Early Childhood Education and Care: Leadership and Management HND

Designed with a strong emphasis on employer engagement and work readiness, the Higher National Diploma (HND) Early Childhood Education and Care course reflects the increasing demand for highly qualified practitioners working in the Early Years Sector.<br/>Studying with NTU at Mansfield, you’ll enhance your knowledge, skills and behaviours to improve the quality of learning and development in your setting. You’ll become a proactive and influential Early Years practitioner – advocating play-based learning and supporting others to develop your own practice.<br/>The HND Early Childhood Education and Care course is designed for those working or aspiring to work with and caring for children from 0–5 years, with knowledge of 5–8 years. The course is suitable for those already working in, or aspiring to work in Early Years childcare, with responsibility for leading other practitioners or groups who hold a Level 3 qualification in Early Years.<br/>In year one, youll undertake stimulating learning required by all early childhood practitioners in the Level 4 Higher National Certificate (HNC). In year two, youll build on this through the Level 5 Higher National Diploma (HND) with specialist modules relating to the leadership and management pathway.<br/><br/>Level 4 modules:<br/>• Personal and Professional Development through Reflective Practice (15 credit points)<br/>• Protecting Children in Early Education and Care Environments (15 credit points)<br/>• Play and Learning in Early Childhood (15 credit points)<br/>• Supporting and Promoting Childrens Development (Infants and Toddlers) (15 credit points)<br/>• Supporting and Promoting Childrens Development (Young Children) (15 credit points)<br/>• Promoting Healthy Living (15 credit points)<br/>• Preparing for Research (15 credit points)<br/>• Promoting Inclusive Early Education and Care Environments (15 credit points)<br/><br/>Level 5 modules:<br/>• Investigating Childhood: Action Research for early Childhood Practitioners (30 credit points)<br/>• Improving Quality in Early Education and Care Environments (15 credit points)<br/>• Current and Emerging Pedagogies in Early Childhood Education and Care (15 credit points)<br/>• Advanced Practice in Safeguarding and Child Protection for the Early Childhood Practitioner (15 credit points)<br/>• Managing and Leading People in Children’s Early Education and Care Environments (15 credit points)<br/>• Managing Children’s Early Education and Care Environments (15 credit points)<br/>• Mentoring and Supervision in Early Childhood Education and Care Practice (15 credit points)

Nottingham Trent University (NTU) is a university like no other – their combination of world-class facilities, quality teaching, award-winning student support and a buzzing student community provides a student experience like no other. <br/><br/>Ranked 2nd in the UK for Student Life (University Compare 2025), NTU is a place that everyone can call home. Artisanal chefs can perfect their choux buns in industry-standard kitchens, athletes can test their skills at local sports clubs & major stadiums, and lawyers can build up their confidence in the mock courtroom. With over 130 clubs and societies to choose from, you'll also have the chance to try out new activities and meet people from across the globe.<br/><br/>NTU is based in the Midlands, the cheapest region to live as a student in England (National Student Money Survey 2023). With over 60,000 students, it’s compact, friendly, and well-located, and offers amazing experiences, life-changing opportunities, and a unique spirit. <br/><br/>Start your NTU journey this September with guaranteed accommodation (T&C's apply). Ranked a UK Top 10 university for accommodation (Uni Compare 2025). <br/><br/>"Coming here was the best decision I ever made; the course is fantastic, everything has been really easy, and I honestly couldn't see myself anywhere else now."<br/>Katie Hewiston, BA (Hons) Fashion Management