Features

Training Today: Degrees - Graduate hall

New competencies to benchmark Early Childhood Studies degree qualifications will be launched in September. Dr Eunice Lumsden offers an exclusive preview

Download the pdf of this article

It is 25 years since the first Early Childhood Studies degrees were introduced and the Early Childhood Studies Degrees Network (ECSDN) was launched. The degree was aimed at providing higher-level study opportunities for those working in the early childhood education and care sector. Since this time the number of degrees has grown enormously, and early childhood is now firmly established as an inter-disciplinary academic subject that covers the period from conception to the age of eight.

eunice-lumsdenThe need for highly qualified graduate early childhood practitioners is as relevant today as it was in the early 1990s. However, there are currently no practitioner competencies at graduate level. There is also some confusion in the Early Childhood sector about the level ECS graduates should be employed at and the practice skills they should have. This is reportedly presenting some challenges for employers and causing some issues during Ofsted inspections.

Register now to continue reading

Thank you for visiting Nursery World and making use of our archive of more than 35,000 expert features, subject guides, case studies and policy updates. Why not register today and enjoy the following great benefits:

What's included

  • Free access to 4 subscriber-only articles per month

  • Unlimited access to news and opinion

  • Email newsletter providing activity ideas, best practice and breaking news

Register

Already have an account? Sign in here



Nursery World Jobs

Senior Practitioner

South West London

Nursery Practitioner

Hammersmith and Fulham, London (Greater)