The module will introduce you to the main concepts of management theory and human and physical resources management. You will link and critically evaluate general management theories, to the principles of leadership, team building, delegation and motivation. Financial and physical resources will be examined within the context and constraints of the early years setting. You will consider the management of change and the major influences to bring this about.

The teaching strategies will employ a range of methods, including lectures, seminars, one to one tutorials, presentations and case study observations. Peer group discussion will allow students to share ideas and experiences and will encourage reflection and evaluation.

A key aspect of the learning strategy for this module is the direct involvement of employers and work based learning. This is particularly effective as it give students realistic, hands on experiences and develops skills relevant to the employers' needs and student’s career progression. It is expected that you will discuss this aspect of change with work colleagues, manager, parents and children. You will keep a descriptive log throughout the 4-5weeks it takes you to implement this change. You will consider the management of change and the major influences to bring this about.
Part way through the module you may submit your descriptive log to your tutor and discuss your challenges and successes. Your tutor will then advise you of how to critically reflect on this descriptive aspect of change supporting your reflection with links to leadership and management theory.

(3000 words) (Weighting 100%) (LOs 1,2 & 3)
A REFLECTIVE LOG documenting the process of instigating a small change within an early years environment and critically evaluating its effect on the staff, children and parents/carers involved, making reference to leadership and management theory. The log should include elements of a small-scale research investigation into the needs of the children, parents/ staff and statutory requirements. The log should include the rationale behind the change and the implications to the children, staff and parents/carers. (2500 words)
You should critically reflect upon the strategies and interpersonal skills used to communicate aspects of the change to colleagues, children and their parents/carers. (500 words)

Formative Assessment: Opportunities to review plans and a draft entry of the reflective log with tutors will be made available at appropriate times during the module.

References and a reference list are essential and should be recorded according to the Harvard System.

Access to work-based settings, multi-media classroom resources, access to university library resources, Blackboard and relevant digital editing programmes such as Windows media

Clark, M.M., and Waller, T., eds, (2007), Early Childhood Education and Care: Policy and Practice, London, Sage Publications
Daly, M., Byers, E. & Taylor, W., (2009) Early Years Management and Practice (2nd Ed,), Oxford, Heinemann.
Lindon, J. & Lindon, L., (2012), Leadership and Early Years Professionalism: Linking Theory to Practice. Abingdon: Hodder
Moyles, J., (2006) Effective Leadership and Management in Early Years, Bucks, OUP.
Rodd, J., (2013), Leadership in Early Childhood (4th Ed), London, Allen & Unwin
Campbell-Barr, V. & Leeson, C. (2016) Quality and Leadership in the Early Years. London. Sage.
Davis, G. & Ryder, G. (2016) leading in Early Childhood. London. Sage.

1. Carry out a small-scale investigation into an aspect of managing an enabling environment to meet the needs of the children, staff, and parents/carers and statutory requirements.
Application
Analysis
Problem solving

2. Critically evaluate the importance of leadership, motivation and teamwork in achieving quality provision for children.
Application
Knowledge and Understanding
Learning

3. Critically reflect on strategies and interpersonal skills used to effectively communicate aspects of change in routines or environments to relate to stakeholders.
Communication
Application
Reflection