This foundation year course is perfect for those who want a degree in Early Childhood Studies, Special Needs, and Education Studies but don't have the standard entry requirements for direct entry to one of these programmes. We believe that each student is unique and that you come to us with a wealth of experiences that can be transferrable during your studies. Both our course options will give you a fascinating insight into the way children experience their childhoods and how that experience influences them as they develop. You'll look at childhood from a range of different critical perspectives and explore the factors that influence the childhood experience. You'll examine issues such as health, early-years legislation, and global inequalities in childhood. You'll have the opportunity to work on projects in the local community, applying your developing knowledge by devising practical solutions to real-life problems.Early childhood studies introduces you to a range of perspectives on early childhood development and learning across a variety of contexts. This course offers a theoretical understanding of issues and controversies within the early childhood field.Those wishing to work as a practitioner in an early years setting will need a level 3 practitioner qualification as well as their academic degree once they graduate. You could move into several careers or further study in social work, education, and children's services.