NEW COLLEGE SWINDON LAUNCHES BA (HONS) EARLY CHILDHOOD STUDIES TOP-UP

College Swindon have launched their first full degree top-up in partnership with Bath Spa University.

Today, Early Childhood Studies BA (Hons) students joined together for the official launch of the programme. Learners range from New College continuers, to those who have had a long break from study and are looking to change or further their career.

Emily Longthorne previously did an Apprenticeship (Level 2 and 3) with New College, she then went on to work as a full-time teaching assistant and has now returned to college on the Early Childhood Studies programme.

Emily said: “If I didn’t have the opportunity to do my degree in Swindon at New College, alongside work, I would never have been able to do complete this level of study. Doing the degree enables me to progress in my career and I have really enjoyed returning to study.’ Plans to do teacher training upon competition of course.”

Dawn Evans, Early Years Programme Leader HE said: “We are delighted to welcome our first cohort of third year Early Childhood Studies BA Honours students to New College, working in partnership with Bath Spa University. The students have studied their foundation degree or equivalent qualifications and have decided to progress onto their top up year here where they will be engaging in early childhood research amongst other modules. We are all looking forward to the year ahead and celebrating their graduation in July.”

Rebecca Digby, Programme Leader Early Childhood Studies at Bath Spa University said: “Bath Spa University and New College Swindon have a long-standing relationship. We work closely together to ensure that students receive an excellent experience. Over the course of the Early Childhood Studies degree, learners will benefit from the expertise of a range of specialist lecturers, connect to the vibrant Centre for Research in Early Childhood (REaCh) and access the resources at both Bath Spa University and New College Swindon.”