Childhood Studies (Disability and Education Pathway) Foundation Degree

The Childhood Studies (Disability and Education Pathway) Foundation Degree is designed for those working or volunteering with children and young people in education, SEND, and disability-related settings. Throughout the course, students build a strong understanding of childhood development, inclusive education, safeguarding, rights-based practice, and current policy.

You will explore topics such as disability and the law, mental health and additional needs, neurodiversity, and supporting social and emotional development, gaining knowledge directly relevant to professional practice. The programme combines academic study with practical, work-related learning, enabling students to connect theory with real-world experience. Modules develop essential skills in communication, collaboration, reflection, and ethical practice, as well as academic, digital, and information literacy.

Students also learn to work effectively with other professionals and services supporting children and families. By the end of the course, learners are equipped with the knowledge, practical insight, and professional skills needed to progress in education and disability-related careers, as well as a strong foundation for further study, including progression to Level 6 degree-level qualifications.

Modules/Highlights:

Level 4 Modules:
• Academic & Professional Skills
• Safeguarding & Early Intervention
• Disability & the Law
• Inclusivity & SEND
• Reflecting on Professional Practice
• Mental Health & Additional Needs Level 5 Modules:
• Academic & Professional Development
• Collaborative Practice
• Neurodiversity
• SEND in Practice
• Developing Critical Reflection
• Supporting Social & Emotional Needs

Progression
On successful completion of the Foundation Degree, students may progress to BA (Hons) Childhood Studies (Top-Up), selecting the aligned pathway (including Disability and Education).

The programme also supports progression within employment into roles with increased responsibility, subject to employer requirements and sector expectations.

Career Opportunities:
Teaching Assistant, SEN Support Worker, Early Years Practitioner, Youth Worker

Level 4 Modules:
• Academic & Professional Skills
• Safeguarding & Early Intervention
• Disability & the Law
• Inclusivity & SEND
• Reflecting on Professional Practice
• Mental Health & Additional Needs Level 5 Modules:
• Academic & Professional Development
• Collaborative Practice
• Neurodiversity
• SEND in Practice
• Developing Critical Reflection
• Supporting Social & Emotional Needs

To work as a teacher at a state school in England or Wales, you will need to achieve qualified teacher status (QTS). This is offered on this course for the following level:

• Course does not award QTS