4 years with foundation year
This year will prepare you for the rest of your course. We’ll focus on general skills such as researching and referencing, numeracy and ICT, and communication. But we’ll also start to look at topics related to working with children and families, including intercultural studies, psychology and ethics.
Introduction
Study one of the only specific Montessori Early Childhood Studies degrees to become a Montessori teacher. Study in Chelmsford or by distance learning.
Our BA (Hons) Montessori Early Childhood Studies degree is the right course for you if you’re interested in working in a Montessori and early years context. This first of its kind, this course will develop your knowledge, enabling you to become a competent Montessori teacher.
You’ll explore the Montessori method of education, focussing on the three elements of the Montessori Dynamic triangle: the child, the environment and the teacher. We’ll work together to explore the Montessori materials and the presentations that support children’s learning and development, giving them opportunity for self-direction, while you guide them on their journey to self-discovery.
Focusing on Montessori’s own writings, you’ll study her own theories of the secrets of childhood and on the importance of supporting the child to reach their full potential.
You’ll learn from staff who are academics and qualified Montessori practitioners. During your studies you’ll reflect on child development, cosmic education, social justice, inclusion, you’ll develop your ability to critically reflect on experiences and will have a broad and balanced societal view supported by theoretical knowledge and research evidence.
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Over the three years of the course, you’ll work towards achieving the core early years graduate practitioner competencies, that ensure you qualification is full and relevant for a Montessori graduate.
You’ll be able to study flexibly with us, on campus or by distance learning, and we’ll equip you with the knowledge and skills to enter an ever-changing early years workplace and make a difference to the children you work with.
It is important to us that you graduate as a well-rounded individual, with a passion for the Montessori pedagogy and early years children. So, throughout our course we’ll provide the necessary support and tools for you to succeed.
We’ll give you the opportunities to flourish as an autonomous, active learner through providing you with on-going feedback and personalised teaching approaches and resources based on learner needs, interests, and experiences.
You’ll also benefit from the research our lecturers are involved in through our Early Childhood Research Group.
Specialist facilities
Our Early Childhood Resource and Research Room is packed with toys, games and equipment where you’ll be able to experience a child’s eye view of the world.
Practical experience
As a Montessori Early Childhood Studies student at ARU you’ll benefit from:
- a compulsory placement, in a Montessori setting, which we’ll support you in sourcing
- additional volunteering and work experience, further professional development training opportunities, enrichment trips, research groups and various early childhood and education events
- learning the underlying values, principles and philosophies of Montessori and care
- knowledge of contemporary and competing theories relating to children from birth to eight years, and their families
- enhancing your creativity and critical analysis, and show the potential to visualise and instigate change within practice
- developing your communication skills for different needs and audiences
- gaining a globally recognised bachelor degree qualification
Early Childhood Graduate Practitioner Competencies (ECGPC)
When you study with us, you’ll have the option to complete the ECGPC (Early Childhood Graduate Practitioner Competencies).
This is a professionally recognised framework that’ll enhance your employability and provide some clarity for your prospective employers as to the graduate level of your achievements.
These competencies are included on the QAA Early Childhood Studies Subject Benchmark Statements with practice at Level 6 recognised by the Department for Education (DfE).
You’ll meet the nine competencies through assessed observation of practice, practice-based tasks and academic assessment.
Careers
We’ve worked with employers in designing our BA (Hons) Montessori Early Childhood Studies, to make sure you graduate with the knowledge, skills and abilities they need. We’ve also been guided by The Children’s Workforce Development Council and the Early Years Professional Framework.
Whether in nurseries or pre-schools, you’ll be qualified to work in any registered setting in England as a Montessori teacher, or in leadership roles.
Or maybe you’ll want to continue your studies at ARU, with options including our MA Education with Montessori and PGCE. Take advantage of our Alumni Scholarship and get 20% off your fees.
Entry requirements
Foundation year entry requirements
Main
- 88 UCAS Tariff points from a minimum of 2 A Levels (or equivalent).
- 5 GCSEs at grade C, or grade 4, or above, including English and Maths.

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