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Free Foundation Degree in Early Childhood Studies in Durham

CostFREE
Duration2 years
DeliveryClassroom based
Start7 Sep 2026
Study modeFull-time
AttendanceDaytime
Apply now →

About this course

Free FdA Early Childhood Studies (0-8 years) course in Durham. Classes run at New College Durham's Framwellgate Moor Campus. This two-year full-time foundation degree covers the holistic development of children aged 0 to 8, exploring the interdisciplinary nature of early childhood and a range of pedagogical approaches used in early years and education settings. You'll build a socio-ecological understanding of child development alongside practical professional skills. Entry requirements include at least four GCSEs at grade 4/C or above (including maths and English), a relevant Level 3 qualification or A-Levels, and a minimum of 32 UCAS points.

Who this course is for

Course may be subject to change.

This early childhood studies foundation degree provides a challenging, broad-based, employability led curriculum relevant to the holistic needs of early years and education professionals.Gain a socio-ecological understanding of the interdisciplinary nature of early childhood, to enable you to comprehend and evaluate pedagogical approaches to professional early years practice.

Entry requirements

Please refer to College website.

What you will learn

  • You'll explore child development theories and how they apply to children aged 0 to 8.
  • You'll examine pedagogical approaches used in early years and education settings.
  • You'll develop a socio-ecological understanding of early childhood and the factors that shape it.
  • You'll analyse the interdisciplinary nature of early childhood studies across health, education, and social care.
  • You'll evaluate professional practice in early years environments.
  • You'll build skills in critical reflection and evidence-based thinking relevant to working with young children.

How you will learn

The course is delivered through classroom-based study at Framwellgate Moor Campus. Teaching draws on lectures, seminars, and guided independent study. Assessment methods are confirmed on the college website and may include written assignments, presentations, and practice-based elements. Check the college's course page for the full assessment breakdown before you apply.

What you will need to bring

The centre will provide most materials. New College Durham will confirm anything else you need before you start. You will need to complete an enhanced DBS check and provide two supportive references as part of the application process.

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Early years practitioner: working in nurseries or pre-schools with children aged 0 to 5
  • Teaching assistant: supporting learning in primary school classrooms
  • Family support worker: helping families access services and early intervention
  • Nursery manager: overseeing day-to-day running of an early years setting
  • Children's centre worker: delivering programmes for young children and their families
  • Play worker: leading play-based activities in out-of-school or community settings

What you could study next

An fda early childhood studies qualification at Level 5 can lead to a full BA (Hons) in Early Childhood Studies or a related education degree, often with one year of top-up study. From there, a Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE) in Primary Education is the route into qualified teacher status. Some graduates also progress to specialist roles in social work or child psychology, which require further postgraduate study.

Apply on newcollegedurham.ac.uk →
Apply now →

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