Foundation Degree in Children’s Development and Learning
The Foundation Degree (FDEd) provides a model of vocational higher education based on close collaboration between employers and providers of higher education. It is intended for people with at least two years’ experience of working in an institution within the care and education sectors, such as early years practitioners, play-workers, teaching assistants or learning support assistants. The focus is on skills and their application in the workplace, underpinned by academic knowledge and understanding.
The expectation is that the majority of students successfully completing the programme will continue to work in their settings or schools. If students follow further study, they may obtain an honours degree followed by Qualified Teacher Status or Early Years Professional Status.
This is a two year, work-based qualification which covers children’s development from the early years to the end of Primary education. It requires the support of your setting
as well as attendance at college for one day a week (and occasionally, Saturdays). Sessions are conducted during the day from 9 am to 3 pm on either a Tuesday or Thursday depending on the year of entry. Assessment is by college-based assignments and there are also work-based tasks which are assessed by a mentor as well as your tutor.
Programme Content
Year One Core Modules
- Theories of learning and development
- Professionalism in children’s workforce
- Child in Society (1)
- Partnership with Parents
- Learning spaces
- Effective Communication
- Action Research
- Child in Society (2)
- Creativity and Critical Thinking
- Supporting Learning and Development for 0-11 years
- International perspective - blended learning module
- Leadership in the Children's Workforce
Entry qualifications
GCSE level C or above in English Language and GCSE level C or above in Maths or NFQ level 2; and a level 3 qualification in a related subject. Qualification in a work related area or equivalent qualifications are acceptable. You need to have at least 2 years experience of working in an Early Years, childcare or school setting
Click here to view the Reading University course information.
Fees
- Course fees are advised by the University of Reading and rise incrementally each year. The fees for 2011/2012 will be £3,375. This would be reviewed annually.
- There are grants and bursaries available or students can take out student loans which are paid back at the end of the course when the student earns more than £15,000.
Progression
Progression is to the BA in Children’s Development and Learning. Progression to Early Years Professional Status (EYPS) or Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) is possible through further work-based study at the University of Reading
Other universities such as Bucks New University, Oxford Brookes, Winchester and the Open University may also run suitable progression routes.
If you are interested, please email Hilary Harris at: hharris@bca.ac.uk or Era Singh at: esingh@bca.ac.uk or telephone direct dial on 01628 827496.
