Childhood Studies is available as a Foundation Degree and a BA (See here for details).

• Foundation Degree in Childhood Studies pdf
• Foundation Degree in Childhood Studies with Special Educational Needs pdf
• Foundation Degree in Childhood Studies with Physical Education pdf

Teaching Assistants and others working with children and young people within education often search for a way to study and continue in employment. The Foundation Degree award offers this opportunity, providing an academic route that recognises the experience and achievements of those working with children. It provides support through study and work based learning and can be used as a progression to programmes such as the BA(Hons) Childhood Studies and/or as a route into teaching.

Click here for stakeholders comments about this programme.

Introduction

FOUNDATION DEGREE ONLY

The Foundation Degree in Childhood Studies (Fd CS) has been planned to support people working with children, in educational or child care settings, to gain formal qualifications and enhance their practice. They may use the Fd CS as a stepping-stone to further academic qualifications and /or further professional status, for example, in teaching. By using work-based learning and part-time attendance, this programme allows participants to continue in work whilst studying. Attendance will be equivalent to six hours a week. Due to the flexible nature of a Foundation degree, it is possible to leave the programme after successfully completing the first year with a Certificate of Higher Education. This programme is run at a variety of venues throughout Kent and Medway.

Content and Structure

The programme consists of twelve generic modules, six in each year, aimed at enabling participants to extend and develop knowledge and understanding related to child development and learning through a range of activities at University, from “lectures” to discussion, activities or video. Generic modules studied include content related to child development, communication and literacy, inclusion, behaviour for learning, science and mathematics, creativity and also consider dynamics within the workplace. Each module is assessed using a range of assessment procedures, for example, assignments include essays, posters, presentations and resources to support learning. The Fd CS offers more specialised modules at some venues, including SEN, PML or PE studies. These specialisms have modules designed to offer a more detailed investigation of children’s learning in specialised areas, and include 3 generic modules and 3 specialist modules at each level of study.

Important Information

Applications for both programmes are made directly to the University. The academic entry requirements for the Fd CS are an A level (or equivalent) plus GCSE English Language Grade C (or equivalent). Applicants must be working (employed or voluntary) in a relevant setting for a minimum of 10 hours per week, and have had one year’s previous experience. Additionally, applicants require the support of their employer to allow them to complete the work based tasks. To apply for the BA (Hons) applicants must also hold a Fd (or similar) award. Applicants to specialist programmes require further skills, for example, for PML some language knowledge would be expected.

Employment Opportunities

Besides other childcare opportunities, candidates successfully completing the Foundation degree have opportunities to engage in further study and to work towards Qualified Teacher Status in a number of ways, including combining study with the Registered Teacher Programme, or applying for the Primary Progression Programme. Alternatively, students may wish to complete their honours degree by completing their degree with the BA (Hons) programme and then may apply for the GTP.

Stakeholders Comments

The Fd CS programme has done an excellent job providing professional people with an opportunity to advance their careers while helping others

Working on the Fd CS programme has had a positive impact on both L and the school

N is very committed to the course and ‘is driven’ to reach her goal to become a teacher. She will no doubt achieve this due to her hard work and thirst to know more. She is an asset to our team of colleagues and will be a valuable member of the teaching profession once she qualifies

K puts a lot of enthusiasm into her studies and uses her learning well in the school setting- thus ensuring that it has a positive effect on her practice.

We feel that the benefits to our school children and staff of K being on this course as so great that we continue to support her and pay her during her studies even though these are tighter financial times. The course has given K more confidence and belief in herself. She will try new ideas and will encourage colleagues to do the same

S should be congratulated for her hard work and forward thinking. She has become more involved in class activities and is extremely capable of managing and teaching the whole class. S has created engaging lessons and resources to help them progress. I look forward to continuing working with her next year and benefitting from her learning during her 2nd year.

I wish P all the best in her academic pursuits and believe it not only benefits her but the children she works with as well

N has worked extremely hard this year and has clearly shown her commitment to the course. She works independently and manages her work very well. The children have benefitted from working with her. I wish her every success for next year

How to Apply

An application form and an information sheet for the Foundation Degree in Childhood Studies can be downloaded below:

 Application Form                            (Word Doc 231KB)
Stakeholder Learning Agreement     (Word Doc 69 KB)
 Information Sheet                           (Word Doc 242KB)

These forms can also be obtained by emailing admissions@canterbury.ac.uk or by writing to:

Student Recruitment
Canterbury Christ Church University
North Holmes Road
Canterbury
Kent
CT1 1QU

Department of Childhood Studies