University of Worcester, Department for Children and Families

Newly published - 2nd edition of Birth to 5 Matters
A fantastic document, full of child centred information, free to download. https://birthto5matters.org.uk/
You can also watch a video (1hr) which explains what's been included in the updated version. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ngpeEIF83Qw

Image shows the cover of the updated Birth to Five Matters document. There is a white/grey background and six photos of early years children engaging in enjoyable experiences both inside and outside. Text reads "Birth to 5 Matters, Guidance by the sector, for the sector. Non statutory guidance for the EYFS from the Early Years Coalition www.birthto5matters.org.uk 2nd Edition 2026

Join us for National Play Day on Thursday 6th August!

Ready to take the next step in your Early Years career?
Are you looking for a flexible way to build on your existing Early Years qualification?
Do you want to develop your leadership skills and confidence in practice?
Are you ready to move forward in your career after working as a practitioner?
If so, the FdA Early Years (0–8 years) at the University of Worcester could be the perfect next step for you.
✨ Why choose this course?
-A blended, flexible approach to learning
-Online study activities designed to fit around work and life commitments
-Monthly Saturday face-to-face sessions to support your learning and connect with others
-Flexible tutorial support tailored to your needs
-A strong focus on developing leadership skills for the Early Years sector
-This course is designed to support you to grow professionally while continuing to work in the field you’re passionate about.
📩 Take the next step in your journey today and APPLY NOW to secure your place starting this September. Visit our webpage: https://www.worcester.ac.uk/courses/early-years-0-8-foundation-degree

Samantha Sutton-Tsang is currently overseeing the SPICE 2026 in collaboration with the Chinese YMCA of Hong Kong to bring English language to children in areas of Hong Kong, immersing them in an English language rich camp in a fun and engaging programme. It kickstarted with the Welcome dinner with the coordinators, interns and UK volunteers enjoying local cuisine in Ma on Shan.

Do you have Teaching Assistants or Learning Support in a Primary, Secondary of FE college who you want to up skill and make excellent teachers?

We have the perfect route for them.

2 years on a Foundation Degree and 16 months to ‘top up’ and gain Qualified Teacher Status.

Taught on Wednesday afternoon/evenings, so only half a day a week release time required.

See attached flyer for more info- applications open until Mon 29th June.

Ready to take the next step in your early years career? 🌱

Looking to progress into teaching?

Want a hands-on course that blends theory with real-world practice?

Looking for a flexible mode of study combining Saturday teaching with online study? Or local study in Worcester or Birmingham?

The FdA Early Years (0-8 years) Higher Technical Qualification could be the perfect fit for you — apply now and start your journey! ✨

Study at the University of Worcester! Our course received an Overall 100% satisfaction from students in our Course Experience Survey this year!

Visit our webpage for more information: https://www.worcester.ac.uk/courses/early-years-0-8-foundation-degree?option=207f5ae1-5b49-5f12-8ecf-66af0fa18478

✍️Child Development Talks: Early Years

These evening sessions will be delivered by lecturers from the University of Worcester and early years professionals. They give an insight into children’s early years development, covering topics such as the power of play and paediatric first aid.

🗓️Thursday 25 June, 6:30pm - 8:00pm
🎟️Book your free tickets here: https://e-services.Worcestershire.gov.uk/LibraryEvents/EventDetails.aspx?id=7466

Following on from the Children and Families Festival, the university are putting on free public talks for families on a range of child development/early years topics.

There are three per evening and they cover issues such as mental wellbeing, brain development, paediatric first aid and much more delivered by a range of experts and professionals in the field.

The events will highlight the various stages of children's early years development with a collection of talks from University of Worcester lecturers and early years professionals.

We have limited spaces but you can book your free tickets.

Thursday 11 June (6:30 – 8:00pm)
1. Brains in Bloom: growing smart, happy and curious minds by Dr Alison Prowle
2. The Power of Play by Niki Stobbs
3. Supporting Communication and Language by Dr Carla Solvason
Book here: https://e-services.worcestershire.gov.uk/LibraryEvents/EventDetails.aspx?id=7465

Thursday 25 June, 6:30 – 8:00pm
1. Connections build Connections: relationships and mental health by Denisse Levermore
2. Paediatric first aid for at home with Jon Hunt
3. Still Yourself: a talk on presence, steadiness, connection and making room for what matters in busy family life by Casey Ryan
Book here: https://e-services.worcestershire.gov.uk/LibraryEvents/EventDetails.aspx?id=7466

Please feel free to pass those links on to anyone who you think might be interested.

e-services.worcestershire.gov.uk