Foundation Degree in Childrens Development and Learning

This course enables you to develop the skills to progress in your career working with children, alongside your job. It is aimed at early years and education practitioners who are working with children up to the age of 11 and requires you to be released from your setting to attend Berkshire College of Agriculture (BCA) for a twilight session once a week. (1.15pm until 7.30pm). This vocational award is a work-based course, and your assignments and lessons are all designed to benefit your professional development. Youll build upon your experience through modules in areas such as child development, safeguarding, creativity and critical thinking, and working in partnership with parents. College sessions include lectures, as well as tutorials and seminars. The course also incorporates a great deal of group work, which will be an opportunity to share experiences with fellow professionals working in a range of settings. There is plenty of support available to help you get the most out of your course. You will be given an academic tutor who will have regular one-to-one meetings with you. Youll also nominate someone from within your own workplace, such as a manager or colleague, to become your mentor. Additionally, youll benefit from small learning groups and access to facilities and support at both BCA and the University of Reading.

You must be working at least 2.5 days a week in a relevant education or care setting, and are normally expected to have obtained: An NQF Level 3 qualification in a work-related area; GCSE English Language at a grade C (grade 4) or above; GCSE Maths at a grade C (grade 4) or above; At least 2 years experience of working within the Childrens Workforce Any candidate who does not fully meet the entry criteria is invited to submit their application, considered on a case-by-case basis.

Year 1 core modules: Theories of development and learning The child in society (1) Learning spaces Partnership with parents Professional Skills in the Childrens workforce Year 2 core modules: Practitioner research The child in society (2) Creativity and critical thinking Supporting development and learning for 0-11 years Optional modules include: International perspectives Leadership in the childrens workforce

Through reflective accounts, essays, reports, presentations, e-portfolio, group wiki and a research project during the second year.

This course aims to develop your reflective and analytical skills and increase your self-confidence. It will enable you to build on your experience as a practitioner and develop new strategies for supporting children and working alongside colleagues and parents. As a graduate you will be well-placed to take on increased responsibility within the workplace and move into management roles.