Early Years & Education Foundation Degree (FdA)
About the course
In your first year, we’ll introduce you to current theories of learning and their application, as well as the research skills you need in order to study children effectively and ethically.
In your second year, you’ll learn about the crucial importance of healthy eating, physical activity and play to children’s well-being. You’ll learn how to safeguard and protect children in line with the English legislation. You’ll observe, develop, carry out and evaluate an action plan to improve practice in your workplace.
*Modules are subject to change and availability.
Entry requirements
UCAS Tariff points from a minimum of 2 A Levels (or equivalent). 2 GCSEs at grade C, or grade 4, or above in English and Maths.
Applicants should have experience working in the Early Years sector.
If English is not your first language you will be expected to demonstrate a certificated level of proficiency of at least IELTS 6.0 (Academic level) or equivalent English Language qualification, as recognised by Anglia Ruskin University.
Alternatives:
UCAS Tariff points acquired from BTEC Level 3 Diplomas are accepted.
Access to HE Diplomas at overall Pass grade are accepted.
Level 3 Childcare qualification.
UCAS Tariff points from the Irish Leaving Certificate are accepted.
UCAS Tariff points from Scottish Highers are accepted.
UCAS Tariff points from Scottish Advanced Highers are accepted.
How much does it cost?
University Centre Harlow currently charges an annual fee of £7750 for all of its degrees.
There are a number of scholarships and bursaries available.
If you are over 19 you may access a student loan for the fees and maintenance.
The Student Finance England website has full details and you can use their calculator to see what help you may be entitled to.
*There may be additional costs for this course
Awarding Body
Anglia Ruskin University
Why study?
This course is for those who would like to work within the Early Years sector. As an Early Years and Education FdA graduate, you’ll be at an advantage when applying for roles in play work, early years and school support.
You might also go on to further study, including topping up to a full honours degree. Do you want to work with young children? Or maybe you already are?
This exciting foundation degree can help you start or advance a rewarding career. It could also help you into further qualifications and even a teaching degree.
Where will this course take me?
- Childminder
- Teacher (with top up degree)
- Early Years Practitioner
- Teaching Assistant
- Nursery Nurse
Core modules
- Learning and Development
- Researching Childhood
- Work based Practice – Professional Practice
*These modules may be subject to change
Optional modules
- Play, Health and Wellbeing
- Safeguarding Children
How will I be assessed?
- Practical Observations
- Course work
- Essays
You’ll be assessed on written work, including essays, a reflective diary, reports, presentations, web discussions and your professional development portfolio. We’ll also check your progress regularly to make sure you’re achieving milestones, and give you any extra support you need.
Will I have to provide anything?
Students are expected to purchase a memory stick and general stationery. Students are also advised to purchase the key textbook for each of their modules (lecturers/tutors will advise on this), although some copies may be available, together with other recommended reading, from the Learning Resource Centre and electronically from the Anglia Ruskin library. There will be a charge of £44 for a DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service) check.
I'm interested. What should I do now?
For general enquiries, or advice, please contact the Harlow College Admissions Advisers on 01279 868100