Norland

Since 1892, Norland has led the way in early childhood education and care, earning a global reputation for developing outstanding early years practitioners. Norland’s undergraduate degree uniquely integrates rigorous academic study with practical training and extensive real-world experience to build deep professional confidence.

Postgraduate learners advance their expertise through flexible, research‑informed study designed to fit around work and life. Norland is rated Gold across every category of the Teaching Excellence Framework (TEF) 2023 – recognising the highest standards of undergraduate teaching, student experience and student outcomes.

Students join an inclusive, nurturing community with personalised support, innovative industry insights and expert academic and practitioner‑led teaching — all designed to prepare students to make a meaningful impact on children and families. Norland’s expert training equips students for a rewarding, dynamic career where they’ll shape children’s lives through every milestone and contribute to advancing the early years sector.

Where is Norland and what’s the setting like?

Norland is based in the beautiful city of Bath, the only city in England to qualify as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. With its large student population, Bath is also an interesting and vibrant university city – bustling with life and entertainment for our undergraduate students.

Postgraduate students study our 100% distance learning course, which allows students flexibility to pursue their academic goals at their own pace and study around work.

What are the standout course offerings at Norland?

In September 2026, Norland becomes the world’s first university dedicated to early childhood. At undergraduate level, students study a BA (Hons) Early Childhood Education and Care degree alongside the Norland diploma which uniquely blends academic study with practical training to equip students with the knowledge and skills required to work with children and families.

The master’s course allows early years professionals to advance their career with specialisms in supporting behaviour, food and nutrition, sleep hygiene and home-based pedagogy and care.

What are the entry requirements and fees?

• Undergraduate courses
• Postgraduate courses

What is student life like at Norland?

Student life at Norland is built around community, connection and shared purpose. Undergraduate students study in person and benefit from being part of a close-knit campus environment, while postgraduate students join an engaged online learning community shaped by collaboration, discussion and support.

Undergraduate students are provided with free exclusive access to Bath Spa University Students’ Union clubs, societies, sports teams, facilities and more, enabling them to socialise with a wider group of students and take part in a range of activities not available at Norland.

Although the experience of student life differs across each course, both offer a strong sense of belonging within Norland.

What facilities does Norland offer?

Norland’s state-of-the art facilities include a simulated nursery, purpose-built cookery space and a dedicated library providing all of the resources needed for undergraduate degree and diploma studies.

First-year undergraduate students live in shared accommodation across the city of Bath, enabling them to immerse themselves in student life outside of Norland training and learn essential life skills.

Postgraduate students have access to a virtual learning environment and virtual library to support them with their studies.

How does Norland support your career?

Mention graduate employability rates, placement opportunities, and career service support. Any HESA or Graduate Outcomes data is valuable here.

Upon completion of the undergraduate degree and diploma, graduates become Norlanders or Norland Nannies. They benefit from 100% guaranteed employability through the Norland Agency and higher than sector average salaries.

There are not many professions that can offer guaranteed employment opportunities, but at Norland demand from families for qualified Norland Nannies outstripped supply from day one and continues to do so today. The Norland Agency works exclusively with Norland Nannies to place them in positions all over the world, working as nannies and maternity practitioners.

The lifelong support Norlanders receive is also something which has continued since the early days of Norland. They have the opportunity to join the Professional Association of Norlanders (PAN) and have exclusive access to an active Continuous Professional Development (CPD) training programme to pursue specialist topics and ensure their knowledge and skills are kept up to date.

Graduating from Norland’s MA will equip students with advanced knowledge of the early years. Students will develop their critical‑analysis skills and deepen their understanding of early childhood. This will open up a range of career pathways across the early years sector, including academic and research roles, specialist home-based consultancy, leadership and management roles, policy, advocacy and charitable work and specialist nanny roles.

What do students say about Norland?

Norland has consistently been ranked one of the top small and specialist providers at the Whatuni Student Choice Awards which are based solely on student reviews.

“Norland offered exactly what I was looking for… a world class degree that would enable me to further pursue my career to work with children.” Vania, BA (Hons) Early Childhood Education and Care

How do you apply to Norland?

Applications for the undergraduate degree and diploma are made through UCAS.

Applications for the postgraduate course are made directly to Norland via their website.