Norland recognised for exceeding national quality standards in early childhood education

Norland has achieved the Early Childhood Graduate Practitioner Competencies Quality Mark after an external audit found early childhood education and care provision exceeds expectations.

The nationally Quality Mark, developed by the Early Childhood Studies Degrees Network (ECSDN), assesses how higher education providers prepare students for graduate-level professional practice in the early years sector.

The audit reviewed Norland’s teaching, assessment, placement provision and student outcomes. It praised the strength and consistency of Norland’s integrated approach, which combines academic study through the BA (Hons) Early Childhood Education and Care with the practical, skills-based Norland Diploma.

Reviewers highlighted the way students build strong theoretical knowledge alongside extensive hands-on experience in a wide range of settings, including nurseries, schools, hospitals and family homes. This breadth of placement experience helps students develop the confidence, judgement and practical skills needed to work effectively with children and families in different professional contexts.

The audit also commended the close collaboration between Norland’s academic and placement teams, as well as its strong relationships with employers and placement settings. These partnerships were described as exemplary and were recognised as a key strength in supporting high-quality practice-based learning.

Overall, the review confirmed that Norland meets all Early Childhood Graduate Practitioner Competencies requirements and goes beyond expected standards in the areas of assessment including feedback, student voice, assessment methods and skill development.

The achievement reinforces Norland’s distinctive approach to early childhood education and care, uniquely bringing together academic rigour, professional practice and practical skills-based training to prepare graduates for high skilled roles in the early years sector.