BA Hons Early Childhood Studies

3 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

London Metropolitan University

Program Overview

The BA (Hons) Early Childhood Studies at London Metropolitan University is a three-year degree that explores how young children grow, learn, and interact with the world around them. It’s perfect for anyone passionate about child development, play, inclusion, and the importance of education in shaping early life experiences.

Curriculum Structure

Year 1:
In your first year, you’ll gain a strong foundation in early childhood theory and practice. Modules include Creative Representation through Play, Emerging Professional Identity, Exploring Perspectives on Children’s Development, Rocking the Crib, and Safeguarding, Health & Wellbeing. You’ll learn how play and creativity influence children’s development while developing your understanding of professional roles and responsibilities in early years settings.

Year 2:
This year builds on your understanding of equality, policy, and social issues in early education. You’ll study Challenging Inequalities, Social Policy & Advocacy, Disrupting Narratives: Social Pedagogy in Early Childhood, Oral Stories & Literacy, Special Educational Needs, Disability & Inclusion, and Sustainability in Early Childhood Communities. A professional placement module gives you hands-on experience and helps you apply your learning in real-world contexts.

Year 3:
Your final year focuses on leadership, research, and international perspectives in early education. Modules include Early Childhood Studies Project, Establishing Professional Identity, Leading Professional Practice, and International Perspectives of Children & Childhood. This stage develops your ability to carry out independent research, lead professional practice, and reflect critically on global early childhood issues.

Focus areas:
Child development · Play and creativity · Inclusion and diversity · Early years policy and advocacy · Leadership and research

Learning outcomes:
Graduates will be able to design inclusive learning environments, critically assess policies and practices affecting children and families, conduct independent research, and advocate for children’s wellbeing and rights.

Professional alignment (accreditation):
While the programme does not award Qualified Teacher Status (QTS), it provides an excellent foundation for careers in early years education, childcare management, family support, and community services. Many graduates go on to postgraduate study or teacher training.

Reputation (employability rankings):
London Metropolitan University is highly regarded for its focus on inclusive education and student satisfaction. The Early Childhood Studies course is ranked among the best in London for overall student experience and career preparation in the Childhood and Youth Studies field.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

The BA (Hons) Early Childhood Studies at London Metropolitan University gives you the opportunity to explore how children learn, grow, and interact — while gaining direct experience in early years settings. From your first year, you’ll combine theory with real-world practice, guided by tutors who are experienced professionals in the field. You’ll also develop reflective, research, and teamwork skills that are essential for any career working with children and families.

Here’s how experiential learning is built into your studies:

Professional placement: In your second year, you’ll complete a supervised placement in an early years environment such as a nursery, preschool, or community centre — applying classroom knowledge in real practice.
Applied learning modules: Courses like Play and Creative Representation, Safeguarding and Well-being, and Special Educational Needs and Inclusion give you hands-on experience through projects, observations, and case studies.
Independent research project: In your final year, you’ll carry out an in-depth study on a topic that interests you, combining your placement experience with academic research.
Collaborative workshops and group activities: You’ll take part in group discussions, presentations, and projects that build your confidence, communication, and teamwork skills.
Professional and digital skills development: Through digital platforms, reflective journals, and portfolio work, you’ll learn to document and evaluate your practice effectively — an important skill for early years professionals.
Supportive learning environment: You’ll receive one-to-one academic guidance and feedback throughout your studies, ensuring that you feel confident and supported as you develop professionally.

By the time you graduate, you’ll have both the academic understanding and practical experience needed to work successfully in early years education — ready to make a meaningful impact on the lives of young children and their families.

Progression & Future Opportunities

If you’re passionate about helping young children learn, grow, and reach their full potential, the BA (Hons) Early Childhood Studies at London Metropolitan University offers the perfect balance of theory and hands-on experience. This degree prepares you for a wide range of roles in early years education, childcare, and family support. Graduates often move into careers such as early years practitioner, nursery or preschool manager, family support worker, or early childhood development officer.

Progression & Future Opportunities:

University support: Students benefit from personal academic tutoring, small class sizes, and practical workshops that build professional confidence. London Met’s Careers and Employability Service also offers personalised career advice, placement support, and access to employer networks.
Employment stats and salary figures: Graduates from early childhood and education-related programmes at London Met achieve strong employment outcomes, with most entering relevant work or further study within 15 months of graduation. Typical graduate salaries range from £23,000 to £30,000, depending on the role and experience.
University–industry partnerships: The course includes professional placements that allow you to gain real-world experience in nurseries, children’s centres, and community organisations, helping you build the skills and confidence needed for a successful career.
Long-term accreditation value: The degree is widely recognised within the UK’s early years and education sector, providing a solid foundation for career progression and advanced study.
Graduation outcomes: By graduation, you’ll have a deep understanding of early childhood development, inclusion, play, and education policy, preparing you for both professional roles and further qualifications in teaching or leadership.

Further Academic Progression:
After completing your BA (Hons) Early Childhood Studies, you can continue your studies with a Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE) to become a qualified early years or primary teacher. Alternatively, you could pursue a Master’s in Early Childhood Leadership, Inclusive Education, or Childhood Studies, which can lead to senior roles such as early years manager, education policy advisor, or researcher in child development.