Early Years Courses

Why choose Early Years, UWTSD

“There is widespread agreement that early childhood experiences are crucially important for children’s long-term development and their achievements in later life. As a consequence, the early years are the foundation on which society depends for its future prosperity and progress” (Welsh Government 2016).

Our Early Years Programmes deliver a comprehensive approach to the needs of children, recognising the enormous potential of children given the right opportunities to thrive and develop.  You will have a role to play in the further development of early year’s education and care, taking the knowledge and skills gained from undertaking this exciting degree out into your chosen professional role on graduation.

We focus on your development as early years professionals and will prepare you for a fulfilling and exciting career, positively influencing the lives of children that you will work with whilst as a student practitioner and when you graduate with either a BA (Hons) Early Years Education and Care: Early Years Practitioner Status or a BA (Hons) and Early Years Education and Care. 

Alongside academic study, you will have the opportunity to apply theory to practice whilst in placement thus creating a strong link between theories of health, wellbeing, education and development and opportunities to develop your practical skills and abilities.  We offer a range of additional qualifications to enhance your skills and knowledge including a recognised safeguarding qualification, first aid and working with families. We also have a week of short courses aimed at enhancing your employability upon graduation.

The degree programmes will prepare you to become a reflective practitioner, a leader, an innovator and create a solid foundation for you to enter into a profession with the right skills to ensure that you deliver effective care whichever pathway you decide to follow. 

Flexible evening delivery

We also offer a flexible two-year full-time evening programme at Cardiff, a two-year fast-track flexible programme (at Swansea and Carmarthen) alongside our more traditional three-year daytime route.

The assessments included in the programmes are linked to practice and include presentations, planning activities, posters and briefing papers. Exams do not form a part of our assessment structure. 

The National Student Survey, NSS shows that our students highly rate the relationship with staff and lecturers. We were the best performing school for the University in 2016  and lead the sector across Wales for student satisfaction.

The early years are foundational to the achievements and prospects of children as they grow and develop. Come and be a part of this amazing journey!