A number of our degrees are also offered with an additional foundation year (Year 0). Whether you are a school-leaver or someone considering returning to study but don’t have the entry requirements for your chosen subject, a foundation year course may be just what you’re looking for.A foundation year is the first year of a four year programme which:•provides an introduction not only to study at University but also to your chosen subject•offers you a highly supportive environment where you can develop the self-confidence, knowledge, skills and understanding for further study.Our foundation year option enables you to join the BA Early Childhood Studies course even if you don’t have the formal qualifications or experience to meet the standard entry requirements.The development and growth of children during their early childhood is extraordinary as they grow from babies, completely dependent on care, to children able to act for themselves.This course explores the extraordinary time in children's lives from before birth to approximately eight years old. We examine the factors and experiences that shape their early development and growth. We look at early childhood from a range of perspectives - including psychology, education, health, sociology, law and science - so that you will be well placed to act as an advocate for young children within a range of professional disciplines upon graduation.As part of the course our students are offered opportunities to consider cultural differences in early childhood development. They are also offered practice-based experiences so they can observe in practice how professionals can impact on how young children develop and grow.

Faculty of Education