Don’t just take our word for it.

Our students and alumni share their experiences studying with us and explain what sets us apart.

What our students have said

  • As a lecturer who was passionate about teaching and committed to helping students succeed, I knew that I needed to deepen my understanding of theory and best practices in order to advance in my career.

    That's why I decided to pursue a Master's degree.

    The MA programme has been an invaluable experience for me, providing me with the knowledge and skills needed to become a more effective educator and leader. The programme also gave me opportunities to work closely with other educators and collaborate on innovative projects. I was able to share my experiences with colleagues and gain new perspectives on teaching and learning.

    The knowledge and skills that I gained from the programme helped me develop my role from a lecturer to now a deputy head. I am gaining a greater understanding of the needs of students and my team, and I am better equipped to lead my team towards success. I am confident that the skills and knowledge that I acquired during my Master’s will continue to be an asset as I take on new challenges in my career.

    Ishrat Shaheen-Ali, Lecturer in Early Years, MA 2021-present

  • I feel very privileged to have worked with some of the most inspirational and supportive tutors who have instilled in me a passion for research that I never knew I had.

    The MA has been practice changing for me, and has had a huge impact in the way I work with young children. I would recommend the MA to anyone serious about instilling change and developing their understanding of early childhood. I feel sad that my MA journey has come to an end, but with CREC learning circle, there are still opportunities for alumni to meet and share knowledge and experiences regarding early childhood education and I look forward to continuing this academic relationship.

    Rachel Pollard, CREC MA, CREC MA, 2020-2023

  • It has been a pleasure to learn at CREC

    both online during Covid restrictions and then face-to face in the final two years. The academic input and pastoral support has been outstanding, and I wouldn't hesitate to recommend CREC to anyone considering an in-depth study of education in the early years sector.

    Janey Maxwell, CREC MA, CREC MA, 2020-2023

  • Undertaking my MA at CREC was one of the most rewarding experiences of my life.

    The genuine warmth, encouragement and support received from the team at CREC made studying around a full-time job a pleasure, not a chore. The tutors on the creativity and art pathway are absolutely fantastic! I would always leave a teaching day at CREC with renewed confidence, excitement and passion for completing my research. I wholeheartedly recommend CREC as a place to learn and grow.

    Heather Morley, CREC MA, CREC MA, 2020-2023

  • The tutors at CREC really encourage you and challenge you to think for yourself and to reflect on your own practice and to follow your own needs and ideas which I have been very grateful for.

    I think it has really built my confidence in my own thoughts and ideas in regards to research and my own practice.

    The days at CREC are great, I always love returning to see everybody. They really allow you to come together as a group and to catch up with the other students and share your own research, share any challenges that you have come across, and just to have that interaction with each other to share what you’re all going through.

    Face to face days are also great for getting that one-to-one support with the tutors, sharing your ideas on your research and getting some advice from them on how to take it further and extend your knowledge.

    Clair Sammons, CREC SCITT and CREC MA, 2015-2020

  • I've learnt so much and have become a more thoughtful practitioner.

    My experience of studying Early Childhood Music Education at CREC was really positive. I learnt so much and have become a more thoughtful practitioner. The MA has also changed my life in that I have connected with many new people. As a result of my studies and my new connections, the focus of my work has changed and continues to change which is really exciting. It was challenging trying to fit academic study into a busy working life but it is incredibly rewarding - there is great sense of personal achievement. My studies have helped me to value the sector I work in more highly too.

    KATIE NEILSON, MUSIC TEACHER, CREC MA, 2017-2020

  • I learnt so much during my time at CREC

    that has informed both my everyday practice and my broader approach to childhood. I also valued having a peer group and wonderful tutors to support me throughout.

    Sarah Botting, CREC MA, 2020-2023

  • My research gave me validity and the confidence to be part of the many national and international conferences I was asked to present at.

    More so, it continues to open many other doors, both professionally and personally. It continues to make me ask the questions and to boldly seek out answers.

    Part of “The Gift” by Hafsha Dadabhai Shaikh

  • CREC is a wonderful academic family where you are respected, valued and supported in your professional and learning journey.

    There are no words to express my gratitude to all of them! Helen Moylett is one of the most amazing tutors; kind, supportive, knowledgeable and truly passionate about early years. The module has changed my perspective on two-year-olds, enhancing my understanding and knowledge, making me a better tutor! Helen is inspirational and I am proud to be one of her students!

    Maria Felicia Iordan, Lecturer in Early Childhood, Learning and Development, Coventry University (CREC MA 2018-2022)

  • The course provides you with a deeper understanding and the practical knowledge to support changes required to assist two-year-olds within a setting. Highly recommended!

    The Leading Learning with Two-year-olds has been an invaluable learning experience. I an an owner/ manager of a PVI and being on Helen’s pathway has given me confidence to do the right thing for these often misunderstood two-year-olds.

    Theresa Ewin, Play-Days Nursery, Newport, Shropshire (Leading Learning with Two-year-olds, 2019-20)

  • I’ve just completed Helen Moylett’s Two-year-olds pathway and I found it invaluable for my practice.

    In a setting where we have many two year olds, it’s great to be reminded of what is critical and relevant for this age, as well as discovering new and useful information to use in practice.

    Helen [Moylett] is an inspirational and passionate speaker and this makes the module even more special. A privilege to be tutored by someone with such knowledge and passion in the early years field.

    Nikki Smith, Little Learners Preschool, Waltham Cross (Leading Learning with Two-year-olds, 2019-20)

  • It's no exaggeration to say this course changed my working life.

    Yes, it's tricky fitting study round busy family life but the tutors at CREC are so knowledgeable and supportive, and the people you meet on the course become such great friends and allies that you're all in it together. I have learnt so much, met so many like-minded people and actually got more work from the opportunities that have arisen, having done this course. A fantastic place to study, I whole-heartedly recommend it.

    SALLY-ANNE BROWN, CREC MA, 2015-2018

  • CREC modules are challenging, stimulating and thought-provoking.

    The environment was always supportive and enabling. My Masters led to article commissions in EY sector magazines, and teaching in HE institutions. It allowed me to continue furthering my career during maternity leave, and to feel real, significant achievement at a time when I was predominantly looking after my babies. It was a challenge, but that’s what made it worthwhile; I did it anyway, and I did it well, and I’m incredibly proud of that.

    SALLY TEARE, CREC MA, 2012-2014

  • I loved being at CREC; the smaller setting and care and dedication of staff.

    I did my MA in Education at CREC, including the Mentoring & Coaching Module and the Dissertation, through which I designed a meditation programme for young children. I have since developed both an audio programme of meditation for children and families, and a series of lesson plans for teachers. Having attracted outside investment, this is beginning to reach a wider audience through schools and individuals.

    CHRIS LUDLOW, CREC MA, 2013-2015

  • It’s such a privilege and pleasure to learn at CREC.

    For someone like me who doesn’t get paid if I don’t work and is all over the country all the time, the CREC MA is a brilliant opportunity to learn without having to give up work.

    RUTH SWAILES, CREC MA, 2018-present

  • All of the work done at CREC is a glimmer of hope.

    After attending CREC training a while ago I had an impromptu conversation about the MA with a CREC team member and she was so warm and encouraging about it, and I am so pleased to this day that I started my MA with you. In these scary and troubling times for the EYFS, all of the work done at CREC is a glimmer of hope and the MA is such a rewarding experience. Thank you for all that you do.

    Anonymous - student feedback

  • The staff at CREC make it a truly enjoyable, personal, and welcoming experience. The tutors are fantastic and I leave CREC sessions walking on air.

    The recommended reading, the discussions and the assignments are so purposeful and rewarding. It has been a wonderful year.

    Anonymous - student feedback

  • I can’t speak highly enough of the people and learning opportunities at CREC.

    The last 2 years have had a huge impact on my coaching craft, and I can’t wait to start my dissertation. If you work with young peope, there are some fantastic opportunities here.

    Tom Hartley, CREC MA 2018-present

  • After completing my teacher training with CREC, I carried on to do my MA.

    It is really good to carry on learning with such a great learning community and inspiring and knowledgeable tutors.

    I am now part of SCITT steering group and I also sometimes do some teaching on the SCITT course.

    Lauren Coates, CREC MA 2016-2019

  • I would recommend this course to anyone who wants to discover what education and pedagogy is really about!

    Brenda Lattimore, CREC MA 2018- 2021

  • It has been a very enjoyable year.

    I have liked hearing a diverse range of perspectives that were shared during the group work and face to face days. I always came away with something to think about and apply to my own practice.

    Anonymous - student feedback

  • The tutors are really passionate and warm people.

    The general family feeling of the CREC experience throughout my 3 years study was lovely. They are one big CREC family. :)

    Anonymous - student feedback

  • CREC is such a supportive environment and it is so relaxed.

    I loved my time there, so different that typical college. Small class sizes ensure you receive the support you need and make lasting friendships.

    Anonymous - student feedback

  • I have loved studying at CREC.

    The teaching , guidance and support received has been excellent and there is always someone to talk to and offer support and guidance when needed. Thank you.

    Anonymous - student feedback

  • I would like to say a very big thank you...

    …to Helen for all her support especially in the last few months. I would like to thank Chris and Tony for enjoyable classes and Tony (as he was my supervisor) for always being so supportive and fast with his feedback. I really appreciated it.

    Anonymous - student feedback