Liverpool Hope University, BA (Hons), Early Childhood Studies and Fine Art

Early childhood studies Level 1: The student studies an introduction to the philosophical and historical background to the early years tradition; the pioneers identified here will remain central to the course, providing the student with a historical understanding of current good practice that incorporates working closely with the family in relation to the needs of the child; this is followed by a holistic examination of child development in relation to physical, social and emotional development. Level 2: this level develops by looking at how young children think and learn and considers the links between cognition, language acquisition and playful learning; this sets the scene for studying how young children learn in the foundation stage, in comparison to international models; a range of other modules is offered which may include: motivation and well-being in young children; creativity and the young child. Level 3: a key area of study at this level is legislation, policy and strategy for early managers, in relation to early years settings and young children; legislation and social policy are constantly developing and the student examines these in relation to early years provision and leadership within a multi-agency workforce; a range of other modules are offered which may include: research project; surviving change, loss and grief in young children’s lives; using information and communication technology creatively. Fine art At level 1 the student is supported by an individual tutor through an accredited programme of personal tutoring and development planning; the tutor helps the student to understand their own learning and study needs within the context of their subject choice. Level 1: The student is introduced to a range of creative strategies to enable them to understand and engage in the potential of drawing, colour study and materials manipulation in 2- and 3-dimensions; tutorials and critical and contextual study seminars help the student to develop the ability to evaluate and communicate their ideas. Level 2: the student continues to develop their theoretical and practical skills; continuous tutorial consultation and supervision enable the student to devise their own work programme to acquire a firmer sense of their creative strengths and skills, and to define and refine their personal aesthetic. Level 3: clarification of each student’s position as an independent fine artist is sought in the final year; during this period of the course the student is expected to produce work that envelops and exploits individual creative potential and skills for exhibition.

This is a combined Honours scheme which allows the student to combine the 2 subjects; early childhood studies is an academic subject that is a dynamic response to the government’s plan to integrate early years education and childcare provision; the student works towards achieving the Early Years Professional Status (EYPS) as required by the Children’s Workforce Development Committee (CWDC); throughout the pathway, the student is required to experience early years via a placement so that 1st-hand observations of practice can be made in relation to early years pedagogy; the fine art course provides the structure for individual creative experiences, intellectual endeavour and the fulfilment of potential; a full programme of 2- and 3-dimensional study, incorporating a variety of fine art media, and is underpinned throughout by critical studies in contemporary and historical art; the course is suitable for students who are passionate about art in an exciting multimedia and performance environment.