Norland

Norland offers a distinct specialised BA (Hons) in Early Years Development and Learning alongside the Norland Diploma.

Norland students follow three-year full-time early years vocational programme that uniquely blends undergraduate degree level study with practical training and experience, enabling students to apply their theoretical learning to practice.

The degree programme draws on approaches from many disciplines including psychology, neuroscience, child health, philosophy, social sciences and education. Running alongside the degree, and for a fourth year following completion of the degree, is the prestigious Norland Diploma, which prepares students for the practical aspects of the care and development of children in the early years.

Each year is divided into three trimesters with at least six placements throughout the duration of the course. Students undertake placements in a variety of early years settings, including nursery, school, hospital, special needs school settings and as a daily and live-in nanny.

Students complete a dissertation in their final year, on an early years topic of their choice. Alongside practical placements, Norland uses assessment methods such as essays, presentations, timed essays, annotated bibliographies, exams, portfolios and work-based projects.

After three years at Norland, students take part in their final module – the Newly Qualified Nanny (NQN) year – in order to gain the Norland Diploma. This is a probationary 12-month paid nanny placement with a family, during which students are fully supported and assessed by Norland as they develop their knowledge of practical nanny work.

Once students have successfully completed their degree and each element of the Norland Diploma, they are able to use the professional title ‘Norland Nanny’ or ‘Norlander’.

Find out what it’s really like studying at Norland by speaking to current students.