Early Years Education and Care (with Graduate Practitioner Competencies) BA (Hons)

3 Years Part Time Bachelors Program

York St John University

Program Overview

The BA (Hons) in Early Years Education and Care (with Graduate Practitioner Competencies) at York St John University is designed to prepare students for a professional career in early years settings, focusing on children from birth to five years. It combines academic study with practical placements to develop both theoretical understanding and hands-on skills, ensuring graduates meet professional competencies for early years practice.

Curriculum Structure

Year 1

In the first year, students gain a strong foundation in child development, safeguarding, and professional responsibilities. Modules cover early learning theories, communication and interaction with young children, and introduction to the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) curriculum. Students undertake initial placements in early years settings to apply classroom knowledge to practical care and teaching experiences.

Year 2

The second year builds on knowledge of inclusive practice, special educational needs, and strategies to support all learners in early years settings. Students explore play-based learning, creative pedagogy, and the use of assessment to monitor child development. Placements become more immersive, giving students the opportunity to lead learning activities and develop practical competencies aligned with the Graduate Practitioner Standards.

Year 3

In the final year, students focus on independent practice, leadership, and research-informed approaches in early years education. Modules include advanced child development, leadership and management in early years settings, and evaluating practice using evidence-based approaches. Students complete extended placements where they assume significant responsibility for planning, delivering, and evaluating activities, culminating in a major research project or dissertation that reflects professional practice.

Focus areas

Early Years Foundation Stage pedagogy; child development; play-based learning; inclusion and SEND; professional responsibilities; assessment and observation; leadership in early years settings; reflective practice; research-informed teaching.

Learning outcomes

Graduates will be able to plan and deliver effective learning experiences for children under five, apply professional standards and competencies, assess and monitor developmental progress, manage early years environments confidently, and reflect on practice to improve outcomes.

Professional alignment (accreditation)

The programme equips students with Graduate Practitioner Competencies recognized in early years professional practice, ensuring readiness for a career in early childhood education and care.

Reputation (employability rankings)

York St John University maintains strong partnerships with early years settings, providing immersive placements that enhance employability. Graduates are highly regarded for their practical skills, leadership potential, and ability to work effectively in diverse early years contexts.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

Students on this programme gain extensive hands-on experience that combines academic study with professional practice in early-years settings. University-based learning builds a strong foundation in child development, safeguarding, inclusion, and early-years pedagogy, while structured placements immerse students in real-world environments such as nurseries, pre-schools, and community groups.

Specifically:

Assessed Placements: Each year includes structured placements, increasing in complexity and responsibility across different early-years environments.
Professional Skills: Students practice working with infants and young children, observing and assessing development, supporting wellbeing, and engaging in inclusive care and education practices.
Small-Group Workshops: Learning is delivered through lectures, seminars, and workshops that encourage collaboration, reflection, and peer learning.
Graduate Practitioner Competencies: The programme ensures students develop professional-level skills aligned with sector standards, combining theory, research, and practical practice.
Variety of Learning Environments: Students gain exposure to diverse settings, including forest schools, Montessori classrooms, and community-based early-years centres.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates of the Early Years Education and Care BA (Hons) programme are equipped to work confidently in a range of early childhood settings, supported by practical placements and a focus on professional competencies. Employers value their ability to combine theoretical knowledge with hands-on practice, preparing them for diverse roles in childcare and early education. Many graduates progress into positions that allow them to support, lead, and innovate in early years provision.

Typical career paths include:
• Early Years Practitioner or Lead Practitioner
• Nursery or Preschool Manager
• Learning and Development Coordinator
• Early Childhood Specialist

Additional opportunities and support for graduates include:
• Access to the university’s Careers, Placements & Student Opportunities team, providing tailored advice for early years careers, CV building, and interview preparation.
• High employability rates, with many graduates securing roles in nurseries, preschools, and childcare settings due to integrated work-based learning.
• Partnerships with local nurseries, early learning centres, and children’s services, enabling students to build professional networks and gain credible references.
• Long-term accreditation and professional recognition through Graduate Practitioner Competencies, supporting career progression in early years leadership.
• Positive graduate outcomes, reflecting readiness to lead learning activities, manage teams, and apply early childhood pedagogy effectively.

Further Academic Progression:

Graduates can pursue advanced qualifications such as a PGCE in Early Years or Primary Education, a Master’s in Early Childhood Education, or leadership-focused programmes for nursery and childcare management. Opportunities also exist for specialist training in areas like special educational needs, inclusion, and early years curriculum development.