Course description
If you are currently working in an Education and Early Years setting with children between ages 0-8 years and want to gain a qualification that will help your professional progression, the Sector-Endorsed Foundation Degree in Early Years enables you to combine academic study with learning at your place of work. This course is accredited by Kingston University.
If you do not already hold Early Years Educator Status from your Level 3 qualification, we offer the Early Years (with Early Years Educator) pathway which is classified as a 'full and relevant' qualification by the Department for Education (UCAS code: X120).
Once you complete this course, you can top-up your qualification to a full BA (Hons) degree, through one year's study at Kingston University.
Suitability - Who should attend?
This degree is specifically designed for early years practitioners who have a Level 3 qualification..
If you do not hold Early Years Educator Status already, you will need the equivalent of 72 UCAS tariff points from your Level 3 qualifications.
You must be working at least 16 hours per week with babies and children from birth to five years old within an early years setting.
You also require three passes at GCSE grade C/4 or above (which should include Mathematics and English Language) or a minimum of Level 2 Key Skills in Communication and Application of Number.
The selection process involves interview at your chosen institute, selection exercises and a current DBS check.
Training Course Content
You will attend taught sessions and complete directed tasks as specified in the programme. Teaching and learning will consist of workshops, lectures, seminars, discussion groups, self-assessment and independent study. This will be both college and work-based. You will also have tutorials with a personal tutor, who will meet with you in your group and also for individual sessions.
You will study:
Year 1 modules (four 8-week modules at Level 4):
- Personal and professional development through reflective practice
- Child protection and ethical practices of working with children
- Child development, observation and assessment
- Reflective Professional Practice Record
- Inclusive education and interprofessional perspectives.
Year 2 modules (four 8-week modules at Level 5):
- Historical and international perspectives of early years education
- Early years pedagogy and practice
- Effective Communication skills
- Reflective Professional Practice Record
- Special project
Course delivery details
Assessment is coursework based, including presentations, essays, reports, child studies, self assessment and a special project. You will also complete a portfolio of assessed practice (RPPR).
Continuing Studies
You will be supported in your second year of the Foundation Degree to progress onto one of Kingston's one year BA (Top Up) courses, there are three to choose from. Upon successful completion of the third year, you will achieve an honours degree