BA (Hons) Montessori Early Childhood Studies (Graduate Practitioner)
Introduction to our Montessori Early Childhood Studies degree
Start your Montessori teaching career with the only UK university provider of specialist Montessori degrees at undergraduate and postgraduate level.
Alumni success
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
Study at an award-winning university
We were named Times Higher Education (THE) 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.
Why Montessori Early Childhood Studies at ARU?
- Join a course that ranked 13th in the UK in the Guardian University Guide 2025.
- 95% for “Learning resources” (National Student Survey 2024).
- 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.
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.
This 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 three full days each trimester, and we'll offer additional workshops and guest lectures to complement your studies.
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.
Course options
Key facts
Entry Requirements
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Fees and Paying for University
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 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.
Student experience
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 Smith's Spotlight interview
Lucie Hamilton
Early Childhood Studies BA (Hons) student Lucie explains what you learn on the course and why play is so important for children's development.
Read Lucie Hamilton's blogFacilities and support
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. Take a guided tour and meet our students.
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
Lecturers
Kay Aaronricks
Head of School
Careers
Guided by the Early Years Professional Framework, we work with employers to ensure our BA (Hons) Montessori Early Childhood Studies will give you the knowledge, skills and abilities that you need.
You’ll be qualified to work in any registered setting in England, including nurseries and preschools, as a Montessori teacher, or in leadership roles.
You might also want to continue on to a Masters course, such as one of our MA Education degrees, which include options to specialise in leadership and management, SEND, and Montessori settings, or our PGCE. Take advantage of our Alumni Scholarship and get 20% off your fees.
Life in Chelmsford
Chelmsford has something for everyone, and our green, modern campus is just ten minutes from the city centre.
Get to know ChelmsfordGet in touch
If you're thinking about applying to ARU or have questions about your application, contact our Admissions Customer Service Team.
Monday-Thursday 9am-5pm
Friday 9am-4.30pm
Placement available
You have the option to take a placement as part of this course. It’s a great chance to get hands-on experience in early years and education.
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