Early Years Foundation Degree Level 4/5 ‘Full and relevant'

• Course details, fees and dates

  Course Code 23-PL4FD-EAY-1A / 10001

  Start Date Monday 04 Sep 2023

  How long is the course? 2 years (34 weeks per annum)

  What time does the course start? 4PM

  What time does the course end? 9PM

  When does the course run? Wed

  How much does the course cost? All Fees £6,000*

  Are concessions available? No

  Examining Body Kingston University

  Is an interview required? Yes

• Fees*

  Please note that fees shown are for 2020. Fees are set in July each year by Kingston University and it is likely that there will be a small increase for September 2021 intake. Any fee changes will be available and confirmed at interview.

  Break down of fee are as follows:

  Year 1 (level 4): £6,000 
  
  Year 2 (level 5 & level 4 repeats): £5,300
  
  Individual unit repeats: £1,325 per module

• What you will study

  The course covers a wide range of theoretical perspectives and current issues in the field of education and other related sectors, which are relevant for those working in early years settings.
  
  The course also explores international perspectives and latest developments within the field of early years. It provides a route into higher education for experienced and committed early years practitioners, enabling them to progress from a Level 3 qualification, up to a Foundation Degree. It combines work-based practice with theoretical knowledge.
  
  This course enables you to ‘learn as you earn’ by combining a minimum of 16 hours workplace learning with part-time study at a local college.
  
  You will gain 240 academic credits on completion of this course.

• How you will be taught

  Examples of modules:

  – Child Development, Observation and Assessment

  – Inclusive Education and Interprofessional Perspectives
  
  – Effective Communication Skills
  
  For a full list of modules, please see the course webpage: kingston.ac.uk/2019eyfd 

  Your course will be delivered here at RichmondCollege. Teaching includes lectures, work-based learning activities, presentations, tutorials, online learning, workshops and seminars. In addition you will be supported by a work-based professional advocate and tutors.

• How the course is assessed

  Progress is measured by assignments, demonstration of professional competence in work-based situations, and practical demonstrations that apply the knowledge you have gained. There are no written exams.

  Entry requirments

  – Level 3 early year’s qualification (or equivalent) – Normally two years’ experience in an appropriate setting (desirable, but not essential).
  
  – Employment in an appropriate setting (either paid or voluntary) for at least 16 hours per week for the duration of the course.
  
  The selection process involves interview at your chosen college, selection exercises and a current DBS check.
  
  Please see course webpage for further details: kingston.ac.uk/2019eyfd

• Progression options

  This qualification is valued by employers. It is seen as a mark of professional excellence and expertise.

  Once you have successfully completed this foundation degree at Level 5, you can take a further year’s study and top-up your qualification to a BA (Hons) degree at Level 6 at Kingston University.

  After you have completed the BA (Hons) top-up, you will be well placed to pursue postgraduate opportunities and enhance your professional development in education and related fields, should you wish.

  Many graduates return to Kingston University for postgraduate and continuing professional development studies. These include Early Years Initial Teacher Training leading to Early Years Teacher Status (EYTS), the Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE) leading to Qualified Teacher Status (QTS).

  Please note: to progress to EYTS or QTS, you will need GCSE (A*–C or comparable numeric scores under the newly reformed GCSE gradings) in English Language, Maths and Science.

• Further information

  If you do not already hold Early Years Educator Status from your Level 3 qualification, we offer the Early Years (with Early Years Educator) pathway which is classified as a "full and relevant" qualification by the Department for Education (UCAS code: X120). You will complete a Reflective Professional Practice Record (RPPR). 
  
  Typical offer 2023 Early Years FdA 
  
  

  • Level 3 early years qualification with Early Years Educator Status. 
  • Employment in an appropriate setting (either paid or voluntary) for at least 16 hours per week for the duration of the course. 
  • Enhanced DBS check and selection exercises. 
  • Shortlisted applicants will be invited for an interview. 
    
    Typical offer 2023 Early Years FdA (with Early Years Educator) Pathway 
    
    If you do not hold Early Years Educator Status, please apply for this pathway. 
    
    UCAS tariff points: 72 
    
    A-levels: 

  • DDD 
    
    T-level:  

  • Technical qualification in Education and Childcare or related subject and/or equivalent. 
    
    BTEC National Diploma 

  • MPP in Level 3 National Diploma in Children's Play, Learning and Development and/or equivalent 
    
    Other qualifications 

  • CACHE Level 3 Diploma in Early Years, Level 3 Early Years Educator, Playwork, Children and Young People 
  • NVQ Level 3 in an early years, health and social care or related subject and/or equivalent, working with children aged 0-8 years. 
  • Access to HE Diploma with 60 credits: 45 at Level 3 and 15 at Level 2 equating to a minimum of 72 UCAS points. Typical level requirements indicated. Health & Social Care, Education and Early Years subjects are desirable, however, we will consider other subjects at this level provided you have recent experience in an Early Years setting (either paid or voluntary). 
    
    Other requirements 

  • Three passes at GCSE grade C/4 or above (which should include Mathematics and English Language) or a minimum of Level 2 Key Skills in Communication and Application of Number is desirable. To count in the ratios at level 3, staff holding an Early Years Educator qualification must also have achieved a suitable level 2 qualification in English and Maths as defined by the Department for Education on the published Early Years Qualifications List. 
  • A minimum IELTS score of 6.5, TOEFL scores of 79 to 93 or equivalent is required for those for whom English is not their first language. 
  • Employment in an appropriate setting (either paid or voluntary) for at least 16 hours per week for the duration of the course.* 
  • Enhanced Disclosure Barring Service (DBS) check 
  • You will need to complete a medical pro forma as a health check 
  • Shortlisted applicants will be invited for an interview. 
  • You will have to identify a Critical Professional Associate (Mentor) in the workplace who is qualified to Level 6 in a related field and who is willing to carry out workplace assessments. A mandatory training for the Critical Professional Associate will be provided by the University.