Program Overview
The Foundation Degree in Early Years Studies equips individuals working with young children with specialist knowledge in early years education and child development. Combining academic study with work experience, the program prepares students for multi-disciplinary teamwork and leadership roles in early years settings. Upon completion, students can gain direct entry into top-up pathways for a full BA(Hons) degree or pursue various employment options in leadership and management within early years contexts.
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
This Foundation Degree in Early Years Studies is designed for individuals working with young children in settings such as pre-schools, childminding, day nurseries, or children's centers. It combines academic study with work experience, preparing students to work in multi-disciplinary teams in early years settings. Upon completion, students have direct entry to one of the University's one-year top-up pathways (Early Years, SEND, or Education), enabling them to gain a full BA (Hons) degree.
Objectives:
The course aims to equip students with specialist knowledge and skills around early years education and child development. It also aims to develop students' professional practice and prepare them for leadership and management roles within early years settings.
Assessment:
The assessment strategy emphasizes personalized formative assessment to maximize the outcomes of summative assessment. A variety of assessment types are used to engage different learning approaches. Students are marked against level-specific marking grids and receive feedback on their strengths and areas for improvement.
Teaching:
Students attend weekly online sessions that are enhanced and supported by independent tasks assigned by unit tutors. There are six Saturday study days throughout the academic year, offering a unique mix of group work, tutor-led sessions, and cross-course collaboration. Students on the Foundation degree with Early Years Educator are supported by a designated University mentor and workplace observation tutor who helps arrange and support work-based observations of practice.
Careers:
Upon completion of the Foundation Degree, students have the opportunity to continue their studies at degree level through the University of Bedfordshire's Applied Early Years Studies (top-up) BA (Hons). They can then choose to follow a Primary PGCE or School Direct program to gain Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) or Early Years Teacher Status (EYTS). Alternatively, students can pursue various employment options, including leadership and management roles within early years settings.
Other:
The Early Years Educator qualification has Department for Education accreditation. The course benefits from well-established partnerships with over 500 schools and other associated organizations, putting the University at the forefront of educational developments. Work-based learners have the opportunity to be part of the Students' Union-affiliated Work-based Learning Student Society. The Bedford campus is a small, thriving academic community where academic staff get to know students well. Students benefit from the support of a personal tutor, a unit and course coordinator, and experienced library staff.
University of Bedfordshire
Overview:
The University of Bedfordshire is a public university with multiple campuses across Bedfordshire, including Luton, Bedford, and Aylesbury. It offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across various disciplines. The university is known for its commitment to providing high-quality teaching and a supportive learning environment.
Services Offered:
The university provides a comprehensive range of services to its students, including:
Accommodation:
On-campus accommodation options are available through university-accredited partners.Careers and Employability Service:
Support is offered to students throughout their time at the university to help them prepare for their future careers.Student Support:
A variety of support services are available to students, including academic support, mental health support, and financial assistance.Sport:
The university has a dedicated sports department offering various sports teams, a get active program, and gym membership.Community & Faith:
The university welcomes people of all faiths and beliefs and offers personal and spiritual support to students.Student Life and Campus Experience:
The university offers a vibrant and diverse campus experience with opportunities for students to get involved in various activities, including:
Student Union (Beds SU):
The student union provides a range of services and activities to enhance the student experience.University News and Events:
Students can stay up-to-date with the latest news and events happening at the university.Social and Cultural Activities:
The university offers a variety of social and cultural activities for students to participate in.Key Reasons to Study There:
High-Quality Teaching:
The university is committed to providing high-quality teaching and learning experiences.Supportive Learning Environment:
The university provides a supportive and inclusive learning environment for all students.Strong Industry Links:
The university has strong links with industry, providing students with opportunities for work placements and internships.Diverse Student Body:
The university has a diverse student body, creating a rich and multicultural learning environment.Academic Programs:
The university offers a wide range of academic programs, including:
Business and Management:
Business Administration, International Business, Marketing, Human Resource Management, Finance, and more.Health and Social Sciences:
Nursing, Midwifery, Social Work, Psychology, Public Health, and more.Education and Teaching:
Primary Education, Secondary Education, Special Educational Needs, Early Years Studies, and more.Creative Arts, Technologies, and Science:
Art and Design, Animation, Film Production, Computer Science, Engineering, and more.Other:
The university has a strong commitment to research and innovation, with dedicated research institutes and areas of expertise. It also actively engages with the local community through various initiatives and partnerships.
Entry Requirements:
48 UCAS tariff points including 32 from at least 1 A-level or equivalent. An Enhanced DBS check is required. Applicants must be working (or volunteering) within an appropriate setting for a minimum of one day per week for the duration of the course.
