The Early Years Sector Endorsed Foundation Degree is a 2-year full-time programme combining work-based learning with part-time academic study, therefore allowing you to ‘learn as you earn’. It is a Level 5 qualification and enables you to continue your studies via a ‘top up’ year to gain a BA (Hons) degree. The course modules include child protection, child development, inclusive education and special educational needs, developing resources, evaluating and using ICT for children's learning, and a personal and professional development portfolio.

Please note: The Foundation Degree programme is subject to change following the Kingston University Revised Academic Framework.

Key course features

Qualification: Foundation Degree (Kingston University) JACS Code: X110, Institution Code: K84-campus W

Level: Level 5

Mode: Full-time

Timetable: Tuesdays, 4pm-9.20pm

Start Date: September 2013

Fees: The fee for 2013-14 is to be confirmed. The Kingston University discounted home student fee for 2012-13 was £3,500. This fee is for one year of study and may be subject to change in subsequent years. Visit www.kingston.ac.uk for more details.

International Fees: If you have not been settled in the UK or EU for the last 3 years you may be classed as an international student and will pay higher fees. The international fee for 2013-14 is to be confirmed. Visit www.kingston.ac.uk for more details.

Who is this course for?

This course is designed for professionals who are working with children in maintained or non-maintained settings and is held one day per week from 4pm to 9.20pm. The course is ideal if you want to gain Early Years Professional Status (EYPS) or progress to teacher training.

Entry requirements

The minimum entry requirement is a Level 3 qualfication in early years, e.g. Diploma in Childcare and Education, NNEB, CACHE Level 3 Diploma, NVQ Level 3 or equivalent. You will need to be employed in an appropriate setting and should normally have at least 3 years of experience post Level 3 qualification. Accreditation of Prior Experiential Learning is offered for those who are unsure of the current value of their qualifications. 

You need to fill in an application form and you will also be required to do a written test and attend an interview, which will give you the opportunity to ask detailed questions about the course. If you want more information before you apply, please contact Mary Suantah on 020 8326 2030 or email mary.suantah@west-thames.ac.uk. Alternatively phone our Information, Advice and Guidance Team on 020 8326 2020 or email ciag@west-thames.ac.uk.

About the course

You will attend taught sessions and complete directed tasks as specified in the programme. Teaching and learning will consist of workshops, lectures, seminars, discussion groups, self-assessment and independent study. This will be both college and work-based. You will also have tutorials with a personal tutor, who will meet with you in your group and also for individual sessions.

Year 1 modules – Level 1:

• Personal and professional development portfolio
• Child protection
• Child development (1)
• Inclusive education and special educational needs
• Multi-professional perspectives
• Assessment and assessment systems
• Providing information to support decision-making
• Action research portfolio

Year 2 modules – Level 2/3:

• Child development (2)
• Evaluate and use ICT to support children’s learning and development
• Develop own resources
• Work-based learning
• Work with parents to enhance their children’s learning and development
• Action research portfolio 2
• Action research special project module.

Special project – Level 3.

Please note: The Foundation Degree programme is subject to change following the Kingston University Revised Academic Framework.

How will I be assessed?

You will be assessed through presentations, coursework, specific assignments and observations of children. There is no final exam, but all coursework is internally moderated with Kingston University.

Where next?

When you complete this course you can go on to a ‘top-up’ year of study to gain an honours degree and progress towards Qualified Teacher Status (subject to TTA entry requirements) or EYPS (Early Years Professional Status).

How to apply?

Please apply via www.UCAS.com. Alternatively, you can complete our online application form. We will then contact you to make sure you are suitable for the course and help you to apply.