Foundation Degree in Children's Development and Learning in Maidenhead. Classes run at Berkshire College of Agriculture, with a weekly twilight session from 1.15pm to 7.30pm. This foundation degree in children's development and learning course is designed for practitioners already working with children and young people up to the age of 18. You must be in a relevant education or care setting for at least 2.5 days a week. Assignments are built around your professional practice. The course runs over 36 weeks.
Who this course is for
This course enables you to develop the skills to progress in your career working with children, alongside your job. It is aimed at early years and education practitioners who are working with children up to the age of 18 and requires you to be released from your setting to attend Berkshire College of Agriculture (BCA) for a twilight session once a week. (1.15pm until 7.30pm). This vocational award is a work-based course, and your assignments and lessons are all designed to benefit your professional development. You’ll build upon your experience through modules in areas such as child development, safeguarding, creativity and critical thinking, and working in partnership with parents. College sessions include lectures, as well as tutorials and seminars. The course also incorporates a great deal of group work, which will be an opportunity to share experiences with fellow professionals working in a range of settings. There is plenty of support available to help you get the most out of your course. You will be given an academic tutor who will have regular one-to-one meetings with you. You’ll also nominate someone from within your own workplace, such as a manager or colleague, to become your mentor. Additionally, you’ll benefit from small learning groups and access to facilities and support at both BCA and the University of Reading.
Entry requirements
You must be working at least 2.5 days a week in a relevant education or care setting, and are normally expected to have obtained: An NQF Level 3 qualification in a work-related area; GCSE English Language at a grade C (grade 4) or above; GCSE Maths at a grade C (grade 4) or above; At least 2 years’ experience of working within the Children’s Workforce Any candidate who does not fully meet the entry criteria is invited to submit their application, considered on a case-by-case basis.
What you will learn
You'll develop your understanding of child and young person development across the 0 to 18 age range.
You'll examine how learning environments and practice affect outcomes for children.
You'll analyse policy and legislation relevant to early years and education settings.
You'll apply theory directly to your own professional practice and workplace setting.
You'll strengthen your skills in observation, assessment, and reflective practice.
You'll build subject knowledge to support progression toward a full honours degree.
How you will learn
You'll attend one weekly twilight session at Berkshire College of Agriculture, combining taught input with discussion rooted in your workplace experience. Assessment is through written assignments linked to your professional setting. Your work in the classroom and the tasks you complete are designed to connect directly with your day-to-day role.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. Berkshire College of Agriculture will confirm anything else you need before you start.
Where next
Jobs you could do
Room leader or senior practitioner in an early years setting
Teaching assistant or higher-level teaching assistant (HLTA)
Family support worker in a school or community setting
Early intervention worker with children and families
Nursery manager or deputy manager
Learning mentor in a primary or secondary school
What you could study next
BA (Hons) in Early Childhood Studies or Education: a top-up degree that builds on your Foundation Degree and can open routes toward Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) or senior leadership roles.
PGCE or School Direct: if you want to move into teaching, a postgraduate teaching qualification is the next step after completing a full honours degree.
Level 5 Diploma in Leadership for Health and Social Care: an alternative route for those moving into management in care or early years settings.
