Course summary

The Foundation degree in Early Years and Childhood Studies is an exciting programme enabling those working in early years to work towards graduate status. The course is suitable as a pathway to primary school teaching (you must also achieve GCSE maths, English and science). We welcome applications from those working within the childcare sector and from those who may not have child care experience but wish to enter this field. Those studying at Lowestoft will attend one day per week (2.00pm - 9.00pm) and will need to have face-to-face contact with children for at least 20 hours per week.    As these are employment-based learning courses, you will require the support of their employer to successfully complete the qualification. You need a mentor in the workplace to support them with their studies. These courses emphasise multi-agency working, helping to create a workforce committed to joint working and improving standards of care for children. For those who successfully complete the Foundation degree, and who are interested in progressing their studies within the field of children's care and learning they can progress on to the BA (Hons) Early Years and Childhood Studies (progression route). We welcome applications from anyone who has achieved 240 credits in higher education (120 credits at level 5) e.g. A Foundation degree related to early years practice. You will study early intervention, child health and professional practice alongside their dissertation study. Topics offered for dissertation last year included identification of gifted and talented children, the value of home visiting in transitions and whether the school starting age is too young.