Course summary

Overview Knowledgeable and effective practitioners are vital in supporting children to develop their learning and achieve their potential. This new and innovative degree is designed for people who are working in, or who aspire to work with children as a teaching assistant, special needs assistant, cover supervisor, HLTA or outdoor learning practitioner. The Foundation Degree in Education and Development offer pathways of specialisation in Teaching and Learning, SEND or Outdoors Learning. Whilst studying this foundation degree you will explore factors from the perspectives of both young people and practitioners that can influence learning and development as well as how the environment and curriculum supports development. As a result, you will have the knowledge and skills needed to make a significant difference to learners’ outcomes. This programme has been developed to draw and build upon prior experience and skills to support you in discovering fresh insights. Based in the South-West, this programme is run by the Somerset Centre for Integrated Learning. Key features

• Opportunities to develop key skills and knowledge to prepare for further study and/or employment to improve practice and gain promotion e.g. HLTA, cover supervisor, social work assistant, children’s home support worker, outdoor learning lead (in EY/primary setting), outdoor learning practitioner (in an outdoor learning setting)

• Opportunity to combine studying and learning on the job. Students are expected to spend at least 10 hours a week in a setting, either as a member of staff or on a voluntary basis

• Further optional vocational training opportunities, which may incur an additional fee, are available that would support continuing professional development depending on the chosen pathway

• Diverse and rich range of settings in Somerset Authority incorporating visits, as appropriate within the delivery schedule relative to the specific pathway, such as a visit to a Special School or Kilve Court Outdoor Learning Centre

• Step towards acquiring a full honours degree in the future, with top-up options available in Worcester and the Southwest. Completion of the Foundation Degree will enable students to progress to the BA Hons in Professional Practice which takes one year to complete.

• The full honours degree opens up the possibility of a route in to teaching, social work, applying for a full master’s degree. Applicants will need to check their existing GCSEs to ensure that they meet those that are required for potential career progression.

• First in the UK for sustained employment and/or further study (excluding specialist institutions), 5 years after graduation – Longitudinal Education Outcomes data 2024.

• First in the UK for quality education – Times Higher Education University Impact Rankings 2024.

• Ofsted Outstanding in 2023 the University’s primary and secondary teacher training programmes were rated ‘Outstanding’.