BA (Hons) Available in Clearing

Montessori Early Childhood Studies (Graduate Practitioner)

Start your Montessori teaching career with the only UK university provider of specialist Montessori degrees at undergraduate and postgraduate level.

Start date
September 2025
Location
Chelmsford
Duration
2 years accelerated blended-learning
UCAS course code
X3C2

You have the option to study this course by distance learning. Modules may vary. Please see our distance learning website for more information.

This course is available in Clearing 2025 only for the two year accelerated version. You can still apply to study with us for three years distance learning.

Top 10%

of universities in the country for graduates who agree their current activity is 'meaningful'.

Source: GOS 2025

You’ll develop the knowledge and skills to become a competent and effective teacher according to the Montessori Principles, focussing on the three elements of the Montessori Dynamic triangle: the child, the environment and the teacher.

As well as exploring Montessori materials and presentations that support babies, toddlers and young children’s learning, development, self-direction, and self-discovery, we’ll examine cosmic education, social justice and inclusion, and you’ll reflect on your own learning and practice.

Using our learning management system, Canvas, you'll access a comprehensive range of study resources and take part in optional online workshops with the Course Director. You'll also be fully supported with advice and regular feedback from our expert tutors.

Early Childhood Graduate Practitioner Competencies (ECGPC)

When you study with us, you’ll complete the ECGPC (Early Childhood Graduate Practitioner Competencies). This is a professionally recognised framework that’ll enhance your employability and provide clarity for employers about the graduate level of your achievements.

A baby sitting and looking at a toy being held by a student
  • A student holding up a picturebook as if reading to a class

    Fast-track your education with an ARU accelerated degree

Why ARU?

  • Join a course that ranked 13th in the UK in the Guardian University Guide 2025

  • 95% for “Learning resources” and 95% for “Communication of mental well-being support” (National Student Survey 2024)

  • Gain a globally recognised degree qualification

  • Learn on a Montessori placement with support to secure one

  • Gain additional experience though volunteering and work experience

  • Save time and money with an accelerated degree and demonstrate the drive to succeed

Logo: THE Awards 2023
 

Study at an award-winning university

We were named Times Higher Education University of the Year 2023. We've also been awarded a Gold rating in the Teaching Excellence Framework – a reflection of the outstanding education we offer our students.

Careers

Kate Larsson in Montessori classroom

This idea of using the Montessori philosophy as a framework for leadership massively inspired me.

Kate Larsson, Graduate and Montessori Nursery Manager

When you study with us, you’ll complete the ECGPC (Early Childhood Graduate Practitioner Competencies) guided by the Early Years Professional Framework.

This is a professionally recognised framework that will enhance your employability and evidence your graduate level skillset to employers.

Graduation doesn’t have to be the end of your time with us. You might stay at ARU and study for one of our MA Education degrees. Take advantage of our Alumni Scholarship and get 20% off your fees.

Teaching and modules

We’ll start by exploring key Montessori theories and materials, as well as the basics of human development. You’ll gain skills in research and critical reflection that you’ll use throughout your degree and career.

We’ll then look at different aspects of the Montessori approach in greater depth. You’ll also develop as an early years professional in terms of safeguarding, inclusion, and leadership.

Finally, you’ll complete an independent research project on a relevant topic of your choice.

Throughout the course you’ll gain experience on placement, and achieve your Early Childhood Practitioner Competencies.

Student experience

  • Kate Larsson in classroom

    Kate graduated from our BA (Hons) Montessori Early Childhood Studies in 2023 as a mature student, and now works as Manager of a thriving Montessori Nursery and Pre-school in Cambridgeshire. Discover how our course helped Kate.

  • Selfie of Lucy Smith

    ARU spotlight - Lucy Smith: Lucy studies on our BA (Hons) Montessori Early Childhood Studies degree by distance learning, and manages a nursery recently rated Outstanding by Ofsted. Read Lucy's spotlight interview.

  • A student and lecturer on a rug in a classroom looking at pink building blocks

    Early Childhood Studies BA (Hons) student Lucie Hamilton explains what you learn on the course and why play is so important for children's development. Read Lucie's blog.

  • Kate Larsson in classroom
  • Selfie of Lucy Smith
  • A student and lecturer on a rug in a classroom looking at pink building blocks
  • Kate Larsson in classroom
  • Selfie of Lucy Smith
  • A student and lecturer on a rug in a classroom looking at pink building blocks

You have the option to study this course as an accelerated degree over two years. The accelerated course is delivered via blended learning, which means you can study in your own time, around your other commitments. You'll join your tutors and peers on campus for four full days each trimester, and we'll offer additional workshops and guest lectures to complement your studies. You'll study online the rest of the time.

Or, you have the option to study this course via distance learning over three years. If you already have a Level 4 Montessori qualification, or a Montessori FdA, you can join the course at Level 5 or 6. Contact us for more information.

Modules are subject to change and availability, and may vary by location. If you have the choice of optional modules, these are indicated with a *.

Year 1
  • The Developing Montessori Child
  • The Developing Graduate Practitioner in Practice
  • Montessori Curriculum 1
  • Safeguarding and Wellbeing
  • Education for Global Citizenship and the Use of Artificial Intelligence
  • Montessori Curriculum 2
  • The Reflective Graduate Practitioner in Practice
  • Into ARU
Year 2
  • Exploring a Sustainable Education
  • Innovative Change Through a Creative Lens of Leadership
  • Undergraduate Major Project
  • The Professional Graduate Practitioner in Practice
  • Advocating for Children's Rights
  • Ruskin Module
Module details

You have the option to study this course via distance learning. If you already have a Level 4 Montessori qualification, or a Montessori FdA, you can join the course at Level 5 or 6. Contact us for more information.

Modules are subject to change and availability, and may vary by location. If you have the choice of optional modules, these are indicated with a *.

Read profiles of teaching and research staff on this course.

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.

 Take a guided tour and meet our students.

Entry requirements

Fees and funding

Apply for Montessori Early Childhood Studies (Graduate Practitioner)

Clearing places available

UK students, apply through Clearing for a September 2025 start

Apply through Clearing

Apply by phone

UK students, call our Clearing line

01245 686868

UK students

Apply through UCAS for 2026

Apply through UCAS

Apply online

Apply directly to ARU

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Related courses

BA (Hons) Early Childhood Studies (Graduate Practitioner)
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BA (Hons) Primary Education Studies
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