Foundation Degree (FdA) in Early Years Practice

By linking current research and child development theory to professional practice, the course offers a professional development opportunity to those working in early years and childcare. There are established relationships with local and regional employers.

Whilst applications are considered on an individual basis, offers are usually based on a requirement to have:

64 UCAS points
Level 3 qualification in a relevant subject
Other related level 3 qualifications
4 GCSEs at grade C (grade 4) or above, including maths and English
Access to Higher Education Diploma in a relevant area

Related work experience will be considered in the absence of level 3 equivalent qualifications.

The combination of study with workplace learning offers an opportunity to link theory and practice, develop understanding of how children learn, and develop and explore aspects of social policy that affects children and their families.

A range of assessment methods are used including reports, essays, presentations, and portfolios. Typically, each module comprises one assessment, carefully designed to support and develop skills in independent thinking and learning.

Upon successful completion, students may apply to the BA (Hons) Level 6 Top up Childhood Studies, studied at the University Centre- Stockport College. Opportunities for career progression include management positions, PGCE Primary qualification routes, and Early Years teacher Status (EYTS).

Graduates may pursue careers across a wide range of roles in the children and young people's sector, including:

Early years manager
Nursery manager
Youth worker
Teaching assistant
Safeguarding
Special needs and disability (SEN/SEND)

At Level 4, the following modules will be studied:

The enabling practitioner in the 21st century
The reflective student
Learning and development
Working together
Pioneers and pedagogies- influences in the early years curriculum
Effective teamwork

At Level 5, the following modules will be studied:

The critically reflective student
Safeguarding in practice
Leadership and management
Research theory and practice
Positive relationships
Practitioners as play partners

All candidates who are accepted for the programme will be expected to produce a current, valid, enhanced DBS certificate. If they do not hold one, then they will complete an application form which will be forwarded to the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) for a check under the Disclosure of Criminal Background - Protection of Children Act by the college staff. There will be a charge for this.

Sheffield Hallam University

As a full time student, you will attend one day per week, spend two days in an appropriate setting, and use the remaining time for independent study.

2 years

Students will complete six modules each year, three each semester over 30 weeks. This is the equivalent of 240 credits over the duration of the course.

For further information please email HEenquiries@tcg.ac.uk

Although every care has been taken to ensure that the information contained within this document is accurate, there may be changes to this programme and provision. We will endeavour to keep prospective and current students updated where appropriate and when the information becomes available.