Postgraduate course in Childhood Education

Childhood Education covers a range of different courses for many different age groups. These include early childhood education as far up as working with 18 year olds. 

Postgraduate courses in the area of childhood education allow those already in teaching, teaching assistant, youth work and other similar roles to continue to develop their understanding and knowledge of children and young people. 

They also offer the opportunity to continue personal development of their career.

In the words of Nelson Mandela, “education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world,” so, why not begin your research into making your next move?

Take the plunge, read on and add to your education.

Courses

There are quite a number of childhood education courses to choose from across the UK. Some courses offer the opportunity to study part time and full time and under current Covid-19 restriction, some universities may have their own plans. It is important to research a specific course in full. Examples of courses on offer are:

Education (Childhood/Early Education)

A postgraduate course in childhood and early education is important for those working as teachers or similar in order to allow them to continue to develop their careers. Those who take these courses will be able to reflect on their professional development and current practice as well as allow them to engage in research methodology. Other focuses include looking at social contexts, transition procedures and processes and their impact on children. 

Childhood Studies

Childhood Studies courses look at the social study of childhood and youth, from ages 0-18. They are mostly multi-disciplinary courses so will cover subjects such as sociology, psychology, anthropology, history, philosophy and human geography as well as drawing on the social, cultural and educational lives of young people and children around the world. Students will focus on academic thinking as well as gaining the skills and knowledge to work with children and teenagers. 

Childhood and Youth Studies

This is a very similar, if not the same, as the above course but the title slightly differs. Those who study a postgraduate course in childhood and youth studies will gain an understanding of how communities and families have an influence and shape the development of young people and learn ways to empower young people. Other focuses include global attitudes towards children, communities’ expectations of young people and children’s rights across a number of cultural contexts.

PGCE Early Years

These courses will give students the opportunity to gain a qualification to teach children between the ages of 3-7 years old. Courses like this will look at multiculturalism, diversity and more. Those who take a course in early years education will gain knowledge and experience of the classroom and will undergo practical placement in schools throughout the duration of the one year course. 

Entry Requirements

Each course may differ in their specific entry requirements, however, most require a good honours degree. Some courses may prefer a 2.1 honours degree while others require a 2.2 in a relevant field. In some cases, applicants may have to submit their university transcripts. Each individual course requirements can be found on course overviews or on University websites. 

Salary expectation

The salary expectation may differ depending on your exact role. Location and experience may also have a say in your salary in some cases. The average salary of an early years teacher may be around £18,000 and with experience over a few years, you may earn up to £30,000. In roles such as a primary teaching assistant, you can earn close to £20,000. As a primary school teacher you can earn anything from £25,000 to £32,000. All figures are based on estimates.

Potential Employers

Potential employers of childhood educators/teachers include:

• Nurseries
• Pre-schools
• Primary schools
• Local and national charities
• Health authorities 
• Youth centres

Skills and requirements

Helpful skills for working within this field include:

• Strong communication skills
• A friendly, welcoming manner
• Compassionate 
• Critical thinker
• Passion
• Creativity 
• Organization 
• Technical skills
• Patience
• Passion for learning and teaching
• Emotional intelligence 
• Stamina
• Inspiring
• Mindful
• An understanding nature
• Strong leadership skills