Courses

Foundation Degree in Early Years (awarded by Kingston University)

When & Where

19 September 2024 - 6 June 2025 ( 225 hours, 30 weeks )
North Kensington Centre

Quick Facts

Availability Yes
Course Code K24ESWA01A
Suitable For 19 year olds and up are permitted on this course

What you will learn

Have you always thought about doing a degree and wish you could find a way to work and study together? Well here is the ideal qualification that allows you to do both and gain a nationally recognised qualification. Foundation Degrees are higher education qualifications which combine academic study with work-based learning. They provide a training pathway for those who want to remain in work while studying for a higher education award. The Kingston University Foundation Degree in Early Years is a professionally recognised 'full and relevant' two-year degree that is highly valued by employers. This Sector-Endorsed Foundation Degree in Early Years (SEFDEY) approved course combines academic study with work-based learning. It is run in partnership with partner colleges across London and Surrey. The course covers a wide range of critical and contemporary issues in the field of education and other related sectors. It explores international perspectives, child protection, communication theories and multi-professional practice. You will examine theoretical and practice-based knowledge to support approaches to working with children from birth to five years of age in a variety of settings. The course combines work-based practice with theoretical knowledge, covering a wide range of perspectives and current issues in the field of education and other related sectors, relevant for those working in early years settings. You will also explore international perspectives and the latest developments within the field of early years. It provides a route into higher education for experienced and committed early years practitioners, enabling you to progress from level 3 to a foundation degree. Students without Early Years Educator status can obtain this through the Early Years Educator pathway.

Learning Outcomes

By the end of this course, you will be able to:

Personal and professional development through reflective practice (30 credits) this module offers students the opportunity to examine in detail child development theories and key influential pioneers of current practice.
Child development, observation and assessment (30 credits) this module offers students the opportunity to examine in detail child development theories and key influential pioneers of current practice
Child protection and ethical practices of working with children (30 credits) this module introduces students to the legal and ethical requirements for ensuring that all children and young people are protected and make progress in learning and development
Inclusive education and interprofessional perspectives (30 credits) this module introduces students to the statutory requirements for ensuring that children who have additional needs continue to make progress through the curriculum
Early years pedagogy and practice (30 credits) this second year module critically evaluates effective pedagogy and practice with theoretical underpinning in the early years
Historical and international perspectives of early years education (30 credits) this second year module is an exciting opportunity to explore key influencing historical and international theories and systems that are evident in current early practice
Effective communication skills (30 credits) this second year module provides students with the opportunity to develop effective communication skills for different audiences and contexts.
Special project (30 credits) this second year module enables students to extend their professional development in a chosen area of practice within the field of special educational needs and inclusive practice.
On successful completion of the course, you will achieve the following qualification: foundation degree in early year (with early years educator) or foundation degree in early years

On successful completion of the course, you will achieve the following qualification:

Class format and activities

The mode of delivery of the course involves in-centre learning with some online delivery. The Microsoft Teams online platform and supported apps are used to support learning together with videos to review lectures, work-based learning activities, presentations, tutorials, online learning, workshops, critical debates and seminars. In addition, you will be supported by a work-based professional advocate and tutors at Morley College London, with occasional attendance at Kingston University. Progress is measured by assignments, demonstration of professional competence in work-based situations, and practical demonstrations that apply the knowledge you have gained. There are no written exams. When not attending timetabled sessions, you will be expected to continue learning independently through self-study. This typically will involve reading journal articles and books, working on individual and group projects, undertaking preparing coursework assignments and presentations, and preparing for exams. Your independent learning is supported by a range of excellent facilities including online resources, the library and Canvas, the online virtual learning platform.

Entry Requirements

Typical entry requirements are a Level 3 early years qualification (or equivalent), employment in an appropriate setting (either paid or voluntary) for at least 16 hours per week for the duration of the course and normally two years' experience in appropriate early years setting. An enhanced DBS check is also required. Shortlisted applicants will be invited for an interview. We will consider a range of alternative qualifications or experience that are equivalent to the typical offer. Accreditation of Prior Experiential Learning (APEL) is offered for those who are unsure of the current value of their qualifications.

Before you enrol

All students attend college for one evening per week between 3.30 pm and 9.30 pm on a Tuesday or Thursday. The programme provides a unique approach for work-based learners to gain a degree qualification, combining theoretical academic study and work to enhance and deepen knowledge and improve practice. At this level of academic study, at least 90 % attendance and punctuality are required from all students. Application is through UCAS between now and early September or contact Debra Corboy to arrange an interview at the college: debra.corboy@morleycollege.ac.ukThe course is taught by Debra Corboy and Regina Awudey-Tsiagbe. Debra is an experienced senior lecturer in Early Childhood with a passion for fostering a growth mindset and empowering children and students. Debra holds a level 3 license to practice, BA Hons., PGCE, and a Master's in Early Childhood Studies (focusing on Higher Education support for students working with children), Beyond the classroom, Debra is actively involved in child advocacy and progressive policy, volunteers in early years settings, and contributes to broader community initiatives.

What you need

If you are interested in the applying for the Foundation Degree in Early Years, then please apply via UCAS using the link on our webpage. When you apply through UCAS, please ensure you input the Course Code, which is X110 and the Campus Code N. The qualification is awarded by Kingston University. Please note UCAS deadlines do not apply to this qualification. You can apply for student finance at the below link:https://www.gov.uk/student-finance-register-login The course is classified as a full-time, work-based program of study.

What you can do next

Once you have completed this FdA, followed by the BA (Hons) top-up, you will be well-placed to pursue postgraduate opportunities and enhance your professional development in education and related fields. The Foundation Degree in Early Years leads to several possible pathways including:-BA (Hons.) in Early Years Education and Leadership Practice BA (Hons.) in Early Years Teaching and Learning BA (Hons.) in Children’s Special Educational Needs and Inclusive Practice (0-19 years) Many graduates return to Kingston University for postgraduate and CPD studies. These include Early Years Initial Teacher Training leading to Early Years Teacher Status (EYTS), the Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE) leading to Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) and the MRes (Education). Employment opportunities include as Early Years Professionals, Early Years Room Leaders, Outreach Workers, Early Years Managers, Early Years Advisers, Learning Support Play Workers, Primary Teachers (following postgraduate training), Community based Nursery Nurses, Family Support Workers, Unqualified Teachers, Training and development advisers within day care settings/local authorities. More than 99% of students from this course, delivered by Morley College London and awarded by Kingston University, are in employment or further study six months after graduating (DHLE 2016/17).