Norland becomes the world’s first university dedicated to early childhood
7 September 2026
Today marks a historic milestone as Norland officially becomes Norland University of Early Childhood, the world’s first university dedicated exclusively to early childhood.
Students joining Norland today as Set 150 – the 150th student intake in Norland’s history – are the first cohort to start their studies under the higher education provider’s new title, Norland University of Early Childhood. They join a community dedicated to advancing early childhood through education, care, research and professional practice.
University status strengthens Bath-based Norland’s ability to advance education, research and professional practice, building on more than 130 years of expertise while helping to shape the future of early childhood for generations to come. This news follows assessment and approval by the Office for Students which was published in July.
“Becoming a university is recognition of more than 130 years of pioneering work in early childhood education and care."
Professor Janet Rose, Vice Chancellor, Norland University of Early Childhood, said: “Today is a landmark moment in Norland’s history and an exciting day for everyone connected with Norland. It has been a pleasure to welcome Set 150 as the first cohort to begin their studies under our new title as Norland University of Early Childhood.
“Becoming a university is recognition of more than 130 years of pioneering work in early childhood education and care, but it is also a commitment to the future. As Norland University of Early Childhood, we will continue to advance education, research and professional practice, helping to shape the future of the sector in the UK and internationally.
“What makes Norland unique is our ability to combine academic excellence with exceptional professional preparation, ensuring graduates leave with the skills, experience and confidence to thrive in rewarding careers supporting children and families.”
Founded in 1892 by education pioneer Emily Ward, Norland has long championed the importance of early childhood and the value of professional expertise in supporting children’s development. Norland’s distinctive model combines an academic degree, specialist professional training and extensive real-world experience. Students graduate with both a BA (Hons) degree and the Norland diploma, alongside more than 1,200 hours of placements and a paid fourth year in employment, preparing them for a wide range of careers across early childhood education and care.
Norland graduates benefit from exceptional employment outcomes, with 100% employability and continued global demand for their expertise. Through the Norland Agency, graduates access career opportunities across the UK and internationally, with demand from families continuing to outstrip the supply of qualified Norlanders. While many graduates go on to successful careers as Norland Nannies, others pursue roles across education, family support, specialist early years services, research, leadership and wider early childhood professions.
I really feel that Norland deserved university status, and I’m so happy that I get to be part of such a big moment in its history. Being one of the first students to start since the university title launch makes me feel even more honoured to be going to Norland.Star, first-year student
"I’m so happy that I get to be part of such a big moment in its history."
Star, first-year student joining Set 150, said: “I am so excited to be joining Norland in September. It has been a major goal of mine for a long time, so it is almost hard to believe that I have achieved it and secured a place. Naturally, I am a little nervous about starting university, making new friends and adapting to a completely new environment, but more than anything I am excited for this next chapter and everything it will bring.
“I really feel that Norland deserved university status, and I’m so happy that I get to be part of such a big moment in its history. Being one of the first students to start since the university title launch makes me feel even more honoured to be going to Norland. I’m most looking forward to expanding my knowledge and becoming the absolute best nanny I can be. I want to learn as much as I possibly can about children and their development, and take everything I learn into my future career. I’m also really looking forward to making new friendships, growing as a person and experiencing everything that Norland has to offer.”
"I also feel honoured to be part of such a significant moment in Norland’s history as it becomes a university."
William, first-year student joining Set 150, said: “I am feeling a mixture of emotions about joining Norland in September. Above all, I am excited and incredibly proud to have the opportunity to train here. This is something I have wanted for a long time and, now that it is finally happening, it still feels unreal.
While I am naturally a little nervous about starting in a new environment and meeting new people, getting to know those I will be living with has already given me a real sense of confidence. Everyone has been so welcoming and supportive, including our buddies, and that has made the transition feel much less daunting.
“I also feel honoured to be part of such a significant moment in Norland’s history as it becomes a university. It is a remarkable achievement and one that reflects the excellence Norland is known for. Alongside being part of this historic year, I am most looking forward to making new friends, taking part in the training and learning from new experiences. After attending around six open days, I already knew Norland was the right choice for me, and I am excited to begin placements, develop my skills and explore the opportunities that lie ahead.”
“The launch of our MA marks an important new chapter for Norland as we begin life as a university."
Today also marks the launch of Norland’s MA in Early Childhood Education and Care, a flexible, part-time, online master’s programme designed for educators, early childhood practitioners, leaders and policymakers. Delivered over two years, the programme enables those working directly with young children, alongside professionals in related fields such as childcare policy, to develop specialist knowledge in four key and rapidly evolving areas of early childhood: supporting behaviour, food and nutrition, sleep hygiene, and home-based pedagogy and care.
Professor Rebecca Digby, Deputy Vice Chancellor (Education and Research), said: “The launch of our MA marks an important new chapter for Norland as we begin life as a university. Designed for professionals across education, early years practice and policy, the programme will enable students to develop specialist knowledge in areas that are increasingly important to children’s wellbeing and development.
“Drawing on Norland’s longstanding expertise and commitment to research-informed practice, the master’s programme will support professionals to deepen their impact and help shape the future of early childhood education.”
I am hopeful that Norland gaining university title status will help shift attitudes towards professional nannies.Liam, Norland Nanny
"I feel fortunate to be part of Norland at this important stage in its history."
Nyah, a second-year student in Set 149 who joined Norland from the United States, said: “My first year at Norland has been incredibly fulfilling. Moving to a new country was a big step, but I quickly felt part of a supportive and welcoming community. Alongside my studies, I’ve become heavily involved in student life and have benefited from opportunities both in the UK and internationally, including holiday nanny positions in Norway and California through the support of the Norland Agency.
“When I applied to Norland in 2023, there was already excitement about the possibility of university status. To now be studying here as that becomes a reality is a proud moment. Combined with Norland’s Visa Sponsor status, university title will help strengthen Norland’s global reputation and open doors for students from around the world who want to pursue a career in early childhood education and care.
“As an international student, I’ve already seen the difference the new title makes. It makes me proud every time my current family introduces me as their summer nanny from Norland University. As a dual-passport holder, I plan to work in as many countries as possible before retiring, and university status will hopefully boost Norland’s recognition worldwide.
“I feel fortunate to be part of Norland at this important stage in its history. While the academic side is being celebrated, I have also loved every second of the practical Norland education. The diploma classes and placements have been my favourite parts of Norland, as I find it intensely rewarding to work with my hands and gain real-world experience under the guidance of experienced Norlanders (as well as the amazing sewing and food and nutrition teams!).”
"I hope university title status will help raise the profile of the profession and strengthen its standing across the wider childcare sector.”
Norlander Liam, Set 39, said: “My time at Norland was a huge period of growth for me. It gave me the opportunity to combine the in-depth understanding of child development I gained in the classroom with practical experience on a range of placements, helping me develop both academically and in my work with the children I have cared for since.
“I am hopeful that Norland gaining university title status will help shift attitudes towards professional nannies. Families often place considerable value on the views of teachers and other childcare professionals, but the expertise of experienced, qualified nannies does not always receive the same recognition. Over time, I hope university title status will help raise the profile of the profession and strengthen its standing across the wider childcare sector.”
University status builds on Norland’s longstanding achievements, including degree-awarding powers, a Gold rating in all aspects of the Teaching Excellence Framework (TEF), leading research activity and a strong track record of graduate employment and sector influence.
Through its research activity, professional learning, consultancy and sector partnerships, Norland already contributes to policy, professional practice and workforce development across the UK and internationally. University status will strengthen that contribution and support the continued advancement of the early childhood sector.
