Foundation Degree (FD) Children’s Development & Learning
This course is aimed at practitioners who hold a relevant Level
3 qualification and have a minimum of two years vocational experience. It is
aimed at those who are wanting to progress into a more supervisory role. Tutors on the Foundation Degree in Children’s Development and Learning will work with you to ensure that you are able to develop the skills and competencies you need to progress in your chosen career. This is a specialist programme aimed at those working or seeking to work in roles associated with children aged 0 – 11 years in educational care settings and primary schools.
A satisfactory DBS and two years of relevant childcare experience is also required for entry on this course.
Attendance is 2 years full-time, 1 day per week.
UCAS Code: 49TB
UCAS Institution Code: Y70
| Level 4 | Level 5 |
|---|---|
| Professional and Academic Competence | Children in Society |
| Legal and Professional Aspects | Health and Well-being |
| Promoting Inclusive Practice | Social Policy and Childhood Education |
| Learning and Development | Children’s Play and Exploration |
Entry requirements
32 UCAS Tariff points - Level 3 qualification in a relevant subject or A Levels. GCSE grade 4 or equivalent in Maths and English Language.
Applicants with significant relevant prior learning and experience will be considered. Applicants must attend an interview.
How will I be assessed?
This course has a variety of assessments, including presentations, written essay, reports, seminar papers and portfolios. These assessments will be linked to your setting.
Skills you will learn
Students will learn the following skills during their courses; ability to explore, discuss and analyse practice regarding theory, critically apply current theory, communication skills, recognise good practice, practical work-related learning activities, collaborative group work, organisational and time management skills and problem solving.
Method of delivery
The teaching, learning and assessment methods are designed to enable progress through the programme levels. Group and individual tasks, lectures and workshops will develop your understanding of academic writing and reflective practice at Level 4 and 5 whilst developing your knowledge of learning and development with children aged 0 – 11 years. This course will be taught face-to-face.
Additional costs
No additional costs are expected for this course, although students should have access to an internet enabled laptop or PC.
Your next steps
Successful completion of the FD Children’s Development and Learning will enable you to enrol on the BA (Hons) Leading Children’s Development and Learning (Top-up) to convert your qualification into a full honours degree.
You could gain employment in a more supervisory role within your organisation or elsewhere in a number of roles including:
• EYFS Practitioner
• Play Therapy Assistant
• Teaching Assistant
• Family Support Worker
• Play Worker
• Nursery Assistant
The FD Children’s Development & Learning course fits perfectly around my work schedule, going into College one afternoon/evening a week and being local to the area is an added bonus for me. I greatly appreciate our 1-1 tutorials to discuss our progress moving forwards, setting goals, and emerging knowledgeable practitioners. Our tutors this year have been very supportive and engaging and we have developed a lot, especially in our academic writing, research projects and presentation and seminar skills.
Lyn has been a lecturer with the Early Years and Education team for 10 years. Lyn has previously worked in other colleges and has occupational experience working with young children.
Liza has been a lecturer with the Early Years and Education team for four years. Liza has experience in working in the field of childcare in a leadership role as she managed a private day nursery for many years prior to working at college. She has over 15 years vocational experience and completed her BA within the College environment alongside full-time employment.
BA (Hons) Leading Children’s Development & Learning (Top-up)
University Centre
Courses for Adults
Subject Area
Early Years & Education
Study Mode
Full-time
Start Date
September 2025
Duration
1 Year
Level
Level 6
Teacher Training: PGCE/CertEd
University Centre
Subject Area
Early Years & Education
Study Mode
Full-time or part-time
Start Date
September 2025
Duration
1 Year full-time or 2 Years part-time
Level
