Course Overview

The Early Childhood Practice program offers a comprehensive three-year journey that combines theoretical understanding with practical experiences to prepare students for a rewarding career in the field. In the first year, students embark on a foundational exploration of their own educational experiences and their impact on early childhood practice. Engaging with critical theorists and expert practitioners, students delve into the fields of education, care, and family support. The focus is on equipping students with the knowledge and skills to promote children's well-being in the 21st century. The curriculum emphasizes fostering children's exploration of identity, values, and voice, along with supporting play, learning, and development. The first year also includes a 25-day placement in early childhood settings for hands-on observation of curriculum practices. Moving into the second year, students build a critical understanding of the knowledge and skills required to support children's learning and development in various practice settings. This phase introduces opportunities for international study, offering students a global perspective on working with young children. The curriculum underscores the celebration of differences, inclusion, and diversity in early childhood practice. Students learn to design stimulating learning environments, observe children in play and learning, and develop effective interventions. The second year includes a 30-day placement for further practical experience. In the third and final year, the focus shifts to enhancing and consolidating personal practice through the exploration of areas of personal interest. Students become advocates for children, investigating concepts such as children's rights, cultural influences, and political and economic factors. The curriculum emphasizes developing effective partnerships with child development professionals, parents, families, and communities. Students specialize in an area of early childhood and engage in an independent research project to improve their practice. The year concludes with a 25-day placement, providing additional opportunities for hands-on learning.