Early Years and Education

This exciting and fulfilling course is focused on extending your knowledge, skills and understanding of contemporary issues in the childhood studies sector.

The course blends theory with practice as there is the expectation that you will complete a placement, or be employed, in an early years setting or school for the duration of your studies. The multi-disciplinary programme prepares students for careers in early years and care or primary education as a teaching assistant or class teacher, family support, health and social services.

The course is taught by a highly experienced professional team with expertise in the fields of education and the early years sector. You will have the opportunity to explore theoretical perspectives and work based practice through lectures, workshops, presentations, work based projects, presentations and assignments. There is a strong emphasis on the development of ICT, communication and presentation skills. With the foundation degree in Early Years and Education you may be able to progress on to our top-up qualification, which will provide you with the opportunity to gain a BA (Hons) in Childhood Studies.

If further study is not for you, you may be able to gain senior practitioner status in an early years setting, move into management in a setting or work as a higher level teaching assistant.

These are the modules for the last academic year. These are currently under revalidation so some of these modules can be subject to change

Level 4
Learning and Development
Play, Health and Wellbeing
Researching Childhood
Work-based Learning 1: Professional Practice

Level 5
Supporting Childrens Learning
Safeguarding Children
Embracing Diversity
Work-based Learning 2: Professional Practice

Assessment activities include written essays, poster presentations, portfolio building, article writing, group work, group presentations and a number of practical activities to be carried out in the workplace or placement setting, for instance, child studies, activity planning, implementation of activities and work based learning projects.