Early Childhood Studies foundation degree
Draft – Subject to Validation
Build your early years career with a practical, work-based degree that combines real childcare experience with a recognised higher-education qualification.
Delivered by Milton Keynes College Group in partnership with The Open University.
The Open University Validation
This programme is subject to validation by The Open University and may change.
What “subject to validation” means:
This programme has not yet completed The Open University’s academic approval process and approval is not guaranteed. Programme content, structure, assessments, delivery pattern and fees may change until validation is confirmed. Final approved information will be provided once validation is complete. Expected validation date May 15th.
Applicants may withdraw their interest, application or provisional acceptance at any time without penalty.
Course overview
The Work-Based Early Childhood Studies Foundation Degree is ideal for those already working or volunteering in early years or childcare settings who want to progress their career while gaining a recognised higher-education qualification.
This practical course combines academic study with real workplace experience, covering key areas such as child development, safeguarding, inclusive practice and early years leadership.
What will I do?
You will develop professional knowledge and practical skills while working in an early years setting.
The course supports your understanding of child development, effective practice, teamwork and reflective professional growth.
What’s next?
After completing this course, you will be prepared for:
- Leadership and management roles within early years settings
- Specialist roles in SEND, safeguarding or family support
- Consultancy, advisory or quality assurance roles
- Further education or training, such as a Master’s or PGCE
Is it for me?
This course is ideal if you are passionate about supporting young children and is best suited for those who are organised, reflective and keen to take on more responsibility within their workplace.
Entry requirements
- Standard entry: Level 3 qualification (A-levels, BTEC, CACHE Diploma) or equivalent.
- Contextual admissions: Eligibility for contextual admissions for applicants from widening participation backgrounds.
- English language: Minimum IELTS 6.0 (or equivalent) for non-native speakers.
- Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL/APL): Provision for RPL/APL in recognition of relevant professional experience or prior study.
- Safeguarding: Enhanced DBS clearance required for all students undertaking placements.
How will I be assessed?
On a Foundation Degree, you are assessed in a variety of ways designed to measure both your academic understanding and your practical skills in early years settings.
How will my progress be monitored?
You will be monitored in a variety of ways, and these will be explained to you by your tutor.
Work Experience
Work experience is a key part of the Foundation Degree and is designed to help you apply theory to real early years practice.
How can I pay for my course?
There are a variety of ways in which you can get help with fees and funding while studying. For detailed information on funding options and bursaries, please visit our Funding and Financial Support page.
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Contact Details
For queries about this programme, please contact Admissions using the details below.
- Email: admissionsandenrolments@mkcollege.ac.uk
- Phone: 01908 684551
Change Communication Statement
If any programme information changes during the validation process, we will update this webpage within five working days of the change being made and contact all individuals who have registered interest. You may withdraw your interest at any time without penalty.
This page was last updated on [27/02/2026] following changes to the proposed programme.
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