Introduction
3 years part-time
This programme is offered at Stratford-upon-Avon College in partnership with the University of Warwick. It has been designed in order to meet the professional needs of employees in the Early Years Sector.
The Foundation Degree provides an opportunity for people who are working with young children in an educational/child care setting to develop their professional understanding, knowledge and key skills whilst still working.
What the Course Will Cover
The Foundation Degree consists of credited work-based experience and taught elements. These include:
Level 1
- Study Skills and ICT
- How children learn and develop
- Stories and story telling
- Working with parents and other professionals
- Special educational needs and inclusion
- Supporting children’s learning in the foundation stage
- Accreditation of prior experiential learning
Level 2
- Safeguarding children and protecting their rights
- Workplace based project
- Supporting children’s personal, social and emotional development in the Early Years
- Supporting children’s learning in Key Stage 1
- Using Information and Communication Technology to support children’s learning and development
- Early Years policy, practice and decision making
- Assessing children’s learning in the Early Years
Who Should Enrol?
Applicants for this programme will already be employed in the Early Years Sector (teaching assistants, nursery nurses in early years care & education, play-work, and others) and employer support and involvement is essential. Applicants need, therefore, to be in appropriate employment, supported by their employer, as well as being available to attend taught sessions.
Key Benefits
The programme has been developed in response to government policy. This is currently placing increasing emphasis upon supporting children and families, especially in the pre-school years setting and will provide a progression route from NVQ Level 3 and Diploma courses. It is designed to encourage continuous professional development and to be linked to degree programmes.
The programme will enhance career prospects for those who work with young children, for example, by providing the basis for an alternative route into teaching or other careers involving work with young children and families that will enable participants to continue working.