Free FdA Foundation Degree in Early Years Care and Education in Farnborough. Classes run at Farnborough College of Technology. This two-year, full-time daytime course covers child development, care practice, and education theory at degree level. It prepares you for professional roles working with young children in nursery and early years settings. The FdA Foundation Degree in Early Years Care and Education qualification sits at higher education level, giving you both academic grounding and practical knowledge for the sector.
Who this course is for
See college website for details of this course. Please note that start dates are indicative only - you should visit our website for the most up-to-date information.
What you will learn
You'll study child development from birth through the early years
You'll explore early years curriculum frameworks and how they're applied in practice
You'll examine safeguarding principles and child protection responsibilities
You'll develop knowledge of inclusive practice and supporting children with additional needs
You'll analyse approaches to observation, assessment, and planning for young children
You'll build understanding of working in partnership with parents and carers
You'll engage with research and reflective practice relevant to the early years sector
How you will learn
Learning takes place through classroom sessions at Farnborough College of Technology, combining taught input with discussion, group work, and independent study. Assessment typically includes written assignments, reflective journals, and practice-based tasks. The course is delivered full-time over two years with daytime attendance. Visit the college website for the most up-to-date information on course structure and start dates.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. Farnborough College of Technology will confirm anything else you need before you start.
Where next
Jobs you could do
Nursery practitioner: work directly with children aged 0 to 5
Room leader: lead a room within a nursery setting
Early years educator: plan and deliver learning for young children
Childcare worker: support children's daily care and development
Teaching assistant (early years): support learning in Reception classes
Family support worker: work with families and young children in the community
What you could study next
BA (Hons) Early Childhood Studies: a top-up degree to reach full honours level, often one further year of study.
Early Years Teacher Status (EYTS): for those wanting to lead practice and work toward qualified teacher recognition in early years settings.
Level 5 Diploma in Leadership for Health and Social Care: for those moving into management roles in childcare or early years services.
