The Early Childhood Studies degree at Leeds Trinity University, delivered by the School of Children, Young People and Families, has been recognised as ‘exceeding expectations’ following a recent Early Childhood Graduate Practitioner Competencies (ECGPC) quality assurance audit. 

Carried out by the Early Childhood Studies Degrees Network (ECSDN), the ECGPC audit aims to evidence students’ holistic understanding of early childhood development and their ability to apply, critically evaluate and communicate theoretical knowledge to practice. 

The audit, which involved a range of discussions with current students and regional employers, found several areas of excellence and innovation embedded within the degree, including effective organisation of student placements, valued observation of students in practice settings, and high-quality support provided by lecturers and wider University staff.

Feedback from employers also highlighted the positive impact of the programme, and the School of Children, Young People and Families more widely, on the profession and its practices.

Mike Dessington, Head of School of Children, Young People and Families at Leeds Trinity University, said: “We are immensely proud that our Early Childhood Studies degree has been recognised with this hallmark. It is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our staff, our partners in the early years sector, and our students. The achievement reflects our unwavering focus on preparing future leaders in the field who display the highest quality care for the children and families they work with.” 

Clarrie Smith, Deputy Head of School of Children, Young People and Families at Leeds Trinity University, said: “We thank all the local and regional early years providers who have supported the growth of this programme over recent years, and every setting that has supported a student on placement. It is due to the ethic of care and dedicated mentoring offered by early years practitioners that our students gain such positive and solution-focused experiences.” 

Taught at Leeds Trinity’s Main Campus in Horsforth, the Early Childhood Studies degree offers students the chance to explore a wide range of issues and theoretical perspectives relating to young children, from safeguarding and wellbeing to effective learning and development.  

For more information, visit the course page.