Studying Early Childhood Studies

Introducing your course leader - Amanda Tayler

Welcome to the BA (Hons) Early Childhood Studies course at University of Staffordshire. I’m your course leader, Amanda Tayler. I’m an early years specialist with specific interest in our workforce. I take great pride in managing this course and educating the next generation of practitioners.

I’ve worked at the university since 2015, and I’m deeply passionate about the field of early childhood education. I teach across several undergraduate modules and supervise research projects at both undergraduate and postgraduate levels. Currently, I’m involved in a research project focusing on Forest Schools, and I also contribute to our recruitment and outreach activities within the Institute of Education.

Before joining the University of Staffordshire, I led the Foundation Degree in Early Childhood Studies at a partner college, and my career has spanned various roles within early childhood education. My research interests include early years workforce reform, professional identity, and the development of early years educators.

Hear from a student

Early Childhood Studies graduate, Lucy, talks about the amazing memories, great experiences and lifelong friends she made on the degree. 

Where could your Early Childhood Studies degree take you?

From the moment you start at University, our Career Connect team are here to support you on your career path.

As an Early Childhood Studies graduate, you will have the skills and experience for a range of jobs.

Popular routes include working in schools, nurseries, local authorities, health organisations and with charities.

Many of our graduates have progressed onto postgraduate studies, including primary and early years teacher training.

Others work as education welfare assistants, nursery managers or within social work teams, supporting vulnerable children and their families.

Teaching staff

Amanda Tayler

Senior Lecturer

I am an early years specialist with a specific interest in our workforce. I take great pride in managing this course and educating the next generation of practitioners to lead practice and change the lives of young children. 

Amanda's profile

Francesca Brown-Cornwall

Lecturer

I’m an Early Childhood Specialist and hybrid Psychology and Education researcher fascinated by smiles, laughter and thinking. I am passionate about supporting a skilled, innovative and joyful workforce in childhood and educational services.

Francesca's profile

Dr Jo Basford

Course Director Associate Professor

Education is transformative. It enables us to see the world differently, to challenge our thinking and to try new things. My ambition is that every student studying Education will find it a transformative experience.

Jo's profile

Your next steps

  1. Accept your offer

    An exciting new chapter awaits you here at University of Staffordshire - we can't wait to meet you. Before you can progress with finance or accommodation choices, you'll need to confirm your offer via UCAS.

    Accept your offer

  2. Apply for student finance

    It's best to arrange your student finance before starting University. You can learn more about student finance and make an application at www.gov.uk/student-finance. Our support team is here to help, get in touch if you have any questions about student finance.

    Enquire about finance

  3. Apply for your accommodation

    We have a range of accommodation to choose from to suit all lifestyles and budgets, including en-suite and accessible rooms. Browse rooms and find out how to apply.

    Browse University accommodation

Your Offer Holder Events

You're now part of our offer holder community, and we've planned an exclusive programme of events to help you prepare for becoming a student. These include both virtual and on‑campus sessions.

Keep an eye on your inbox for your invitation to our offer holder events - we'd love to welcome you, answer your questions, and help you feel confident about your next steps.

Your first event will be an interactive session designed to bring your course to life, with real case studies, taster activities, and live challenges tailored to your interests. If you're taking exams this summer, you can get some great tips at our exam preparation session.

At other upcoming events, you'll be able to explore your accommodation options, and find out more about student support and opportunities to earn while you learn. We'll also keep you up to speed on all the key deadlines and next steps, so you are ready for September.

for Career Prospects

Whatuni Student Choice Awards 2025

for Social Inclusion

The Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide 2026

for First Generation Students

The Mail University Guide 2026

in the UK for Games Education

Rookies Games Design and Development 2023, 2025

TIGA Best Games Institution 2024, 2025

of Research is “Internationally Excellent” or “World Leading”

Research Excellence Framework 2021

of Research Impact is ‘Outstanding’ or ‘Very Considerable’

Research Excellence Framework 2021