Early Years

Foundation Degree Education Studies: Early Years in partnership with Bath Spa University

In a rapidly changing and expanding sector this course is an opportunity for continuing professional development if you are working with young children. The course leads to a recognised, sector-endorsed qualification.

You are eligible for the course if you have at least two years' experience and present employment within the Early Childhood sector and a Level 3 qualification in Early Years, Childcare or Playwork.

You will attend College for one day a week in term-times for two years and your current work experience also forms part of your degree.

You can apply to the Foundation Degree at City of Bath College through application to UCAS and an interview at City of Bath College. The
degree is awarded by Bath Spa University.

UCAS code: X310
Institution code: B20
Campus code: E

Course Structure
The course consists of seven modules of study over two years - three reflective practitioner modules (based in your workplace) and four academic modules taught in college, which are:
• The child and childhood
• Making learning visible
• Holistic development and learning
• Working together

Methods of Study
Your taught sessions take place at City of Bath College although you also have access to the facilities of Bath Spa University, particularly the excellent library.

These sessions will include lectures, seminars, workshops and tutorials. Visits to a variety of early years settings and visiting lecturers with particular expertise will also form part of the course.

Seminar discussions in class, particularly for the reflective practitioner modules of the course, enable you to incorporate your work experience and knowledge with your College based study.

Throughout the programme, you will receive support and guidance from your tutors to help ensure you obtain the most from your studies.

Assessment
You will be assessed for each of the course modules through a range of methods which include written assignments in the form of portfolios, essays, book reviews, investigative reports and child studies, as well as individual and group seminar presentations and
discussions.

Your workplace-based modules are also assessed by visiting tutors (from City of Bath College) and a chosen mentor.

Progression Opportunities
Although the Foundation Degree is a stand-alone (career-related) qualification in its own right, students successfully completing this course may be eligible to progress to the third year of an appropriate Honours degree programme at Bath Spa University, subject
to a place being available; for example BA Honours degrees in Education or Early Years Education.

This may include the opportunity to receive training for Early Years Professional Status (EYPS), a qualification for senior positions within the birth to five years sector.

While the University is committed to enabling Foundation Degree students to progress, in the event of there being insufficient places to accommodate all students who have applied, applicants will be subject to a selection process which will be based on achievement during the Foundation Degree.

Students are also able to apply to other institutions (through UCAS) for entry onto second or third year of other related degree programmes.

On successful completion of an Honours Degree you may be able to progress to a PGCE teacher training course.

Entry Requirements
Appropriate accredited Level 3 qualification (for example A-levels or vocational qualifications) in Early Years, Childcare or Playwork (or equivalent).
If you wish to progress on to the Early Years Professional Status (EYPS) course you will need English and Maths GCSE at grade C or above.
PLUS, At least two years experience of working (and currently working) in the sector. Candidates will be assessed on an individual basis.

Please be aware that you will be required to complete a new Criminal Records Bureau Enhanced Disclosure application through Bath Spa University as part of the admissions process for this course.

For further information please contact Theresa Waterhouse, Course Leader, on 01225
328649 or email: waterhouset@citybathcoll.ac.uk

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