Childhood Practice

The Scottish Government commitment to provide at least 1,140 hours of early learning and childcare to every child from the age of three and potential further expansion for two year olds has significantly increased demand for a high quality, resilient early years’ workforce.

We are continuing to support the development of the early years workforce by offering a clear learning pathway with courses from introductory level to HND; preparing students for a career in this growing sector. We offer additional short courses to enhance qualifications, for example, REHIS elementary food hygiene certificate, and supervised tooth brushing and work closely with other areas including Health and Social Care and Sport and Fitness, subjects which have a significant role within the early years sector.

We have excellent links with local employers and related organisations, which means students learn directly from specialists in the industry. Previous childhood practice and early education students have benefited from sessions with the Children’s Commissioner for Scotland, Home Start and from attending the Early Years Services conference.

Learning happens everywhere, not just in classrooms. Our students learn in our multi award winning outdoor classrooms on campus, which acts as an excellent outdoor teaching space for students, with regular visits and experience working with local pre school, primary and secondary school children. We also take our students out on visits, with previous students visiting the Risk Factory, Glasgow Science Centre and Foxlake Adventures.

Our childhood practice and early education students complete work placements in local authority and private early learning centres as part of the course. This gives them useful experience for developing a career in this field. Work placements let students gain meaningful work experience within the industry before they embark on their career. It can even lead to permanent job offers on completing the course.

You can read about our Early Years partnership here

Take a look at our Outdoor Forestry classroom

Careers in Childhood Practice

As a childcare worker you can make a lasting and positive impact on the lives of young people. The industry is constantly adapting in response to new research on how children learn and develop, with innovative approaches and outdoor play encouraged. With a qualification in childhood practice, there are opportunities to work in local authority and private settings.

Qualified childcare workers are in high demand. According to the Scottish Social Services Council, there are around 30,000 people are employed as early years and childcare workers in Scotland.

Our courses will give you the knowledge, skills, experience and networks to find your place within the industry. All of our last year’s intake were in employment or further study six months after finishing their course. When you complete your course, you could work as an early years practitioner, classroom assistant, early years officer or a class teacher (following additional study).

Previous students have found employment with West Lothian Council, , After School Care, and within Private and Partnership early years establishments. Others have moved on to further study at Queen Margaret University through our articulation agreement, Abertay University, The University of Stirling and The University of Glasgow in subjects such as Education Studies, Primary Education and Childhood Practice.