Home » Courses » Early Childhood Studies BA (Hons) Top-Up Full-time
Early Childhood Studies BA (Hons) Top-Up Full-time
Course Overview
Early Childhood Studies BA (Hons) Top-Up Full-time
The Early Childhood Studies BA (Hons) Top-Up Degree, validated by Leeds Trinity University, is designed for individuals with a foundation degree (or equivalent Level 5 qualification) in early years care and education. It emphasises applying theory to practice through work-based activities like workplace analysis, management models, teamwork, and children’s learning. You’ll develop reflective skills, understand ethical issues, and receive support, including a tailored induction programme.
You’ll be at College two evenings a week, on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 5.00pm until 8.00pm.
Modules
On this one-year course, you will study a range of modules, which may include the following:
Evaluating Current Debates and Developments
Work Related Project
The Early Years Professional
Developing Through Play: Theoretical Perspectives
Located at: Barnsley College University Centre
Course Start:
September 2026
Course length:
1 Years
Study Mode: Full-time
Course Code: HCHDCBAT
UCAS Course Code: PECH
Validated by:
Course Fees and Funding
How much does the course cost?
£6995
Other funding information
As a Higher Education student living in England you may be eligible for the non-means tested Tuition Fee Loan from the Government and a Maintenance Loan.
Students with children or dependant adults may qualify for a Childcare Grant or Adult Dependants' Grant. Students can apply for these at the same time as applying for a Maintenance Loan.
Remember: Eligible students will not have to pay tuition fees in advance and can apply for the Maintenance Loan before they start the course.
We offer a service to any student who has a diagnosis of anything persistent or long-term which might interfere with how they study and manage their day-to-day academic engagement. The service is flexible and shaped around the needs of each individual; it might be consistent support or intermittent support.
At Barnsley College, we focus on recruiting students with talent and potential who will benefit from both academic and non-academic experiences. We evaluate each application individually, placing value on your personal statement. Below is an overview of the qualifications we accept. If your qualifications aren’t listed, please contact our Admissions Office for guidance.
Successful completion of a foundation degree in a relevant area or equivalent Level 4 and 5 qualifications.
We require GCSE English Language at minimum Grade C or 4 (or accepted Level 2 equivalent).
We welcome students with a range of qualifications and we treat every application on its own merits.
DBS Requirements
Applicants who are offered a place and accept will be contacted regarding the DBS application, which will be completed via an external company.
A variety of assessment methods are used, matched to the learning outcomes for your programme, allowing you to apply and demonstrate the full range of knowledge and skills that you have developed.
We recommend students bring their own laptop or tablet, along with pens, paper, and small stationery items.
Additional course costs may apply beyond tuition fees, including:
Books: Recommended and required reading lists will be provided. Books and e-books are available to borrow from the Library, but you may choose to purchase your own. Print costs: Printing is available on campus for a small charge, with credit that can be topped up.
Undergraduate Degree
Once you graduate, you'll be ready to begin a career as a nursery leader, family support worker, teacher, play worker, play therapist or social worker (after postgraduate study).
Other Resources
For further details, please contact our Information Unit by calling 01226 216 123 or emailing: info@barnsley.ac.uk
Barnsley College has a range of sports opportunities for all students to take part in, gain professional training and compete nationally and internationally. We also have a state-of-the-art fitness village, the Sports Village, where students can make use of our fitness suite, spinning studio and classes for competitive rates.
Barnsley Sports Academy offers state-of-the-art facilities and diverse sports programs, enabling students to achieve academic and athletic excellence. Remember, you don't have to be studying Sport to join Barnsley Sports Academy.
Disclaimer: Please note we reserve the right to change details without notice. We apologise for any inconvenience this may cause.
The course information on this page was last updated
29 January 2026.
Are you applying to study at Barnsley College University Centre only?
If you only wish to apply to Barnsley College University Centre, you can apply directly via our website, using OnTrack.
Simply select the course you wish to apply for and click the “Apply direct” button.
You will then be asked to complete an online application form and create your Barnsley College OnTrack account.
You will need to upload your qualification certificates and a form of ID. Once you have applied, your application will be reviewed by a course lecturer and you may be invited in for an interview.
Are you applying to more than one institution?
If you would like to apply to more than one university, you will be required to apply via the UCAS website.
As a general guide, applications can be made via UCASbetween September and late January.Please check the UCAS website for further information.
We do consider applications throughout the year, although the earlier you submit, the earlier you will receive a decision and can start to plan accordingly.
The UCAS Code for Barnsley College University Centre is: B13.
