Early Childhood Development and Learning

Success in this field demands a combination of creativity, empathy, logical thinking and extensive knowledge, coupled with the capacity to draw upon personal life experiences. Given the dynamic nature of this industry, this course emphasises the exploration of policies, procedures, exemplary approaches and hands-on learning to provide a comprehensive understanding of the fundamental aspects of child development.

As a successful graduate of this course you will meet the Graduate Practitioner Competencies which are considered full and relevant training by the UK Department for Education standards.

Why you should study this course


- an opportunity to take part in invaluable practical placements2,5 (if taking the Graduate Practitioner route).


- an additional option to work towards obtaining Early Childhood Graduate Practitioner status*


- to undertake an investigation into a topic relating to early childhood enabling you to make informed recommendations for future policy, research and practice


- to draw on your own personal experience and make links between your study at studies, your personal experience and your professional practice in the field of early childhood


- to explore a range of international perspectives on early childhood, which you can apply to your own research area.


- opportunities to engage with students at other international universities and industry experts through initiatives like our Collaborative Online International Learning (COIL) project2.


- opportunities to conduct critical research with our highly experienced staff.


For the most up-to-date information about course modules, sandwich years or part-time learning, please visit our website.

Coventry University, part of Coventry University Group, is a modern, globally connected university with a mission to create better futures. Founded in 1843 through innovation and enterprise, they continue to work closely with industry to equip their graduates with the real-world skills and creative thinking they need to make a difference.

Coventry is also a Top 5 Student City in England (QS Best Student Cities Index 2026), and they guarantee accommodation if you apply through Clearing. With campuses across Coventry, London, Scarborough, Dagenham, and Greenwich, you can choose to study where it suits you best.

They're rated overall Gold in TEF 2023, recognising the quality of their teaching and student experience. From academic and wellbeing support to their Phoenix+ programme of employability activities and dedicated Success Coaches, they’re with you every step of the way.