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This Foundation Degree provides a broad perspective of working with children through early childhood up to eight years of age. You will gain a sound understanding of the diverse contexts in which young children develop and learn. This course is delivered one day a week and is aimed at those working in a variety of Early Years settings. These include children’s centres, pre-schools,nurseries, infant schools, children’s health services (such as speech and language therapy) and in Social Services Early Childhood centres.This course allows you to explore aspects of Early Years and reflect on and develop your own personal practice. You will have access to excellent support and resources from both HSDC and the University of Chichester. Working in the sector alongside studying enables reflection and adds relevance to work.Cost: £5,325 per year – subject to a % increase in September 2025
To be employed or doing voluntary work in an early years childcare setting for a minimum of 12 hours per week Have the support of their employer or voluntary setting (unless self-employed, for example childminders) Obtain a satisfactory enhanced DBS check Have suitable GCSEs Have a full Level 3 early years qualification (for example NVQ 3 in Children’s Care Learning and Development, BTEC National Diploma in Children’s Care, Learning and Development, Level 3 Diploma for the Children and Young People’s Workforce or an Advanced Apprenticeship in Early Years, CACHE DCE or an A Level programme) Attend an interview Accreditation of Prior Learning (APL) or Accreditation of Prior Experiential Learning (APEL) will be considered
This course will develop your skills in the study of childhood from psychological, historical, cultural, sociological, social policy and philosophical viewpoints. It is delivered through a combination of taught sessions and employer-supported work-based learning, this programme is designed to support your development as an early years practitioner.This intermediate level study can also provide headway towards gaining a full degree in Early Childhood Studies, becoming an Early Years’ Teacher or Qualified Teacher Status (QTS). This course feeds into the BA top-up in Early Childhood which is also offered at HSDC.Students on this course are expected to attend college for one day a week, alongside working in the sector. You will study a range of modules each year including:Year One:- Introduction to Early Years- Child Development in the Early Years- Children’s Rights- Creativity and Expressive Arts- Reflective Practitioner- Safeguarding- Integrated Working in the Early YearsYear Two:- Curricula Around the World- Understanding Children’s Behaviour- Working with Families- Importance of Research in the Early Years- Childhood in Crisis- Special Education Needs
This is a two-year programme which is delivered on one day per week. It has a theoretical, vocational focus to the study of Early Years working and provides grounding in social science perspectives to inform practice.The course is delivered via taught sessions in small groups and there is individual tutorial support to assist with the planning and checking of coursework. The course will enhance your skills in reflection, independent thinking and critical analysis supporting you to become a more confident and skilled Early Years practitioner.
You will be assessed by a variety of methods, including essays, reports and poster presentations. You will be supported throughout and also be encouraged to monitor your own progress and take the opportunity to discuss any issues with your lecturers during the course.
This course leads to the BA top-up in Early Childhood which can lead to PGCE or Schools Direct routes into primary teaching. This qualification can also lead to management in the Early Years sector or to further specialist qualifications in areas such as speech therapy, play therapy or social work. Careers guidance is available for you to consider your options.
