City and Islington College

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Early Years FdA

Early Years FdA

Quick facts:

UCAS Code: X945
UCAS Institution Code: L68
Level: 5
Duration: 2 Years part time
Location: Centre for Health, Social and Child Care

What is this course about?

With an excellent combination of practical and college based learning opportunities, this Sure Start recognised course enables you to further develop your expert knowledge and skills in all aspects of working with children. You will study theories of child development, carry out personal observations, plan your time and reflect on your personal work, boosting your employability in this challenging and rewarding field. The course is in partnership with London Metropolitan University.

Who is this course for?

This course is ideal for early years practitioners who wish to improve their career prospects.

What do I need to get on the course?

You will need to have one of the following, NVQ Level 3 in Child Care and Education, BTEC National Diploma /CACHE Diploma in Child Care or a recognised Access to Higher Education Certificate in a related subject. In addition, you will also need at least, 2 years full-time experience of working with children in an early years or a school setting. You should currently be working in early years, as either an employee or a volunteer. We will consider applicants with other relevant qualifications and experience. You also need clearance from the Criminal Records Bureau to work with young children and two satisfactory references. Childminders and Outreach workers will need to provide evidence from an identified mentor in an early years setting where they will be expected to work six hours per week (the equivalent of one full day in a school) on paid or voluntary basis.

What will I study?

This course combines a relevant work placement with college and University study. You attend college for teaching and tutorial on one full day and one evening a week (11 hours). In addition, you spend at least two full days each week as a nursery nurse or teaching assistant in an early years or school setting. You develop your skills in working with children by carrying out observations, planning your work and organising your time, learning the theory of child development and reflecting on your practical work. You will also improve your study and communication skills, by writing essays, making presentations and working as part of a team.

What qualification will I get?

Foundation Degree in Early Years (Sure Start recognised) awarded by London Metropolitan University.

What can I do after the course?

When you successfully complete the foundation degree, you will have the status of senior practitioner. You may progress to an appropriate Honours Degree at London Metropolitan University (normally an additional four terms study), gain direct entry to a Registered Teachers Programme or apply for an Early Years Professional Status.

How do I get on the course?

Apply through UCAS www.ucas.ac.uk UCAS code X945, UCAS Institution code L68

If you cannot find the information, you are looking for on our website please contact the Course Information Unit on tel: 020 7700 9200 or email: courseinfo@candi.ac.uk

Student profile

picture of Alan Trinh

Alan Trinh

Our coursework was interesting, says Alan who studied A-levels with us. The teachers showed a lot of energy in the classroom, which was very motivating and really helped to keep my attention. The new Sixth Form College had great facilities for the students to use, so you've got good resources and a good atmosphere which really contributes to your learning.