Educational Practice FdA

Program Overview

This flexible Foundation Degree in Education is designed for teaching assistants and professionals seeking a career in teaching. It combines academic study with practical experience, building on existing classroom knowledge and skills. Assessments include essays, case studies, and reflections on workplace learning, while teaching is primarily delivered part-time through partner colleges in collaboration with university lecturers. The program offers a pathway to further teacher training or various employment options in the education sector.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

This is a flexible Foundation degree designed for teaching assistants or those working in similar educational roles. It aims to provide the professional qualification needed for a career in teaching. The program combines academic study with practical experience, building on existing classroom experience to develop knowledge, skills, and expertise for working with pupils, adults, and teachers. It offers degree-level study delivered within a partner college.

Assessment:

Assessments are designed to help students reflect on their practice and that of their workplace. The program utilizes a variety of assessment methods to cater to diverse learner needs. These methods include:

• Essays
• Case studies
• Portfolios
• Presentations
• Reflections on work-based learning
Assignments are directly linked to teaching sessions, and lecturers provide support through tutorials and in-class activities. Developmental assessment opportunities are offered through peer assessment and individual/group tutorials. Guidance on completing assignments is provided through:
• The university virtual learning environment (BREO)
• Assessment handbooks
• Workshops
• Seminars
• Assessment Briefs

Teaching:

• The course is delivered by the Bedford College Group, in both Bedford and Kettering.
It is also delivered by the Buckinghamshire College Group at their Aylesbury campus.
• Study is part-time and encompasses one evening per week for the duration of the course, at the chosen college center.
• Students are welcomed onto University campus throughout their degree to join a larger group of students for specific study sessions, such as Forest School and Sensory Centre experiences.

Careers:

• This course is the first step towards following a Primary PGCE School Direct or SCITT route to Qualified Teacher Status (if the required GCSE grades in maths, English, and science are met).
A transition program of events and activities helps prepare students for this path.
• For those who do not wish to progress to the full degree, there are various employment options in education, such as:
• Teaching assistant
• Higher-level teaching assistant
• SEND support
• Teaching and learning support within a school in Reception or key stage 1

Other:

• The course is delivered in partnership with a University/college.
The degree is awarded by the University of Bedfordshire.
• The University of Bedfordshire has well-established partnerships with over 500 schools and other associated organizations, placing them at the forefront of educational developments.
• The course has the option to be taken over four years, including a year placement in industry.
This placement year offers practical experience, CV building, and networking opportunities. This integrated four-year degree provides guaranteed progression to undergraduate study at Bedfordshire.
• The course includes facilities such as:
• Forest School
• Specialist Early Years and Sensory Centre
• Multi-media space for webinars and podcasting