Foundation Degree in Early Years | Child Development Courses

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FdA Early Years (Child Development)

Introduction

The 2 year full-time Foundation Degree Early Years (Child Development) is designed to meet the needs of Early Years practitioners. The foundation degree in early years focuses on children’s needs in family and community contexts. The child development courses are designed ti supports you to develop an underpinning knowledge of key theories and principles of high quality Early Years provision. It is concerned with empowering you as a practitioner to work with children and families in different contexts. Language and literacy, and working with parents and families, will be a key focus across the programme. You will gain a sound understanding of the importance of the broad Children’s Services agenda including ‘Every Child Matters’, social inclusion and poverty reduction.

Course Code / Duration

UCAS Code

2 Year Foundation Course: X900

Duration

2 years full time (including one day in University College per week, work based tasks and independent study).

Entry Requirements

Current employment in an early years or health setting with 0-8s
Two years experience working with children in an appropriate environment
Level 3 qualification relating to child care and development
4 GCSE’s including grade C or equivalent
Proof of CRB processed by employer

Module Information

Year 1
The modules in Year 1 introduce you to a variety of perspectives on child development in the early years. Throughout the programme we focus on putting the child at the centre of your practice.In your first year you will study 6 modules. These include a module on how to study in Higher Education; Child Development and Play; Collaborative Working and to Safeguard Children; Planning and Delivering the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS): Language and Literacy; and Working with Families in Community Contexts.

Year 2
In your second year you will build on knowledge and understanding from Year 1. You will also undertake supervised independent study in an area of Early Years
practice of special interest to you. This might form the basis of a specialism if you decide to progress to Early Childhood Studies. Year 2 also develops your knowledge and skills for confident professional practice in the children’s workforce and prepares you for Early Years Professional Staus (EYPS) if that is your aim.

Fees and Funding

For current undergraduate fees and funding, please click here

Course Tutors

Zenna Kingdon

Career Opportunities

On successful completion of the Foundation Degree the majority of students progress to top-up their degree to BA (Hons) Early Childhood Studies with EYPS. Students on the Foundation Degree come from a variety of Early Years backgrounds, childminders, preschools, full-daycare, children’s centres and inclusion services. The programme offers opportunities to extend your knowledge and experience as well as great opportunities for networking. A number of students have gained posts of greater responsibility with some moving into different roles in Children’s Services.

Additional Information

You will study at UCP Marjon one day a week. The programme is full-time and you will need the support of your setting to allow you to complete the work-related tasks involved in the programme. There is also a need to study and read for your degree alongside your other commitments.

University College Plymouth St Mark & St John