Bath-based Norland has officially become Norland University of Early Childhood, making it the world’s first university dedicated exclusively to early childhood education and care.
The milestone was marked on 7 September as the institution welcomed Set 150, the 150th student intake in Norland’s history. The new cohort is the first to begin studying under the university title.
Founded in 1892 by education pioneer Emily Ward, Norland is well known for training specialist childcare professionals and nannies. The institution combines an academic degree with professional training and practical placements, with students completing more than 1,200 hours of work experience before graduation.
Professor Janet Rose, Vice Chancellor of Norland University of Early Childhood, described the development as “a landmark moment in Norland’s history”.
She said: “Becoming a university is recognition of more than 130 years of pioneering work in early childhood education and care, but it is also a commitment to the future. As Norland University of Early Childhood, we will continue to advance education, research and professional practice, helping to shape the future of the sector in the UK and internationally.”
The change follows approval from the Office for Students and builds on Norland’s existing degree-awarding powers, granted in 2019.
Alongside the new university title, Norland has launched a part-time online MA in Early Childhood Education and Care aimed at educators, early years practitioners, leaders and policymakers. The programme focuses on areas including behaviour support, food and nutrition, sleep hygiene, and home-based pedagogy and care.
Norland says university status will strengthen its contribution to research, professional practice and workforce development, while further enhancing Bath’s reputation as a centre for specialist higher education.