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Foundation Degree in Early Childhood Studies in Selby – Selby College – Part-time

CostPart time: £4933 per year
Duration3 years
DeliveryClassroom based
Start30 Sep 2026
Study modePart-time
AttendanceDaytime
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About this course

FdA Early Childhood Studies in Selby. Classes run at Selby College, part-time during the day, over three years. The course covers child development, education, health and wellbeing, safeguarding, and professional practice with children aged 0 to 8 years. You'll need to be working or volunteering in an early years setting for at least 240 hours across the three years, so theory and practice develop together. Entry requires 48 UCAS points and a grade C/4 or above in GCSE English. Fees are £4,933 per year.

Who this course is for

This programme is intended for students wishing to work professionally with children aged 0-8 years, or for those already working with children in this age group who are seeking a higher level qualification. It equips you with the concepts, knowledge and skills required for a professional role in the Early Years sector.

You will develop an understanding of the subject and field which will enable you to participate in planning, evaluating and implementing the education and care of young children aged 0-8 years. You will be able to use this knowledge and understanding to support your practical work with children in the workplace. It is fundamental to the approach of the course that theory and practical work are inter-related.

The course explores the needs and experiences of children and investigates how education shapes their development. It aims to develop professional and practical skills such as planning, assessment and teamwork, enhancing your employability and building a solid foundation for further study. There is clear evidence that a graduate qualification in this sector is helping to professionalise and raise the standards of childcare and education, as well as strengthen opportunities for individual promotion.

Entry requirements

48 UCAS points from either: BTEC L3 National Dip (QCF) in Children's Play, Learning and Development BTEC L3 Extended Dip (QCF) in a relevant subject A Levels You should be employed within the sector, either paid or unpaid, for a min of 240hrs over the 3 year period.

Also required: A DBS check 2 References A work-based mentor (You will also receive workplace visits from your tutors) C/4 or above in GCSE English C/4 and above in GCSE Maths and Science (desirable)

What you will learn

  • You'll explore human growth and development in children aged 0 to 8 years.
  • You'll develop skills in early years observation and assessment.
  • You'll study approaches to early years learning and play.
  • You'll learn how to promote child health and wellbeing.
  • You'll examine safeguarding practice for babies and young children.
  • You'll develop reflective practice and personal professional development.
  • You'll study partnerships with parents and families in early years settings.
  • You'll build research and leadership skills relevant to the early years sector.

How you will learn

Learning combines classroom study at Selby College with work-based practice in an early years setting. Assessments take a variety of forms across the two stages of the course. Year 1 covers the Certificate Stage; Year 2 covers the Diploma Stage. Tutors will visit you in your workplace as part of your learning. You'll need a work-based mentor throughout the programme.

What you will need to bring

The centre will provide most materials. Selby College will confirm anything else you need before you start. You will need to arrange a current DBS check, two references, and a work-based mentor in an early years setting before enrolment.

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Early years practitioner: working with children aged 0 to 5 in nursery settings.
  • Nursery room leader: leading a room team in a day nursery.
  • Teaching assistant: supporting learning in primary school classrooms.
  • Family support worker: helping families access early years services.
  • Children's centre worker: delivering programmes for young children and parents.
  • Playgroup supervisor: running sessional play and learning groups.
  • Early years SENCO: coordinating support for children with additional needs.

What you could study next

An FdA Early Childhood Studies qualification can lead to a full BA (Hons) in Early Childhood Studies or a related education degree, often with one additional year of top-up study. From there, a Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE) in Early Years or Primary is an option for those wanting Qualified Teacher Status. Some graduates also progress to the Level 6 Early Years Teacher Status (EYTS) assessment route.

Apply on heartofyorkshire.ac.uk →
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