Course summary

Work towards a rewarding career by exploring the everyday and unique factors that shape children’s learning and development, supported by experienced lecturers and hands-on work placements. This course starts each September and is awarded by the University of Surrey. This course: • Is a two-year foundation degree, which can be converted to a full degree by completing a one-year top-up degree • Is taught over four days per week and has full-time status • Offers the chance to gain vital work experience and exposure to different industries through weekly work placements (one day per week) and additional two to three-week block placements • Can provide a route into careers related to early years, health, social care and education – start your journey in training to become a teacher • Provides the opportunity to achieve Early Years Educator Status (a Level 2 qualification in Maths and English is required) • Has previously involved educational trips, including exploring the Reggio Emilia approach to education in Italy and visiting early years centres, schools and local authorities in Finland The study of early childhood and the complex influences on a child’s development is a fascinating topic for those interested in working with children. Through this course, you will discover how factors such as play, health and wellbeing, working with families and safeguarding all play a part in shaping the lives of young people. At Farnborough, your lecturers will have experience working in a range of early years and education settings. This will give you a full insight into your subject in the classroom and beyond. Staff attendance at conferences and additional training also ensures that teaching reflects up-to-date practices in the industry. The early years curriculum (Foundation and Key Stage 1) is covered within this course, together with the study of management in childcare and education. As well as exploring key theories and research, you will have the opportunity to put what you learn into practice through weekly work placements (one day per week). This will enable you to develop personal, practical and transferable skills, as well as gaining experiences that can help set you apart from other graduates when starting your new career. WHO IS THE PROGRAMME FOR? This degree is suitable for those who are passionate about working with children or within the early years sector, such as in schools, hospitals and residential care homes. You might currently be studying a Level 3, A Level, or Access to Higher Education course, be returning to education after a break, or wish to transfer from another higher education institution. It may also be possible for you to join this course in its second year following relevant qualifications and/or experience in the workplace. WHAT WILL I STUDY? The first year of this degree will introduce you to key areas in the understanding of children’s development and the necessary knowledge needed to work with children. During the second year you will delve deeper into more specialist topics, exploring prominent theoretical models, the influences of individual needs and differing approaches in European countries. You will complete a literature review in your second year, providing you with the opportunity to research a topic of special interest and develop skills that will benefit you on an honours degree programme.