Peep at Ayrshire College: Early learning and childcare students

Why Ayrshire College made Peep part of its early years training: "It's not an add-on. It's essential."

Preparing students for careers in early years requires more than classroom learning. They need opportunities to work directly with children and families, build confidence and see what effective family engagement looks like in practice.

For Ayrshire College, Peep has become an important part of that preparation. By delivering regular Peep-inspired sessions with local families, students gain first-hand experience of supporting children's learning and development while building the communication and relationship skills employers value.

Watch our video to find out more: 

Bridging the gap between theory and practice

When Caroline McKim joined Ayrshire College as Curriculum Manager and Early Learning and Childcare Lecturer, she identified a challenge familiar to many colleges: students needed more practical experience. Peep offered a structured way to bring families and children into the college environment so students could put theory into practice in a safe, supported setting.

Today, the college runs several Peep-inspired sessions each week, giving students regular opportunities to apply their learning and build professional confidence. As one student explains, seeing the theory ‘come to life’ helps them understand why they are learning it in the first place.

Developing practitioners who understand families

A key strength of the Peep approach is its focus on recognising and building on what families already do to support their children's development. Students learn how to engage parents in conversations about learning, facilitate practical activities and idea-sharing, and build confidence. These skills are increasingly important across early years services, supporting the home learning environment and making the most of the earliest years.

Supporting employability

When students leave, they do so with something many of their peers cannot demonstrate: direct experience of working with both children and families. The college reports that students develop greater confidence, stronger communication skills and a deeper understanding of child development and family engagement. Local authorities recognise the value of this experience and the difference it makes as students enter the workforce.

Benefits beyond the classroom

The Peep sessions also provide a valuable service to local families, offering opportunities for learning, social connection and support. At the same time, college staff benefit from Peep training, resources and professional development, helping them keep their practice current and relevant.

A model that can be rolled out nationwide

At a time when employers are looking for practitioners who can build strong relationships with children and families from day one, Ayrshire College's experience shows how colleges can play a direct role in developing the workforce the sector needs.

As Caroline McKim puts it: "We are influencing our future workforce by using the Peep programme."

Find out more about using Peep in your college or organisation:

> Explore our Peep Training courses for practitioners working with families

>  Attend a free Information session

> Contact our Development managers to arrange a conversation: email [email protected]