Early Childhood and Primary Education BA (Hons)

This module introduces you to the historical and contemporary landscape of childhood education, focusing on key educational theories, practices, and systems. It will explore how education has evolved from ancient times to the present day, and how different societal, political, and cultural factors have influenced its development. Students will engage with issues such as equality of access to education, the function of the state, the role of women and the changing aims and values of education.

This module introduces students to the fundamental role of play in human creativity, learning, and development across the lifespan. By examining key theories, concepts, and practices surrounding play, students will explore how playful activities stimulate cognitive, emotional, and social growth. The module aims to empower students to appreciate and apply the dynamics of play in both educational and professional contexts, emphasising its interdisciplinary relevance in fostering innovation, problem-solving, and collaboration.

This module introduces students to the multifaceted nature of child development and education, exploring cognitive, emotional, social, and physical domains. Students will engage with key theoretical frameworks and critically analyse how various environmental and cultural factors shape children's growth. The module encourages a holistic approach, examining the interrelationship between different developmental aspects from birth to early adolescence. By unveiling the complexities of childhood, students will gain a foundational understanding to support future studies in education, psychology, social work, and related disciplines.

This module provides students with the opportunity to engage in a professional placement focused on child-centred practice. Students will develop practical skills, reflective abilities, and a deeper understanding of how to support children's holistic development. The placement experience aims to enhance students' capacity to work with children in diverse settings, emphasising child welfare, rights, and inclusive practices.

This module enables students with A-Level German or equivalent to further develop their grammar, vocabulary and expression and apply these to real world situations.You will work with written and recorded texts on a range of cultural, personal and social topics and will develop your oral and written communication skills at Post-A level.

This module is designed for students that have completed A-Level or equivalent in French. You will further develop your grammar, vocabulary and expression and apply these to real world situations. You will work with written and recorded texts on a range of cultural, personal and social topics and will develop your oral and written communication skills at Post-A level.

This module is designed for students that have completed a A-Level or equivalent in Spanish. You will further develop your grammar, vocabulary and expression and apply these to real world situations. You will work with written and recorded texts on a range of cultural, personal and social topics and will develop oral and written communication skills at Post-A level.

This module is designed for students who have completed GCSE in Chinese or equivalent. You will further develop your grammar, vocabulary and learning conventions for spelling and pronunciation. You will work with written and recorded texts on a range of cultural, personal and social topics and will develop oral and written communication skills at an intermediate level.

This module is designed for students who have completed GCSE or equivalent in French. You will further develop your grammar, vocabulary and learning conventions for spelling and pronunciation. You will work with written and recorded texts on a range of cultural, personal and social topics and will develop oral and written communication skills at an intermediate level.

This module is designed for students that have completed GCSE or equivalent in Spanish. You will further develop your grammar, vocabulary and learning conventions for spelling and pronunciation. You will work with written and recorded texts on a range of cultural, personal and social topics and will develop oral and written communication skills at an intermediate level.

This module provides the opportunity to study a new language from scratch and introduces you to basic grammar, vocabulary and cultural contexts. You will apply the language to practical situations using both oral and written skills. 

This module aims to develop an understanding of how children acquire and develop key skills i communication, language, literacy and mathematics. It explores theoretical perspectives, pedagogical approaches and practical strategies to foster a lifelong love of language and numeracy. The module will examine the role of educators, parents, and wider society in shaping children's experiences with communication, reading, writing and mathematics.

This module will develop your knowledge of research methods, as appropriate to education, and how they are applied in the field. The module will engage students in reflections and support the development of student inquiry. The module will support you to engage in the processes necessary to write an academic research proposal for consideration and adaptation at Level 6.

This module aims to deepen students’ understanding of the role of health and wellbeing in primary education. It examines the connection between physical and mental health and children’s academic, social, and emotional development within the primary school setting. The module encourages future educators to adopt a holistic approach, addressing the physical, emotional, and social needs of children to support their health and overall wellbeing.

This module explores the health and wellbeing of children from conception to 8 years of age. The module critically examines current agendas and policy drivers, equipping students with the knowledge to address challenges and promote healthy lifestyles and inclusive practices. The module prepares students to support the wellbeing of children and their families in diverse professional contexts.

This module focuses on the central role of effective communication in the development of positive relationships with primary age children, with their parents, with colleagues in the workplace and with other professionals and agencies.

You will examine the importance of respectful partnerships with parents/caregivers and explore the ways in which practitioners and parents/caregivers can work together to support the learning and development of primary age children. You will also consider the importance of working as a member of a team and in multi professional contexts and investigate the barriers to successful teamwork and how to address these in the workplace.  The role of the leader in educational settings will also be explored.

This module focuses on the central role of effective communication in the development of positive relationships with young children, with their parents, with colleagues in the workplace and with other professionals and agencies.

You will examine the importance of respectful partnerships with parents/caregivers and explore the ways in which practitioners and parents/caregivers can work together to support the learning and development of young children. You will also consider the importance of working as a member of a team and in multi professional contexts and investigate the barriers to successful teamwork and how to address these in the workplace.  The role of the leader in early childhood settings will also be explored.

This module provides students with the opportunity to engage with professional practice in the children, young people, and families sector. Through placement experiences, students will develop and apply key skills in practical settings. The module emphasises the transferability of these skills, enabling students to adapt them to a range of roles and professional environments. By focusing on skill development and consistent practice, the module helps students build a solid foundation for a wide range of future careers.

The module will provide the opportunity to further develop your language skills, building on your previous learning at advanced level. The second half of the module includes a placement abroad or, alternatively, a project on a sustainability issue in a target language country. The first half of the module will prepare you for placements abroad where appropriate as well as a deeper understanding of sustainability in target language contexts. Students of more than one language may take one language in the first half of the module and spend their time abroad developing a different language. 

The module will provide the opportunity to further develop your language skills, building on your previous learning at intermediate level. The first half of the module includes intensive taught sessions in interactive workshop mode which will prepare you for placements abroad or self-directed language development. The second half of the module includes an placement abroad or, alternatively, a project on a business or tourism issue in a target language country. Students of more than one language may take one language in the first half of the module and spend their time abroad developing a different language. 

The module will provide the opportunity to further develop your language skills, building on your previous learning at beginner level. The first half of the module includes intensive taught sessions in interactive workshop mode which will prepare you for placements abroad or self-directed language development. The second half of the module includes a placement abroad or, alternatively, a project on a cultural issue in a target language country. Students of more than one language may take one language in the first half of the module and spend their time abroad developing a different language. 

• The multiple facets of global citizenship
• Ethical engagement and practice
• The United Nations Sustainable Development Goals
• Cross-cultural issues and sensitivity
• Intercultural communication
• Culture shock
• Cultural adjustment
• Self- assessment of needs: identification of the range of transferable skills, competencies and attitudes employees need and employers expect graduates to possess-with a strong focus on understanding the intercultural competencies (ICC) needed to live and work abroad.
• Critical analysis/evaluation of individual requirements in relation to culture/cultural adjustment/culture shock/visas/medical.
• Critical analysis/evaluation of skills already acquired in relation to key skills related to ICC.
• Devising strategies to improve one’s own prospects of working abroad in the future.
• Devising an action plan to address gaps in transferable skills based on organisational analysis and sector opportunities.

Part A:      

Preparation for Experiential Overseas Learning will take place at the University of Chester during level 5 and will include:  

• The multiple facets of Global citizenship
• Ethical engagement and practice
• Cross-cultural issues and sensitivity
• Intercultural communication

Theories, models and strategies of learning

• Theories and models Intercultural competence
• Theories and models of Integration and Multiculturalism
• Critical thinking skills and models of Reflection

• Experiential learning models
• Self-directed experiential learning

Personal and placement-related skills

• Enhanced independence
• Improved command of multicultural behaviour
• Increased knowledge and confidence in their individual facets of personal identity
• Effective time management and organisational skills
• Project management – working away from University and independent study
• Self-management and personal development
• Team building and team work

Part B:            Overseas

Students will engage in experiential learning activities overseas for at least 150 hours 

Preparation for the year abroad will take place in Chester during level 5 and will include:

• Cross-cultural issues and sensitivity
• Host-country orientation, study methods– economic, political and social reality of the country
• Orientation specific to exchange – health, education, gender issues
• The United Nations Sustainable Development Goals
• Practical matters relating to living and studying in the wider world

Theories, models and strategies of learning

• Critical thinking skills, experiential learning and models of reflection

Personal and placement-related transversal skills

• Effective self-motivation and independent resourcefulness
• Effective time management and organisational skills
• Project management – working away from University and independent study
• Self-management and personal development

Whilst abroad:

You will undertake study at one of the University of Chester's partner universities or undertake and approved work placement or virtual placement. If you are a student,  it is expected that you will choose a series of modules at the university abroad which must be agreed by the host institution and the Module Leader. you must supply details of you modules on a learning agreement within 4 weeks of arrival at the host university.

This module critically explores contemporary issues and debates in early childhood and primary education, equipping you with an in-depth understanding of current policies, pedagogical practices, and challenges within these fields. Drawing on interdisciplinary perspectives, the module will challenge you to engage with key societal, cultural, and political factors influencing education today. Topics include equity and inclusion, early years pedagogy, the role of technology, the impact of policy reforms, and the evolving expectations of educators in a global context. Through critical reflection, students will analyse how these debates shape both educational theory and practice in the UK and internationally.

This module explores social equality for children and families, focusing on how inequalities manifest and impact children (0-11 years) from marginalised communities. It examines the social, cultural, political, and economic forces that shape children's experiences, opportunities and their understanding of diversity, including the development of social norms and biases. Using a critical lens, the module explores policy, practice, and theory surrounding diversity, inclusion, and equity. The aim is to equip students with the knowledge and tools to challenge inequality and foster environments that promote equality for all children, regardless of their background.

The Critical Explorers: Research into Practice module provides you as a final-year student, with the opportunity to undertake an independent research project, investigating a topic of your choice related to education, children, young people and/or families and communities. This module is designed to develop your skills in critical thinking, research design, and reflective practice, preparing you for professional roles in your chosen sector or further academic study.

This module aims to bridge the gap between academic study and professional practice in children and young people’s settings, equipping you with the skills, knowledge, and critical thinking needed for a successful transition into an appropriate career. The module focuses on reflective practice, professional development, and the application of theoretical knowledge in real-world settings. It encourages you to explore their professional identity and role within the sector, considering the complex social, cultural, and policy-related factors that influence practice.

The primary aim of this module is to engage students in critical exploration and reimagination of learning and teaching practices in primary education. Students will examine innovative approaches that challenge traditional pedagogical methods, focusing on creativity, inclusivity, and the integration of technology. The module aims to empower students to envision new possibilities for the primary classroom, grounded in contemporary research, policy developments, and real-world challenges.

This module is designed to explore the essential principles that underpin early childhood education and care. It examines the critical role of early experiences in shaping lifelong development, emphasizing theoretical, practical, and ethical considerations. Students will critically analyse foundational theories, explore contemporary issues, and apply principles in real-world early childhood contexts.

This pathway offers you a unique opportunity to specialise in in the field of early childhood. The pathway is designed for those who are passionate about understanding the complexities of early years development and education, providing an in-depth exploration of modules that focus on the foundations of early learning, holistic child development, and the social, cultural, and policy contexts that shape early childhood education. 

 On this pathway you  will engage with contemporary issues and debates within modules which integrate practical and theoretical learning ensuring students develop both the academic knowledge and professional skills required to support and advocate for young children and their families.

With opportunities for placements, independent study, classroom discussion and reflective practice, the pathway ensures that you are well  for careers in the field of early childhood, equipping them with the confidence and expertise to make a meaningful impact on the lives of children. This specialisation provides a focused yet holistic approach to studying early childhood, ensuring that as a  graduate yo  are well-prepared for both professional and academic progression.

This pathway offers an engaging opportunity to explore in-depth the field of primary education. Through an array of modules, you will explore the contemporary practices and approaches that shape primary education today. Designed for individuals passionate about making a difference in children's learning, this pathway provides a rich understanding of the primary education sector.

As a graduates from this pathway, you  will emerge with a robust knowledge base and transferable skills, leading to careers in educational support, educational research, or further study in postgraduate teacher training or education related fields.