Early Childhood Education and Care (HNC)

Why this course?

• Gain specialist skills for future employment
• Practical-based learning through vocational, academic and practical skills
• Ranked top 3 modern university in London (Complete University Guide 2025)

About this course

This Higher National Certificate helps you gain key skills needed to start a career within the early education and care sector, and on completion, consider progression to a Higher National Diploma here at Roehampton. This University course is approved by the Institute for Apprenticeship and Technical Education.

Roehampton is internationally renowned for its work in early childhood studies. With a team of highly-regarded tutors, who are all experts in their specialisms, you will learn from some of the best in the field.

In addition to your learning, you must undertake a work placement or gain experience in early education and/or care settings – totalling 375 hours. You must also complete a Practical Reflective Evidence Portfolio (PREP), including reflective accounts. They must be completed over the duration of the programme.

Skills

You will enhance your knowledge and skills through evidence-based practice, personal research, self-study, directed study and work-integrated learning and experience.

Career opportunities

The Level 4 Higher National Certificate provides a solid grounding in early education and care practice.

You may choose to progress to the Early Childhood Education and Care HND and commit to a specialist specific career path or on completion, progress to degree-level study.

The skills and knowledge you gain from completing the Diploma will put you in a strong position for pursuing jobs in a variety of Early Years settings.

Our careers team is available to support you from the start of your studies until after you graduate. They will help you build your CV, prepare for interviews, and meet and learn from successful graduates working at the top of their careers.

You’ll also have opportunities to work with our partners across London and beyond, and to attend a Roehampton jobs fair where you can find out about graduate opportunities and meet employers.

Roehampton offers something genuinely distinctive: a supportive campus community in Southwest London, combined with the opportunities of one of the world's great cities. It's the perfect balance, giving you access to exciting career opportunities, world-class culture and industry connections, alongside a real sense of belonging.

Students choose from a wide range of undergraduate subjects, taught by expert academics with real-world experience built in. With a thriving Students' Union, competitive sport and a campus that feels like home, there's a rich life beyond the lecture hall too.

Live where everything happens. With on-campus halls, affordable prices and bills included, you’ll enjoy a hassle-free place to call your own - while stepping straight into a friendly, ready-made community. Plus, Roehampton is ranked the best-value student accommodation in London (Monzo), so you get more for your money.

With generous scholarships, bursaries, and a dedicated commuting bursary, Roehampton is committed to making sure finance is never a barrier. Whatever your background or responsibilities, Roehampton is designed to help you thrive.