HNC & HND

EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATION

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PROGRAMME OVERVIEW

The Higher National Certificate (HNC) and Higher National Diploma (HND) in Early Childhood Education are prestigious qualifications awarded by Pearson BTEC. These programs are designed to equip students with the essential knowledge, practical skills, and professional behaviors needed to excel in the early education and care sector. By emphasizing child-centered learning approaches, students gain practical experience and theoretical insight to thrive in a variety of early education settings.

Year 1 - Higher National Certificate (HNC) Modules

  • Personal and Professional Development through Reflective Practice
  • Protecting Children in Early Education and Care Environments
  • Play and Learning in Early Childhood
  • Supporting and Promoting Children’s Development (Babies and Toddlers)
  • Supporting and Promoting Children’s Development (Young Children)
  • Promoting Healthy Living
  • Preparing for Research (Pearson-set)
  • Promoting Inclusive Early Education and Care Environments

Year 2 - Higher National Diploma (HND) Modules

  • Investigating Childhood: Action Research for Early Childhood Practitioners (Pearson-set)
  • Improving Quality in Early Education and Care Environments
  • Current and Emerging Pedagogies in Early Childhood Education and Care
  • Child-Centered Practice with Children, Families, and Communities
  • Promoting Trauma-Informed Practices in Early Education
  • Managing and Leading in Early Childhood Settings
  • Outdoor Play and Learning
  • Applied Practice – Collaborative Project (Pearson-set)

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS

Age Requirement
  • Applicants must be 18 years or older.
  • One GCE A-Level pass in a relevant subject with three GCSE passes, OR
  • A Level 3 qualification, OR
  • Relevant work experience in early childhood education or care.
  • Minimum CEFR B2 or IELTS 5.5 proficiency required.
  • Mature applicants with supervisory work experience must meet the English language requirement.

PROGRESSION OPPORTUNITIES

Upon successful completion of the HND, students have several progression routes:

Employment

Graduates can pursue careers in nursery management, early years teaching assistance, child support roles, and community-based care settings. With specialized training, they may also explore roles such as Special Educational Needs Coordinators (SENCOs), Family Support Workers, and Child Development Specialists. Graduates are well-equipped to support the development and well-being of children in diverse educational and care environments.

Further Education

Many universities offer top-up degree programs, enabling HND graduates to achieve a full bachelor's degree in fields such as Early Childhood Studies, Education, or Child Psychology. These pathways provide the academic foundation for roles in teaching, research, or advanced care settings.

Professional Qualifications

Graduates may pursue professional certifications recognized globally, such as those provided by The Early Childhood Studies Degrees Network, National Day Nurseries Association (NDNA), and other governing bodies, ensuring their skills remain aligned with industry standards.

Why Choose EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATION?

The Early Childhood Education program offers a comprehensive pathway for students passionate about fostering young children’s growth and development. Key benefits include:

Students gain practical experience in diverse early education settings, learning to adopt inclusive, child-centered approaches. The program’s focus on play-based learning, health promotion, and leadership skills ensures graduates are ready to lead in the early childhood sector. With Pearson BTEC’s global recognition, students are well-prepared for academic progression and career advancement.

As a student, you will also gain direct access to Prime School's assets (www.primeschool.pt), including state-of-the-art facilities, curated resources, and tailored mentoring programs led by experienced professionals in early education. This support system ensures you have the tools and guidance necessary to succeed academically and professionally.

The Early Childhood Education program offers a comprehensive pathway for students passionate about fostering young children’s growth and development. Key benefits include:

Students gain practical experience in diverse early education settings, learning to adopt inclusive, child-centered approaches. The program’s focus on play-based learning, health promotion, and leadership skills ensures graduates are ready to lead in the early childhood sector. With Pearson BTEC’s global recognition, students are well-prepared for academic progression and career advancement.

Admissions & Fees

Ready to start your transformative journey? Apply now and join our thriving community.
Enrolment / Renewal Fee

€500

Annual Tuition Fee

€6,000

Support

One-on-One Mentoring & Guidance

Institutions Offering Year 3

(TOP-UP) IN BUSINESS

Are you ready to start the learning journey?

Are you ready to start the learning journey?