FdA Educational Practice

This is a full-time equivalent programme, the expected attendance for teaching and assessment in college is one day a week (Wednesdays 9:00am-5:30pm in year 1), however students will be expected to carry out work and assessment preparation in their own time.

About the course

This work-based Foundation Degree is aimed at those wishing to enter or progress their careers in the education sector. Applicants must be either employed or volunteer in a school or college. Working roles are usually as a teaching assistant or classroom support assistant.

Course Content

Year One

Developing Skills for Learning
Understanding How Individuals Learn and Develop
Technology in Learning
Developing Literacy
Developing Mathematics
Understanding Planning for Learning
Equality and Diversity

Year Two

Mentoring and Pastoral Support in Education
Supporting Individual Needs
Developing Reflective Practice
Impact of Behaviour on Learning
Preparing for Practice-based Study
Research Project

Entry requirements

Typically, applicants will need one of the following:

BTEC, NVQ or other appropriate vocational qualification at Level 3
An appropriate A Level, or six-unit vocational A Level
International Baccalaureate (25 points).

Applicants will be required to have a minimum of two years work experience, currently undertaking 10 hours per week (paid or voluntary) in a school or college, and provide a reference to demonstrate that their employer is prepared to support the placement. Applicants with evidence of considerable experience in a relevant role who do not have the formal qualifications are welcome to apply. All applicants will be required to attend an interview at the College. As part of the entry requirements students are also required to have a DBS check.

Where next?

The Foundation Degree is a Level 5 HE qualification which recognises and validates the skills and knowledge needed for a variety of educational roles. On successful completion of the Foundation Degree, you may wish to progress on to the one year top-up programme at Level 6, BA (Hons) Education and Lifelong Learning, or the BA (Hons) in Early Childhood Studies. Once you successfully complete this, you may apply for Initial Teacher Training programmes such as PGCE. Please note, you will need to have achieved English, Maths and Science at GCSE grade 4/C and above to apply and study the Primary PGCE (for Secondary and FE Colleges, English and Maths are a requirement).