Foundation Degree in Children's Development and Learning Level 5 Foundation Degree

Year 1 (Level 4) Modules include:

• Theories of learning and development
• Child in society 1
• Partnership with parents
• Learning spaces & Professional Skills in the Children's Workforce

Year 2 (Level 5) Modules include:

• Practitioner research
• Child in society 2
• Creativity and critical thinking
• Supporting learning and development 0 - 11 years
• International perspectives (optional)
• Leadership in the children's workforce (optional).

Enrichment activities include visits to other settings, trips and outside speakers.

This course operates using a blended learning approach where part of some units may be delivered online via Microsoft Teams. To participate in this programme you will need a suitable computer and/or device with sufficient internet access. Specific requirements and information on the support available to borrow or purchase equipment can be discussed at interview.

All applicants must be 18 years or above, working at least 2.5 days in a relevant setting within the workforce.

English Language and Maths GCSE at grade C (or 4) or Level 2 equivalent.

All candidates will be invited for interview as part of the application process. Any candidate who does not fully meet the entry criteria (e.g. who does not have maths GCSE, a Level 3 vocational qualification, or the specified amount of full-time work experience, but may have significant part-time work placement and/or volunteering experience and be able to demonstrate their ability to produce written work that meets the required level) is invited to submit their application, which will be considered on a case by case basis.

A Level 3 qualification in a work-related area.

Working at least 2.5 days a week with children in a relevant setting.

2 years' experience (which may include voluntary work and/or a placement completed as part of a vocational qualification) of working directly with children within the Children's Workforce, for example, in a registered early years setting or in a school as a teaching assistant

This course will support you in developing your academic as well as your professional skills. Independent study skills and good time management skills are needed. Students are University of Reading students who are given a full campus card and are able to access Readings library and Study Advice support services.

You should be familiar with basic computer functions and applications including Microsoft Windows and Office. Parts of your programme will be delivered using Microsoft Teams. Training for this application will be provided.

Foundation Degree (FdEd) in Children's Development and Learning Level 5

There is guaranteed progression to the BA in Children's Development and Learning at the University of Reading on successful completion of the Foundation Degree. Progression to Early Years Professional Status (EYPS), Higher Level Teaching Assistant, or Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) is possible through further work-based study at the University of Reading.

Students attend College for one afternoon into early-evening session a week. Teaching is through lectures, seminars and workshops, and makes full use of the University of Reading virtual learning platform (Blackboard) for extending discussions and sharing resources. A range of course work is used for assessment - essays, presentations, reports and Wikis. Each module also has an element of work-based assessment through guided professional discussion. The optional modules are taught using blended learning methods of teaching and assessment.

Independent study and research to support the sessions delivered at College by your tutors.

The tuition fee for this programme is £4,625 per year. There is an annual student association fee of £15. At times, students are offered the opportunity to participate in external visits, which may require additional entrance fees and coach costs. Further details will be discussed during induction.