FdA Early Childhood Studies

Course Description

If you’re committed to making a difference to the lives of children and young people, our courses in Early Childhood Studies are the perfect foundation for your career.

They are designed specifically for people who wish to pursue a career in Early Years care, or who are already working in that sector. So if you know that working with young people is your passion, this is the course for you.

The course includes modules in the following areas in the first year:

• Maths, Science and the Child
• Language, Literacy and the Child
• Play and Learning
• Learning and Development
• Professional Practice and the Workplace
• Applied Social Science
  
  

The second year covers:

• Early Years Curriculum
• Professional Practice
• Regulatory and Legislative Framework for Early Years Services
• Working with Children and Families
• Independent Study
• Special Study
  
  

In the course of your studies, you will complete two work placements that give you a valuable insight into how the sector works, and enhance your employability. In your second year, you will also complete a research project in a subject of your choice.

Teaching and Assessment

There are no examinations on this course, and each module is assessed by means of assignments. We offer you comprehensive study skills support throughout your time at College, to help maximise your chances of success.

Teaching sessions take the form of short lectures, supervised discussions, small group work and presentations.

Progression Opportunities

On successful completion of the FdA course you may be able to progress to the BA (Hons) Early Childhood Studies or the BSc (Hons) Health and Social Care Management degree (progression route subject to approval), delivered at Somerset College.

You could also apply to Plymouth University to join the final year of the BA (Hons) Education Studies degree. Please note there is a deadline for progression applications and places may be subject to availability.

Following this you may progress to postgraduate studies.

Career Progression

The Foundation Degree can lead to employment in family support and project working in a range of Early Years settings. You could also start a career as a children’s centre worker, home/school liaison worker, early years worker, primary school worker or family advice liaison worker. Our graduates have also progressed to teacher training at primary level.

Entry Requirements

Applicants for the Foundation Degree require a Level 3 qualification. This typically includes AS/A2 Levels (minimum 160 points include 80 at A2), a CACHE or BTEC National Diploma, Access Certificate and NVQ Level 3 in a relevant subject. Candidates are also required to have a minimum of Grade C in English Language and Mathematics.

Mature students who do not meet these formal entry requirements are welcome to apply, if they can evidence their interest in the field of study.

Due to the nature of these courses, you will be required to undergo a Disclosure and Barring Service check (formerly known as CRB) prior to commencing any placement work.