New facilities aim to strengthen practical training and tackle skills shortages in early childhood education
The University of Hertfordshire has unveiled new simulation facilities designed to give early childhood education students more realistic, hands-on training, as one of the UK’s earliest degree courses in the field marks its 25th anniversary.
The BA (Hons) Early Childhood Education degree launched in 2000 and now sees around 30 graduates each year progress into roles supporting children aged five and under, from safeguarding positions in local authorities to senior nursery management.
The new facilities reflect growing pressure on the early years sector, which continues to face recruitment and retention challenges nationwide.
Responding to a sector under strain
Recent research highlights the scale of the problem. A Nesta report found that just 9 per cent of private and voluntary early-years providers had any graduate staff in 2022. Separate analysis by the Early Years Alliance and the TUC showed that 95 per cent of English local authorities report difficulties recruiting suitably skilled early-years staff, with 80 per cent describing the situation as “very difficult”.
Against this backdrop, the University’s newly expanded simulation suite aims to better prepare students for professional practice before they enter the workplace.
A classroom that mirrors real life
The adaptable training space has been designed to replicate a typical early-years classroom. It includes adjustable furniture, play and learning zones, a baby area, creative and sensory spaces, and materials commonly used in nurseries and childcare settings.
Dr Fortunate Madondo, Programme Leader for BA (Hons) Early Childhood Education, said the facility bridges the gap between theory and practice.
“We believe the simulation room will significantly enhance the student learning experience. By replicating a typical early years’ classroom environment, it better prepares our students for placements and real-world learning and development scenarios,” she said.
She added: “Many of our international students and even some domestic students may not be familiar with how UK nursery classrooms are typically arranged. These new facilities will help bridge that gap by translating theory into practice and it is fitting that it comes on this anniversary for the course.”
Preparing graduates for complex careers
Graduates from the programme go on to work across a wide range of sectors, including education, social care, safeguarding, research, charities and public services. Many also progress to postgraduate study.
Dr Madondo said workforce instability remains a serious concern.
“Recent research shows turnover rates in the early years workforce remain high – between 11% and 15% – indicating ongoing instability. Such disruption affects the continuity of care for children and highlights the need for well-qualified, confident practitioners,” she said.
“Our graduates are equipped for a broad range of careers supporting children, families and vulnerable groups, and these new facilities will only strengthen that preparation.”
Student experience at the centre
For current students, the impact has been immediate. Nadiya Rumanay, who studies on the course alongside her twin sister, said the space has transformed how theory connects to practice.
“The newly refurbished simulation room has greatly supported our understanding of child development and professional practice, especially in preparing us for our Level 5 and Level 6 placements,” she said.
“As international students, it has been particularly valuable in helping us learn how early years practice works in the UK and what high quality provision looks like in real settings.”
A legacy built over 25 years
The course’s long-term influence is reflected in the careers of its alumni. Poppie Ephgrave, now an Early Years Lecturer at the London Early Years Foundation and a PhD student at Hertfordshire, said the programme shaped her professional direction.
“The Early Childhood Education programme shaped both my career path and professional values,” she said. “The programme grounded me in critical reflection, care-led practice, and a clear sense of purpose that continues to inform my work in early childhood education.”
Dr Charmagne Barnes, Pro-Vice Chancellor for Education and Student Experience, said the new facilities reinforce the University’s commitment to applied learning.
“Real-world skills are at the heart of everything we do at Herts,” she said. “These skills ensure our graduates are ready to create inclusive, nurturing environments where every child has the opportunity to thrive.”
