The Lyceum Campus, which serves as the higher education arm of The Lyceum Education Group is pleased to announce a strategic partnership with Pearson and the University of the West of England, Bristol (UWE, Bristol) to introduce a new academic pathway in Early Childhood Education. The launch of the novel initiative, which took place on Wednesday, 26th June, at the Lyceum Campus premises in Nugegoda, was distinguished by the attendance of the esteemed representatives from Pearson, alongside the Country Manager for Sri Lanka from the University of the West of England, Bristol.

The event was further dignified by the presence of the Board of Directors from the Lyceum Education Group, as well as prominent educational leaders from prestigious Schools in Colombo. Additionally, the occasion was marked by the participation of members of the press and media. The newly established pathway aims to equip students with the necessary skills and knowledge to excel in diverse Educational, Leadership and Managerial roles thereby enabling them to exert a significant and enduring positive influence on the development of young learners.

The initial academic route provides students who have completed their Advanced Level examinations with the opportunity to pursue a BTEC Higher National Diploma in Early Childhood Education and Care. This qualification, conferred by Pearson, is offered at Lyceum Campus and can be completed within a duration of 18 months. Subsequently, students may transfer to the University of the West of England, Bristol, located in the United Kingdom, to complete the final year of study, culminating in the attainment of a Bachelor of Arts with Honours degree in Early Childhood. The BTEC Higher National Diploma (HND) programme, as offered by Pearson, comprises a comprehensive curriculum of 15 modules.

These modules encompass a diverse range of subjects, including but not limited to Personal and Professional Development through Reflective Practice; Protecting Children in Early Education and Care Environments; Play and Learning in Early Childhood; Supporting and Promoting Children's Development; Promoting Healthy Living; Preparing for Research (Pearson-set); and Promoting Inclusive Early Education and Care Environments. This extensive programme is designed to provide a thorough and well-rounded education in the field of early childhood education and care.

A notable advantage of completing the initial 18 months of the HND programme at Lyceum Campus is the substantial financial benefit. Students can potentially realise savings of approximately LKR 18 million, which would otherwise be expended on tuition and living expenses should they opt to pursue the first two years of their bachelor's degree in the United Kingdom. Mr. Suriya Bibile, Deputy General Manager for Sri Lanka and Maldives at Pearson highlighted in his statement, “Pearson BTEC higher nationals are internationally recognised qualifications that help learners progress both to University and employment.

BTEC qualifications contain up-to-date content that is benchmarked against the highest standards of the UK. Approval of a BTEC centre follows a robust stringent process. We are pleased to welcome Lyceum Campus as the latest BTEC centre in Sri Lanka. I wish both Lyceum and the students the very best and congratulations.” Ms. Mandy Lee, the Dean of the School of Education at UWE, Bristol, expressed her satisfaction, stating: "I am greatly pleased with our partnership with Lyceum Campus.

We have collaboratively developed an exemplary, cohesive early childhood course that works across both Sri Lanka and the United Kingdom." The 1+2 pathway in Early Childhood Education, offered as the second option, presents students with the opportunity to matriculate into the second year of the BA (Hons) in Early Childhood at the University of the West of England (UWE), Bristol, upon successful completion of the Diploma in Early Childhood Development Education at Lyceum Campus. This pathway allows students to complete the Diploma within a year at a cost-effective rate, subsequently enabling them to transfer to UWE Bristol to complete their bachelor's degree in the second and final year.

The Lyceum Campus diploma curriculum in Early Childhood Development Education recognised by The Tertiary and Vocational Education Commission (TVEC) encompasses comprehensive aspects of early childhood education, including child development, curriculum planning, and behaviour management. Students acquire an in-depth understanding of the theories and practices that underpin effective teaching and learning in this field. Students are afforded opportunities to apply their knowledge in real-world settings through internships and field placements.

This practical exposure enhances their comprehension and prepares them for potential challenges in their future careers. Recent research has established the significance and quality of learning from birth. Moreover, there is a high demand for qualified Early Childhood Educators in the United Kingdom. According to a report issued by the Education Policy Institute in 2019, an estimated 45,000 early years teachers will be required by 2024. This presents a significant challenge to all higher education providers offering early childhood programmes to produce qualified early education teachers who not only possess the requisite qualifications but also demonstrate the ability to implement classroom teachings in practice.

The job sector expects graduates to explore issues affecting children and understand social, psychological, and philosophical factors in children's lives, learning, and development. Additionally, graduates are expected to develop key communication, interpersonal, and critical thinking skills, including the ability to work effectively with others, organize information and ideas, and present their ideas clearly and confidently. Given these substantial expectations, Lyceum Campus is committed to meeting the demands and expectations of the industry by producing versatile early childhood graduates.

These graduates will assume the responsibility and accountability of positively impacting the lives of young children who may one day emerge as great leaders. We anticipate that this partnership will enhance our institution's academic profile and provide students with expanded opportunities for personal and professional growth. Further details regarding the programme structure, admission requirements, and commencement dates will be communicated in due course.