Foundation Degree in Education / Foundation Degree in Education (Early Childhood Studies)

*Applications are now open for September 2024 - Please complete an online application via Staffordshire University, click here.

This qualification is awarded by Staffordshire University.

The Foundation Degree offers comprehensive coverage of the knowledge and skills required by those supporting learning and teaching.

It is practical and focused on the workplace. The course develops understanding of teaching and learning, working in education, and behaviour management. It also covers skills required for effective communication, self-development, and career progression.

Part-way throughout the course there is an opportunity to focus your studies. If you have an appropriate level 3 vocational early childhood studies qualification and are working in an early childhood setting you can choose to specialise in early childhood studies - this is a great way to tailor your award to your career aspirations, and further develop your knowledge of educational practice in an early years setting.

On successful completion of study, we will issue the following award if you choose not to specialise: FdA Education

Those who choose to specialise in early childhood studies will be issued with the following award on successful completion of study: FdA Education (Early Childhood Studies).

This course is delivered one day per week on a Thursday evening from 4:30pm - 8.30pm.

This award is for anyone who is currently employed in a learning support situation, for example teaching assistants, bilingual support assistants, learning mentors, cover supervisors, PE and sports coaches, and voluntary helpers in any phase of education from Early Years to Further Education.

All full-time applicants are individually assessed on their qualifications, skills, and experience. However, you would normally

Be in employment (either paid or voluntary) within an educational setting for at least four hours a week.
Have 64 UCAS points or hold an appropriate Level 3 qualification with suitable work experience
GCSE qualifications in English and Maths or demonstration of a level 2 competence.
If English is not your first language you will be expected to have achieved an IELTS score of 6.0 or above

*Eligibility to be counted in the EYFS staff:child ratios at Level 3 require you to hold a relevant EY Level 3 qualification, which should be gained prior to studying this pathway.

Entry will be subject to a successful interview and applicants providing evidence that they have a clear enhanced DBS check which confirms that there are no reasons why a candidate should not work with children.

You must be employed for at least four hours per week in an appropriate educational role and setting. This employment may be paid or voluntary. A letter from your headteacher/principal/head of department/manager must accompany any application. This letter must support the application by confirming your involvement in supporting education and state that every effort will be made to support the applicant in undertaking the work-based activities required by the programme. The letter must also state that you have the appropriate and current Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) clearance.

Please download our "course information" below, for more information about the course.

Modules - Standard route

Modules - Early Childhood Studies

Study time