Early Years Education

Early years education examines the period from birth to around eight years old as one of the most significant phases of human development. What happens in those first years, in terms of relationships, language, play, cognitive development and emotional security, shapes the trajectory of a child's life in ways that are increasingly well understood by research. Studying this field means engaging with those insights and developing the professional knowledge and reflective practice to work effectively with young children and their families.

At the University of Winchester this three-year full-time programme is designed to prepare graduates for a range of professional roles in early years settings and beyond. You will draw on multiple disciplines, including education, social policy, disability studies, philosophy, health and psychology, to develop a broad and critical understanding of early childhood. The degree builds your knowledge of current research, policy and practice in the early years sector, and it develops you as a reflective professional who can evaluate your own practice and adapt to the needs of diverse children and families.

You may work towards becoming an Early Childhood Graduate Practitioner, a role recognised within the sector, or you may progress to teaching, further study or other graduate careers related to working with young children.

Graduates work as early years practitioners, nursery managers, children's centre workers, family support workers, teaching assistants and in related roles across the early years and childcare sector. Many progress to postgraduate study in education, social work, psychology or early childhood, and the degree provides a strong foundation for a professional career dedicated to young children's wellbeing and development.