Early Years Care and Education

The Foundation Degree in Early Years provides an opportunity for experienced practitioners working in Early years settings and Reception classes and students progressing from a relevant level 3 qualification to gain a professional and academic qualification which is recognised nationally and locally within the sector. Learning is supported through carefully planned assignments closely linked to daily practice. Attendance is 2 evenings a week and 7 Saturday workshops

What previous qualifications or experience do I need?
Minimum of 64 UCAS points (160 old system) from a BTEC Level 3 Diploma or Extended Diploma / A Levels / Foundation Diploma / Access Diploma in a related subject, a satisfactory reference.
Successful completion of a Level 3 qualification in Early Years or Childcare. Working within an early years setting in a supervisory or leadership position( or working towards). Applicants must be involved in at least 12 hours / week of activity focused time with groups of children. They must have agreement from the workplace/employer to support the them through workplace learning facilitations, including provision of learning and assessment opportunities required by the course. Applicants must have a current and valid Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) report. There will be a charge for a DBS ( formally CRB Criminal Records Bureau) check if students are not currently employed in their setting.

What qualification will I achieve?
The Foundation Degree in Early Years validated by the University of East Anglia

What can I do after completing this course?
Once you have completed this course you will be a well-equipped practitioner to take on either a formal leadership role within the setting or a role which focuses on training, mentoring or supporting staff in the workplace. You may choose to complete your academic studies with us by continuing onto the Level 6 BA (Hons) in Early Years Care and Education validated by the University of East Anglia

In 2024 we were awarded an exceptional 94% National Student Survey (NSS) rating. Every university in the UK takes part in the NSS, as do many colleges. This survey gathers students’ opinions on the quality of their courses which helps to inform prospective students’ choices and provide data that supports universities and colleges to improve the student experience. East Sussex College University Courses is very proud of our extremely high score. The NSS is managed by the OfS on behalf of the UK funding and regulatory bodies.

During the course you will study modules that will relate directly to your workplace, and allow you to put your learning into practice. You will understand the process of learning for children and young people, study language and literacy development, and fully understand safeguarding, welfare, and wellbeing of young people.
Modules include:

• The Practitioner as Learner
• Children and Young People's Learning and Development
• Pedagogical approaches and the adult role
• Play as a Developmental Learning Process
• Communication, Language and Literacy Development
• Professional Reflective Practice in Learning and Development
• Safeguarding and Promoting Welfare and Wellbeing
• Assessing Children's Achievements and Families in Communities

You will be expected to compile a portfolio of evidence as well as submitting essays. You will also be assessed in the workplace for elements of some of the units.

To work as a teacher at a state school in England or Wales, you will need to achieve qualified teacher status (QTS). This is offered on this course for the following level:

• Course does not award QTS