BSc Top-up in Early Childhood Studies (Graduate Practitioner)
Draft – Subject to Validation
Develop your knowledge of child development, safeguarding and leadership while preparing you for graduate-level roles in the early years sector.
Delivered by Milton Keynes College Group and validated by The Open University.
The Open University Validation
This programme is subject to validation by The Open University and may change.
What “subject to validation” means:
This programme has not yet completed The Open University’s academic approval process and approval is not guaranteed. Programme content, structure, assessments, delivery pattern and fees may change until validation is confirmed. Final approved information will be provided once validation is complete. Expected validation date May 15th2026.
Applicants may withdraw their interest, application or provisional acceptance at any time without penalty.
Course overview
The BSc Top-up in Early Childhood Studies (Graduate Practitioner) is a one-year Level 6 programme designed for learners who have completed a relevant Level 5 qualification and wish to progress to a full honours degree.
The course develops advanced knowledge of early childhood theory, policy, pedagogy, inclusion, safeguarding, and professional practice.
What will I do?
You’ll build the advanced knowledge and professional skills needed to thrive as a graduate‑level early years practitioner.
You’ll explore child development, safeguarding, SEND, leadership and early years pedagogy while applying your learning directly in real settings through practice‑based activities and workplace experience.
What’s next?
After completing this course, you will be prepared for:
- Leadership and management roles within early years settings
- Specialist roles in SEND, safeguarding or family support
- Consultancy, advisory or quality assurance roles
- Graduate roles such as Room Leader or SEN Support Practitioner
- Further study such as Early Years Teacher Status (EYTS), PGCE or a Master’s degree
Is it for me?
This course is ideal for those who are passionate about supporting young children’s learning and development and is best suited to individuals who are organised, reflective and motivated to develop their professional skills while taking on greater responsibility within early years settings.
Entry requirements
You will need:
- A relevant Level 5 qualification in Early Years, Early Childhood Studies or a related subject
- Equivalent qualifications or experience may be accepted through Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)
- Applications welcome from learners already working in early years settings
How will I be assessed?
You will be assessed through a range of coursework and practical assignments designed to reflect professional practice in early years settings.
How will my progress be monitored?
You will be monitored in a variety of ways, and these will be explained to you by your tutor.
Work Experience
Work experience forms an important part of the course and gives you the opportunity to apply your learning in real early years settings.
How can I pay for my course?
There are a variety of ways in which you can get help with fees and funding while studying. For detailed information on funding options and bursaries, please visit our Funding and Financial Support page.
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Contact Details
For queries about this programme, please contact Admissions using the details below.
- Email: admissionsandenrolments@mkcollege.ac.uk
- Phone: 01908 684551
Change Communication Statement
If any programme information changes during the validation process, we will update this webpage within five working days of the change being made and contact all individuals who have registered interest. You may withdraw your interest at any time without penalty.
What does it mean to “Register your expression of interest”?
Registering your expression of interest lets us know that you would like to receive updates and further information about these new courses. It is not a formal application or commitment.
By registering, you help us understand levels of interest, ensuring that we can provide timely and relevant information as the programme develops. Post validation, we will contact you in at the end of May to confirm the programme details and to discuss the next steps
This page was last updated on [27/02/2026] following changes to the proposed programme.
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