undertaking research, academic writing skills and oral presentation skills also allow students to develop skills which are sought by employers and are transferable to several different career situations.

The course is delivered by tutors who have extensive experience of working with young children in a range of early years settings and who also have delivered postgraduate training and qualifications successfully for several years.

Assessment

The assignments are varied and designed to assess a range of different skills including critical reflection, evaluation and analysis. Assessments are designed to develop students’ practical and independent research skills where students feel confident to link issues relevant to young children’s learning within a theoretical academic context.

Assessment includes both written tasks as well as opportunities to develop oral skills during seminar presentations.

Those who wish to gain the MA will complete a research dissertation during the second part of their studies which provides an opportunity to undertake a significant piece of research in an area related to early literacy. Students will be supported during the process with individual supervision from an experienced member of the academic staff.

Career Opportunities

Graduates of the MA have gone on to further their careers as:
-Advisory teachers in the Foundation Phase
-Headteachers
-CSSIW senior managers
-Integrated centre managers
-Further Education lecturers

Several of the current School of Early Childhood personnel have graduated with the MA Early Childhood.

The early years focus of this course allows students to demonstrate to employers an expertise in an area currently the focus of government education initiatives. Developing an expertise within early years can support students to take advantage of promotion opportunities or new responsibilities within their current employment.

The degree also focuses on developing students’ research skills, written and oral communication skills as well providing students with excellent time management and organisation skills. These are all skills which are highly sought after by a variety of diverse employers, and thus skills gained during the degree are transferable to different career pathways.

The School of Early Years works closely with employers and has developed an employer forum with local employers. The forum meets regularly and helps the lecturing team ensure that the content of the degree supports the types of skills and experiences required of graduates when applying for work.

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Do you want to work with children from birth to five years old (including Reception) in the public and private sectors? Achieve Early Years Teacher Status (EYTS) in just one year with this Masters-level course.

Early Years learning primarily focuses on the following ideas:
-What constitutes ‘quality’ in Early Years education?
-Equity, inclusion and justice for the pre-school child and the wider family
-Ideas of communication, imagination, language and literacy, and provision for the bi/trilingual child
-Understandings of early mathematical and scientific development
-Discourses of nurture, care and attachment

How will I study?

Choose from two routes through this course:
-If you follow the Employment route, you’ll work part or full time in an Early Years setting during your period of study. Your employer receives remuneration to support your studies.
-If you follow the Graduate route, you’ll be placed full time in an Early Years setting and you may be eligible for a bursary.

Over your study period, you spend up to 120 days working in an Early Years setting (this will vary depending on whether you are taking the Employment route or the Graduate route to achieve EYTS).

You’ll have experience of an alternative Early Years setting and a Key Stage 1 placement within the year. On average, you spend one day per week at the University where taught components of the course are delivered.

Scholarships

Our aim is to ensure that every student who wants to study with us is able to despite financial barriers, so that we continue to attract talented and unique individuals.

Chancellor's International Scholarship (2017)
-25 scholarships of a 50% tuition fee waiver
-Application deadline: 1 May 2017

HESPAL Scholarship (Higher Education Scholarships Scheme for the Palestinian Territories) (2017)
-Two full fee waivers in conjuction with maintenance support from the British Council
-Application deadline: 1 January 2017

PGCE First-Generation Scholars Award (2017)
-£600 maintenance award to PGCE students with a household income below £42,875

USA Friends Scholarships (2017)
-A scholarship of an amount equivalent to $10,000 for nationals or residents of the USA on a one year taught Masters degree course
-Application deadline: 3 April 2017

Careers

This MA with Early Years Teachers Status (EYTS) offers the opportunity to combine Masters-level study with practical experience of teaching and researching in the Early Years Foundation Stage. You deepen your knowledge and understanding of educational theory and practice, and develop your skills in:
-Research and analysis
-Presentation and communication
-Critical reflection

With these skills you’ll have a wide range of educational careers open to you – nationally and internationally.

If you’re a professional in employment, this course gives you excellent opportunities for career development and progression into Early Years leadership in a range of private and state-maintained settings.

If you’re a new graduate, it provides a springboard into Early Years teaching in both the public and private sector.

As a qualified Early Years Teacher with EYTS, you can teach within private nursery and day-care settings. Free Schools and Academies can employ you to teach Reception children as a full class teacher, while in state-maintained nurseries or Reception classes, you will be qualified to teach with the support of a member of staff with Qualified Teacher Status (QTS).

The terrain of Early Years educational provision is fast changing. This Masters course has been designed to equip you with all the necessary skills and dispositions to lead in this sector.

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Recognise and champion the uniqueness of every child as you take a 'whole child' holistic approach to children, from birth to 18, and their families. You will have the opportunity to study the theory and practice through two distinct routes Early Years or Children and Young People.

Our interdisciplinary and global approach to study and research reflects a commitment to children's rights, social justice for children, child-centred learning and developing awareness of social divisions in childhood.

The Early Years route explores young children's learning, education and care across multiple settings. The Children and Young People route focuses more closely on critically examining concepts, contexts and intervention across different spheres of childhood. Both routes emphasise children and young people as social actors with rights and entitlements, according to their particular cultural and social differences.

We're committed to children's rights, social justice for children, child-centred learning and developing awareness of social divisions in childhood, and these themes are at the heart of this course, forming the basis of your study and research.

- Research Excellence Framework 2014: twice as many of our staff - 220 - were entered into the research assessment for 2014 compared to the number entered in 2008

Visit the website http://courses.leedsbeckett.ac.uk/childhoodearlyyears_ma

Mature Applicants

Our University welcomes applications from mature applicants who demonstrate academic potential. We usually require some evidence of recent academic study, for example completion of an access course, however recent relevant work experience may also be considered. Please note that for some of our professional courses all applicants will need to meet the specified entry criteria and in these cases work experience cannot be considered in lieu.

If you wish to apply through this route you should refer to our University Recognition of Prior Learning policy that is available on our website (http://www.leedsbeckett.ac.uk/studenthub/recognition-of-prior-learning.htm).

Please note that all applicants to our University are required to meet our standard English language requirement of GCSE grade C or equivalent, variations to this will be listed on the individual course entry requirements.

Careers

This course is ideal if you work - or you aspire to work - in early years settings, therapeutic services, youth work, criminal justice service, play-work, child health, teaching, social work or related children's services. The education graduate job market is competitive and a postgraduate qualification in childhood studies and early years is designed to give you an edge.

- Early Years Advisor
- Nursery Co-ordinator
- Children's Charity Worker
- Social Worker

Careers advice:
The dedicated Jobs and Careers team offers expert advice and a host of resources to help you choose and gain employment. Whether you're in your first or final year, you can speak to members of staff from our Careers Office who can offer you advice from writing a CV to searching for jobs.

Visit the careers site - https://www.leedsbeckett.ac.uk/employability/jobs-careers-support.htm

Course Benefits

You can study this course over one, two or three years. It's delivered through day, evening and Saturday sessions or via distance learning to fit around your working pattern.

This course is valuable if you want to explore contemporary issues about children's and young people's social, political, cultural and educational lives in a global context. We have students from a variety of professional backgrounds on the course which encourages a significant number of valid and relevant perspectives in class discussions. We also draw ideas from a great variety of academic disciplines including history, geography philosophy, psychology, sociology and anthropology. All of these things mean that you will come away from your course with a broader and more developed view of the sector and what children and young people need today.

Howard Stones

Senior Lecturer in the School of Education

"Our course provides you with the theories, concepts, knowledge and skills to explore children's lives in a global context. This academic course will appeal to anyone who is interested in studying, or working with, children from birth to eighteen."

Howard taught secondary school physics and mathematics for ten years. Subsequently, he has worked on photographic and drama projects with young people before moving to higher education to lecture in community studies, managing change in community, applied criminal justice and childhood.

Facilities

- Online library
Global access to Leeds Beckett's extensive online library, with over 100,000 electronic journals, books and databases to supercharge your study.

- Dedicated Support Team
A highly-skilled and dedicated support team whose job is to work with you through every step of your online learning.

- Virtual Learning Environment
A Virtual Learning Environment that?s easy to use and available whenever and wherever you are.

Find out how to apply here - http://www.leedsbeckett.ac.uk/postgraduate/how-to-apply/

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Why this course?

The course is available part-time, via distance learning and online learning.

The Early Years Pedagogue (replacing the Early Years Teacher Specialism) is recognised by the Scottish Government, and many local authorities, as a qualification that provides the opportunity for the early years workforce to develop/strengthen their specialist knowledge of the early years.

Its blended approach to learning helps to support professional training and networking across local authorities, alongside practice-based assessments.

The course develops opportunities for you to view your work in nursery and early primary settings in Scotland, in line with contemporary research and international perspectives of what makes effective early years pedagogy.

The Early Years Pedagogue incorporates the need for teachers and practitioners to critically reflect on the adult’s role in developing and understanding young children’s learning journeys and narratives alongside recognising the vital role that the environment has to play in developing health, wellbeing and achievement.

See the website https://www.strath.ac.uk/courses/postgraduatetaught/earlyyearspedagogue/

You’ll study

You’ll attend a two-day induction course on campus, followed by an introductory week which will be online.
The course is delivered through the web, using Myplace, the University’s virtual online learning environment.

- Postgraduate Certificate
The Postgraduate Certificate is made up of three core modules. After successful completion, you may continue to Diploma study.

- Postgraduate Diploma
To be awarded an Early Years Pedagogue (EYP) Diploma, you must complete three further modules.
You may choose three from the EYP course or two from the EYP course and one from another Masters course.

- Masters
To complete studies to Masters, you'll undertake a further research module and a dissertation on a topic of your choice.

Pre-Masters preparation course

The Pre-Masters Programme is a preparation course for international students (non EU/UK) who do not meet the entry requirements for a Masters degree at the University of Strathclyde. The Pre-Masters programme provides progression to a number of degree options.
To find out more about the courses and opportunities on offer visit isc.strath.ac.uk or call today on +44 (0) 1273 339333 and discuss your education future. You can also complete the online application form, or to ask a question please fill in the enquiry form and talk to one of our multi-lingual Student Enrolment Advisers today.

Course content

This course offers teachers and high achieving BACP graduates the chance to specialise further in their field and best meet the needs of children in nursery and early primary school.
The certificate explores contemporary and historical perspectives in relation to what matters in early education and how these relate to early years practice.
The diploma looks in depth at how children learn from pre-birth and ways that teachers can use their knowledge of children as learners, the wider life of families and communities to lead pedagogy and work alongside stakeholders to develop learning.

Learning & teaching

You'll attend a two-day induction course on campus, followed by a trial week before the start Module 1.
The rest of the course is delivered through the web using the University’s online learning platform. You’ll have a weekly student-tutor chat session. You’ll also have the opportunity to work collaboratively on weekly tasks within a virtual learning environment. The course will have a password-protected site accessible to tutors and students and our web developer only.

Assessment

A range of practice, linked assessments have been developed to alongside module content.

Find information on Scholarships here http://www.strath.ac.uk/search/scholarships/

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Do you want to gain Early Years Teacher Status (EYTS)? This qualification is growing in popularity, and students who hold this status are leading professionals in the provision of services for children aged up to five.

The Early Years Initial Teacher Training (EYITT) follows two routes, each developed to meet a range of needs. So whatever your interests and qualifications, you’ll find the perfect route.

Route one: Postgraduate Diploma in Early Years with EYITT (GEE)
Also known as the Graduate Entry Employment-Based route, this option is perfect for those already working in an early years setting. The course is similar to the graduate entry-level programme, but incorporates plenty of work-based learning. In most cases employers are able to obtain funding to cover the release time for employees who wish to undertake this course.

Route two: Postgraduate Diploma in Early Years with EYITT (GEM)
Designed for graduates in any discipline, this route is ideal for those who’ve decided to change careers, or new graduates with an interest in early years education. It’s also known as the Graduate Entry Mainstream Route. The course is fully funded by NCTL and small bursaries may be available for eligible candidates.

Modules

-Critical Perspectives on Pedagogy and Play within the EYFS
-Placement 1
-Notions of Quality in Early Years Practice
-Placement 2-Interim Assessment EYT
-Transforming Early Years Practitioners: Facilitating Reflective Learning
-Placement 3-Final Assessment EYT

Career Opportunities

Successful completion of the programme results in the award of Postgraduate Diploma in Early Years with Early Years Teacher Status.Typically, students find employment in Children's Centres, nursery classes in schools, private and voluntary-funded nurseries or working in Local Authority Early Years Provision.

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This full-time route is for new graduates and career changers who will not be employed in the early years sector during the training. It is based at the University of Warwick and includes 120 placement days in schools and early years settings.

The EYITT is a government endorsed scheme through which you will gain Early Years Teacher Status (EYTS). This will allow you to teach the Early Years Foundation Stage in an early years setting.

Route 1: University-Led

This full-time route is for new graduates and career changers who will not be employed in the early years sector during the training. It is based at the University of Warwick and includes 120 placement days in schools and early years settings.

Route 2: Employer-Led

This part-time route is for graduates who are already employed in an early years setting/early years department of a school within a 50 mile radius of our campus (CV4 8EE). It provides hands-on training in an employment setting. This route is also available to childminders. Occasionally we can provide you with support in finding employment while you study through this route.

Information for Employers
-As an employer you will receive £7,000 (funding from the government) to cover the cost of your 16 University days and 6 week alternative placement.
-As a partner, the employer will be entitled to attend any of our Early Years CPD for free.
-A qualification in Early Years Teaching has a strong element in the Ofsted inspection.
-There is more flexibility with Early Year Teachers, ratios 1:13 compared to 1:8.
-Parents will be encouraged in their decision making process on selecting a nursery with staff who have obtained qualifications such as the EYITT.

Route 3: Assessment Only

This short route is for experienced graduates who are already employed in an early years setting/early years department of a school, and are able to demonstrate the Early Years Teaching Standards without further training.

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The MA in Early Years examines issues in the provision of Care and Education for children under 8 with regard to policy and practice in the UK and abroad.

Our philosophy is that study should be relevant to the workplace, with a strong emphasis placed on reflecting on your own practice in order to bring about personal and organisational improvements. These improvements will impact upon the attainment, achievement, motivation and well-being of children directly, or indirectly, through improvement in the quality of service provision. Examples of good practice are drawn from research literature and from discussion with other practitioners.

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Taught at our Riverside Campus in Chester, our Early Years Teacher Status (EYTS) is a pathway to qualifying as a teacher of the 0-5 age range.

This qualification is designed for highly qualified staff who will lead delivery of the Early Years Foundation Stage Framework in the early years sector. The University of Chester is an accredited provider and runs three routes to EYTS.

Why Study Early Years Practice with us?

The Faculty of Education and Children's Services at the University of Chester is both forward-looking, preparing trainee teachers and the wider children’s workforce for the 21st century, and yet equally proud of its history and tradition. The Postgraduate Certificate in Early Years Practice with Early Years Teacher Status is a new and exciting course which provides a bespoke experience that will build upon your extensive practice and allow you to make personal professional decisions in your continuing professional development.

We offer three training routes:
- Graduate Employment Based
- Graduate Entry
- Assessment Only

What will I learn?

Our course aims to secure your professional and academic learning by:
- promoting scholarship
- cultivating original thinking
- facilitating critical reflection
- stimulating research and enquiry
- influencing impact and change.

The course will allow you to use your subject knowledge and experience to contribute and impact positively on the holistic education of children in the 0-5 age range.

You will develop a critical understanding of appropriate pedagogical approaches to work with children and families in a diverse society.

How will I be taught?

University-based modules are held at Riverside Campus. We employ a range of approaches, including lectures, seminars, group work, directed tasks, independent research and individual and group tutorials. This interaction between tutors and students may be online or face to face.
University contact time for Graduate Entry and Graduate Employment Based is approximately 40 days, spread throughout the year to support both the student experience in settings and the Master’s modules and assessment. There is an expectation that this will also be supported by you undertaking approximately 180 hours’ independent study per module.

How will I be assessed?

Assessment will be by:
- a 4,000-word essay
- an academic poster presentation
- a critically reflective portfolio providing evidence towards the Teachers’ Standards (Early Years).

The assessed placement involves 120 days in an assessed early years setting, Reception Class and Key Stage 1.

Postgraduate Visit Opportunities

If you are interested in this courses we have a number of opportunities to visit us and our campuses. To find out more about these options and to book a visit, please go to: https://www1.chester.ac.uk/study/postgraduate/postgraduate-visit-opportunities

Request a Prospectus

If you would like to know more about the University please request a prospectus at: http://prospectus.chester.ac.uk/form.php

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Advance your knowledge of young children’s learning and develop your early years practice and professionalism. Explore areas of personal interest in early childhood education and care whilst also enhancing your research skills. There will also be opportunities to visit different early years settings.

See the website http://www.anglia.ac.uk/study/postgraduate/early-childhood-education

If you have a degree in early childhood studies, pre-school education or a related subject, our MA offers a great opportunity to explore aspects of young children’s lives in more depth, examining current policies and practices to build on your existing knowledge. If that’s you, why not take this opportunity to boost your skills and knowledge? You’ll be able to link your newly-learned theories and research with your practice from the start, boosting your contribution to your workplace and enhancing your career prospects. Taught by experienced tutors who are passionate about using insights from research to enhance the lives of young children and their families. The course focusses on early childhood education from birth until eight years old and you'll graduate with a valuable postgraduate qualification.

Teaching times: Tuesday evenings (5-8pm) plus day time study for full-time students; Tuesday evenings only for part-time students. For all part-time students and for full-time students starting in January, there are two Saturday day schools and a daytime summer school in the last week of July in trimester 3.

For the June intake you can only choose to study part-time.

See the website http://www.anglia.ac.uk/study/postgraduate/early-childhood-education

Careers

Are you working with children, or do you intend to work with children in the future? If so, our MA will enhance your career. It provides a highly relevant professional development opportunity for you whether you’re an early years or pre-school teacher, a manager in a childcare setting, a family support worker or an early years consultant. It’s also a great starting point if you’re looking for a career in academia and is a step towards a PhD or EdD.

- Work placements
There are no formal work placements for this course. If you’re already working in an early years environment then you can immediately put your new skills and experience into practice. Our course also gives you the opportunity to visit different early years settings thanks to our links with local nurseries. If you’re interested in gaining experience as a researcher you may be able to get involved with research projects run by our Department of Education and the Early Childhood Research Group.

Core modules

Investigating Education through Research
Major Project

Optional modules:
Early Childhood - Principles, Practice & Professionalism
Specialist Studies in Early Childhood Education and Care
Professional Enquiry for Early Childhood
National & International Policy Perspectives

You will take 3 optional modules from the above list. The availability of modules will depend on whether you are a full-time or part-time student and on when you start your course. More information and guidance will be available from your course leader. All modules are subject to change.

Assessment

You’ll be assessed in a variety of ways including presentations and written assignments as well as group work and peer reviews. For each 30 credit module you’ll complete an assessment of 6,000 words or equivalent. Your Major Project will usually be a written research report of around 15,000 words.

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Early years education is globally recognised as being crucial for laying the foundation for lifelong learning and development, as critical aspects of social, emotional and cognitive development are established in a child’s early years.

This course is for prospective teachers, as well as non-teachers looking for a new career path. If your ambition is to teach in a school, then the MA Education Studies is ideally suited (although it is not itself a UK teaching qualification).

COURSE STRUCTURE

During the course, you’ll develop your knowledge and understanding of how children develop and learn, finding ways to create the most effective learning environment. You’ll be introduced to different pedagogical approaches, including international perspectives that will include a critical analysis of the cultural construction of childhood.

The course incorporates various elective modules which will enhance your skills and insights into developing quality educational provision for young children.

MODULE STRUCTURE

In your first trimester you'll study one award core module, Early Childhood Care and Education. In addition, you'll complete Education: Economics, Politics and Society.

In your second trimester you'll study the compulsory core module Social Science Research, which introduces a range of qualitative and quantitative methodologies and methods. In addition, two elective modules are studied in this trimester.

In your third trimester you will research and write your Dissertation. The dissertation enables you to study and research an aspect of early childhood education theory, policy or practice in depth, whilst being guided by an expert.

For more information on modules please refer to the course handbook: https://www.bathspa.ac.uk/courses/pg-education-early-years/

TEACHING METHODS AND RESOURCES

You’ll be taught through lectures and small group seminars. There are also individual tutorials and good opportunities for extended discussion with tutors. Analysis of ideas through discussion is the key to teaching and learning in the programme. Some lectures and seminars occur during the day. Others take place from late afternoon.

ASSESSMENT METHODS

There are no written exams and each module is assessed by coursework. This typically involves an essay of 2,500 words for a 15 credit module and 5,000 words for a 30 credit module. Sometimes assessment is by verbal presentation. Your dissertation will be 15,000–20,000 words and worth 60 credits.

For more information on teaching and assessment methods, please view the course handbook via the website: https://www.bathspa.ac.uk/courses/pg-education-early-years/

CAREER OPPORTUNITIES

Governments worldwide are now making early childhood education a priority and increasing their investment in early years provision. You’ll acquire specialist expertise in an area of education that is rapidly expanding and opening up new career opportunities.

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Early Years Teacher Status (EYTS) is a pathway to qualifying as a teacher of the 0-5 age range. This qualification is designed for highly qualified staff who will lead delivery of the Early Years Foundation Stage framework in the early years' sector.
UWE Bristol is an accredited provider and runs two routes to Early Years Teacher Status.

Key benefits

EYTS is awarded and accredited by The National College for Teaching and Learning (NCTL).

Graduate route (full-time)

This route is suitable for those with a degree (in any subject but not a Foundation degree) or equivalent and a desire to work in childcare. No previous experience necessary, although you would need to complete a two week placement in a childcare setting prior to beginning the course. The training is for 12 months full-time with 3 x 6 week block placements, in baby, toddler and pre-school age phase. Students are registered on the MA (Early Years). 90 credits of the MA qualification are completed over the duration of the year with option to accrue an additional 30 credits in the following year.

Graduate route (Employment based)

This route is for graduates who are currently employed in an early years' setting who wish to qualify as an EYT while continuing to work in practise. The training is for 12 months part-time with students being registered on the MA (Early Years). 90 credits of the MA qualification are completed over the duration of the year with an option to accrue an additional 30 credits in the following year. All fees are paid and additional payment of up to a current maximum of £7,000 per year can be made available to settings for supply cover.

Undergraduate route

This route is for students who wish to gain EYTS alongside the BA (Hons) Early Childhood degree. There is no additional fee payable for EYTS above the normal course fees for the Early Childhood degree.

Assessment

- Graduate route -

Assessment is through essays and a substantial EYTS Portfolio (in the 60 credit module). Depending on the selection of the final module, assessment could be by essay, independent long study, or through a research plan.

- Undergraduate route -

Through written assignments and practice-based portfolios which present evidence that a student has met the Standards for EYTS.

Careers / Further study

The Early Years Teacher Qualification leads to work in the early years' sector with children aged 0 to 5 years. Successful candidates are also permitted to teach in reception classes of free Schools, academies or independent schools.

How to apply

Information on applications can be found at the following link: http://www1.uwe.ac.uk/study/applyingtouwebristol/postgraduateapplications.aspx

Funding

- New Postgraduate Master's loans for 2016/17 academic year –

The government are introducing a master’s loan scheme, whereby master’s students under 60 can access a loan of up to £10,000 as a contribution towards the cost of their study. This is part of the government’s long-term commitment to enhance support for postgraduate study.

Scholarships and other sources of funding are also available.

More information can be found here: http://www1.uwe.ac.uk/students/feesandfunding/fundingandscholarships/postgraduatefunding.aspx

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If you want to teach tthree to seven-year-olds, this PGCE Early Years course is an exciting opportunity to launch your teaching career. Addressing issues of multiculturalism, diversity and more, this National College for Teaching and Leadership (NCTL) accredited course combines your theoretical training with a practical placement at the school. Attendees of our PGCE Early Years courses attain high results, with 95% achieving an Ofsted good or outstanding grade by the end of the course and 96% going on to obtain employment, often with their placement schools.

More about this course

This NCTL accredited PGCE Early Years course at London Met and one of our partner schools prepares you to teach 3 to 7-year-olds (Key Stage 1) and leads to Qualified Teacher Status.

You will study at London Met and attend two placements at a partnership school of 11 and 13 weeks. We’ll extend your knowledge, develop your classroom practice and help you examine the underlying principles and values that inform current debates around educational issues.

At London Met, you’ll learn about teaching in urban, multicultural and multilingual schools and will address the issues of language, diversity and equality across the curriculum. Training within the framework and principles of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC) and the unique London context, you’ll be well equipped to help maximise every child's’ development.

Your time at our partnership school will be supported by school-based mentors and University-linked tutors. The tutors will also deliver your University sessions, ensuring a continuity of support throughout the course.

Overall, the purpose of the course is to develop you into a teacher of the highest quality. One who is reflective, creative, imaginative and responsive to all children’s needs. This approach has led to positive reviews by Ofsted:

"The recent Ofsted online trainee survey now indicates very high confidence rates... trainees are therefore pushed to reach the highest standards."
Ofsted, 2016

Your assessment will consist of four elements:
-School placement A
-School placement B, where your teaching ability will be assessed in relation to the standard for Qualified Teacher Status
-A Professional Practice Portfolio which is compiled throughout the year, detailing personal experiences and reflections on your development as a teacher, largely in relation to your practical teaching experience
-The Educational Research Assignment, which allows you to explore an educational issue

There are no examinations.

This PGCE course is accredited by the National College for Teaching and Leadership (NCTL).

What our students say

“I really enjoyed my course at London Metropolitan University. There was a lot to learn, but the support and guidance from my tutor and mentors was excellent throughout. By the end of the course I really felt prepared to take on my first mainstream teaching assignment. The tutors and lecturers helped me set the right goals for my development as a teacher as well as giving me the tools to succeed. I had two great school placements arranged by the University and I feel these were key to building my confidence. I was really happy to be offered a job by one of these schools – my PGCE year couldn’t have ended better.”

Maira Rodrigues, London Met trainee and Year 4 teacher at Lloyd Williamson Primary School, Kensington.

After the course

This intensive PGCE leads to a Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) and enables you to teach either 3 to 7-year-olds and 5 to 11-year-olds. Our students have gone on to become teachers at Ambler Primary, Cleveland Road Primary School, New North Academy and many more.

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