Professional Practice in Childhood Studies (Foundation Degree)

Preparing you for the ever-evolving needs of employers in the early-years sector, this two-year foundation degree gives you the skills and attributes you need for a successful career in childhood education and care.

Taught in the evenings to support paid work or volunteering with children up to the age of eight, this course brings together theory and practice to support your development as a practitioner.

You’ll have access to our facilities including a simulated early years room and Forest School Training Centre. We focus on building practical skills while you learn, creating a clear pathway for a top-up qualification with Graduate Practitioner Status or other professional education routes.

Why study at Hull?

• Boost your career potential: Our accelerated two-year foundation programme is endorsed by SEFDEY (Sector Endorsed Foundation Degree in Early Years), and is recognised by the Department for Education as a ‘full and relevant qualification’.

• Specialise in early years: As well as following the central programme, you can opt to take an optional Early Years Educator (EYE) pathway.

• Fits around your work and life: We teach this course in the evenings to help you balance your studies with work, volunteering and family life.

Where could this take me?

After graduating with your foundation degree, you’ll be ready to explore a range of opportunities in children’s services.

Past graduates have taken up roles that support children with additional needs or in secure communities, as social or family support workers, or progress as practitioners in early years and community services.

This degree can also open up opportunities for further postgraduate study including Graduate Practitioner Status.

Core modules include:
Early Child Development: Theory into Practice
Foundations for Academic Practice
Social Inclusion
Safeguarding and Promoting the Wellbeing of Babies, Children and Families
Play and Learning
Supporting Children and Babies with SEND
Professional Reflective Practice: Transitions

You'll be assessed through a combination of written, practical and coursework assessments throughout your degree.

Written assessment typically includes exams and multiple choice tests.

Practical is an assessment of your skills and competencies. This could include presentations, school experience, work experience or laboratory work.

Coursework typically includes essays, written assignments, dissertations, research projects or producing a portfolio of your work.