Foundation Degree in Early Years

About this course

This course is for those who are currently working or volunteering in an early years setting and want to gain a qualification that will help professional progression. You can “learn as you earn” by combining workplace learning with part-time study.

The course compromises Level 4 in the first year and Level 5 in the second, leading to a top up Level 6 year at Kingston University which results in a BA(Hons) degree.

The degree is designed for those who are working or volunteering with young children in a range of settings and roles. Roles may include, but are not limited to: Early Years Practitoner, Childminder, Nursery Supervisor/manager, pre-school or Playgroup staff, Play Workers or Teaching Assistants/Learning Support Assistants. 

How to apply

Firstly, make an application to the Universities and College Admissions Service (UCAS) by applying through the UCAS website or contact Brooklands College to request an application pack and further information.

UCAS Code X110 and X120

What will the course involve?

This course will equip you with higher level skills and a sound knowledge of areas relevant to your work including local and national statutory frameworks, theories of learning, collaborative working with agencies and families, educational systems and a deeper understanding of child development, observation and assessment. You will reflect upon your practice of working with babies and children from birth to five years with opportunities to explore and develop an in-depth understanding of safeguarding, child protection, ethics and diversity. Flexible study will enable you to engage with a wide range of reading and you will develop essential skills of academic writing, planning your studies, engagement with research and critical reflection and analysis of both your practice and reading.

Current Modules Covered

Modules in Year 1:

• Personal and Professional Development Through Reflective Practice
• Child Development, Observation and Assessment
• Child Protection and Ethical Practices Of Working With Children
• Inclusive Education and Inter-professional Perspectives
• Reflective Professional Practice Record

Modules in Year 2:

• Historical and International Perspectives of Early Years Education
• Early Years Pedagogy and Practice
• Effective Communication Skills
• Special Project
• Reflective Professional Practice Record

University Partner: Kingston University

How to apply

Firstly, make an application to the Universities and College Admissions Service (UCAS) by applying through the UCAS website or contact Brooklands College to request an application pack and further information.

UCAS Code X110.

What qualifications will I need?

Guidance On Entry Criteria

• Minimum Level 3 (or equivalent) in Early Years
• You must be working or volunteering at least 16 hours per week with babies and children from birth to five years old within an Early Years setting
• Accreditation of Prior Experiential Learning (APEL) is offered to those who are unsure of the current value of their qualifications
• Enquiries from mature students are actively welcomed
• All non-UK applicants must meet our English language requirements. For this course it is Academic IELTS of 6.5 overall

For further information about entry requirements please contact our team on 01932 558310

How much will the course cost?

Additional Costs

Annual Fee: £6,300 each year

Next Steps

Successful completion of a Foundation Degree can provide a route to an Honours Degree (via a “top up” year of study) and the possibility to progress towards Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) and the new Early Years Teaching Status (EYTS), subject to the Training and Development Agency (TDA) requirements.