
Foundation Degree in Early Childhood Studies (full time)
Build your early years career with a practical, work-based degree that combines real childcare experience with a recognised higher-education qualification.

Course Overview
- Start Date
- 13 Sep 2027
- Mode of Study
- Full-Time
- Location
- South Central IoT – Bletchley
- Days
- Mon, Thur & Fri
- Time
- 09:00 – 17:00
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, T Level in Education and Early Years) 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.
EXPLORE COURSES
Apply today
-
Foundation Degree in Early Childhood Studies
(A992-1/2)- Start Date
- 13 Sep 2027
- Days
- Mon, Thur & Fri
- Time
- 09:00 – 17:00
- Location
- South Central IoT – Bletchley
Fees- 16 – 18
- £7500 Per Year
- 19 – 23
- £7500 Per Year
- 24+
- £7500 Per Year
- Overseas
- £7500 Per Year

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