Changes to policy and curriculum

Early Years qualifications - Qualification withdrawal

The Open University will withdraw the following qualifications:

• BA (Hons) Early Years (Q51) will be withdrawn on 31 December 2021
• Top-up BA (Hons) Early Years (Q60) will be withdrawn on 31 December 2021
• Foundation Degree in Early Years (X01) will be withdrawn on 31 December 2019
• Diploma of Higher Education in Childhood Practice (W01) will be withdrawn on 31 December 2019
• Certificate of Higher Education in Early Years Professional Practice (T19) will be withdrawn on 31 December 2019

A suite of new qualifications in Early Childhood will be available from 2016.

What students need to do

To claim one of these qualifications, students will need to successfully complete all necessary academic requirements before they are withdrawn. However, students must keep in mind that some of the modules which count towards these qualifications are due to be discontinued before the qualification withdrawal dates:

• The early years: developing practice (E100/EZL100) will begin for the final time in October 2015
• Professional practice in the early years (E105) will begin for the final time in October 2016
• Extending professional practice in the early years (E210) will begin for the final time in October 2017

If a student doesn't successfully complete any compulsory modules for their qualification before they are withdrawn, they will be unable to complete their current qualification.

Why this is happening

The decision to restructure our curriculum is intended to bring it in line with the shifting pattern of qualifications and training offered elsewhere. The current set of qualifications will continue to be valued and respected within the sector, however, and are of particular benefit for Early Years professionals keen to develop their practice and to achieve recognised qualifications.

Please talk to your Student Support Team if you need any further information. You can find out how to contact them on Contact the OU.