Early Childhood
You’ll investigate early childhood from national and international perspectives with a focus on the central importance of children’s voices and the participatory nature of young children’s experiences. In this diploma, you'll develop your understanding of policy and practice in early childhood.
| Award Name | Diploma of Higher Education at UK Level 5 |
|---|---|
| NFQ Classification | |
| Awarding Body | Open University |
| NFQ Level |
| Award Name | NFQ Classification | Awarding Body | NFQ Level |
|---|---|---|---|
| Diploma of Higher Education at UK Level 5 | Open University |
Duration
How long it takes
Part time – 4 years
Full time – 2 years
Time limit – 8 years
Study method: Distance learning.
How much time do I need?
• Most of our students study part time, completing 60 credits a year.
• This will usually mean studying for 16–18 hours a week.
Entry Requirements
There are no formal entry requirements to study this qualification.
You do not need to be working with young children in order to study this qualification; however to enhance your learning in core practice-focused modules, it is strongly recommended that students gain direct experience with young children (birth to 7 years). Students not working with young children (employed or in a voluntary capacity) will need to negotiate opportunities to gain such practical experience.
It is your responsibility and that of your employer – not the OU’s - to ensure the necessary Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check (or equivalent if not working in England) required for the setting and country in which you’re working is obtained and that you meet the ‘fit person’ criteria for work with young children. If you are in any doubt about your eligibility, or to find out more, contact the relevant agency in your country.
Careers / Further progression
Career relevance
This DipHE is relevant for existing early years practitioners (normally with a Level 3 early years qualification) or those interested in finding out more about young children’s learning and development. It provides a foundation for entry to a range of careers working with and for young children and their families. It is also suitable for those wanting to move into careers in teaching, health or social work.
Please note:
In England, this course does not provide Early Years Teacher Status (EYTS) or Qualified Teacher Status (QTS). GCSE passes at Grade 4 (C) or above in English and Maths are normally required for postgraduate study, and for teaching, a GCSE Grade 4 (C) pass in Science is also a requirement.
England only: please note that if you do not already have a Level 3 early years qualification when you begin studying this diploma, this course is not deemed ‘full and relevant’ to enable you to count in the staff:child ratios at Level 3.
In Scotland, this qualification does not lead to Scottish Social Services Council (SSSC) registration. However, if you’ve already achieved SSSC registration through related qualifications, such as HNC Childhood Practice, you might be able to transfer credit to this qualification. GCSE passes at Grade 4 (C) or above in English and Maths are normally required for postgraduate study, and for teaching, a GCSE Grade 4 (C) pass in Science is also a requirement.
Further information about Early Childhood qualifications can be found:
• For England, on the Department for Education (DfE) website.
• For Wales, on the Care Council Wales (CCW) website.
• For Scotland on the Scottish Social Services Council (SSSC) website.
• For Northern Ireland, on the Department of Education (DENI) website.
This diploma qualification may also be helpful if you’re interested in further training of Early Years Initial Teacher Training (Early Years Teacher Status – birth to 5) or postgraduate qualifications in primary teaching with Qualified Teacher Status (QTS). However, we cannot guarantee automatic progression to ITE training programmes. Check with your local ITE training provider about their entry policy. For up-to-date information, visit the Department for Education website in England; the Teach in Scotland website in Scotland; the Department of Education in Northern Ireland; and the Teacher Training & Education in Wales website.
Other careers
Many graduate-level jobs are open to graduates of any discipline, particularly in business, finance, management consultancy and the public sector. Some careers may require further study, training and/or work experience beyond your degree.
Exploring your options: see 'Course Web Page' link below for further information.
Further information
Register for this course.
Start dates
• October 2024: Registration closes 05/09/2024
• Credit transfer: apply by 08/08/2024
Diploma of Higher Education in Early Childhood
If you currently work with children from birth to seven years, or are looking to learn more about young children’s lives and experiences, this diploma could be of interest to you. You’ll investigate early childhood from national and international perspectives with a focus on the central importance of children’s voices and the participatory nature of young children’s experiences. In this diploma, you'll develop your understanding of policy and practice in early childhood. It will help prepare you for further study and gives you a foundation for careers working with young children and their families across all sectors.
Key features of the course
• Takes a holistic approach to understanding early childhood in diverse contexts.
• Covers young children’s play and creativity within the context of the family and early childhood settings.
• Encourages critical understanding and reflection on contemporary issues and debates in early childhood.
• Enhances employability and provides a solid foundation for further study.
This diploma of higher education is also equivalent to the first two thirds of the BA (Honours) Early Childhood (Q89).
This qualification has two stages, each comprising 120 credits.
• You’ll start Stage 1 with two modules that explore how children learn; and the importance of children’s play.
• Then, in Stage 2, you’ll study a module that further develops and broadens your knowledge and understanding of young children’s lives and learning, followed by one from a list of options.
See 'Course Web Page' link below for more information on modules.
Learning outcomes, teaching and assessment
This qualification develops your learning in four main areas:
• Knowledge and understanding.
• Cognitive skills.
• Practical and professional skills.
• Key skills.
The level and depth of your learning gradually increases as you work through the qualification. You’ll be supported throughout by the OU’s unique style of teaching and assessment – which includes a personal tutor to guide and comment on your work; top quality course texts; elearning resources like podcasts, interactive media and online materials; tutorial groups and community forums.
Tel: +353 1 678 5399
Our advisers are available to take your call Monday to Friday from 08:30 to 17:00, excluding public holidays.