Foundation degrees
Foundation degrees are at level 5 on the QCA National Qualifications Framework and are ideal for early years and childcare professionals as they are designed to be fitted in around work.
If you've enjoyed participating in extended learning as part of your training and CPD, consider doing a foundation degree, or moving on to further education.
There are no set entry requirements for a foundation degree. The university or college offering the course will decide if you are suitable to undertake the training, taking into account your professional experience as well as any educational qualifications you may have.
The admissions team is likely to consider your relevant experience through the Accreditation of Prior (Experiential) Learning (APEL). This is where your previous qualifications and on-the-job training are taken into account and is especially useful if you have few formal qualifications.
There are several foundation degrees particularly suitable for childcare professionals, including:
- Early childhood studies
- Early years childcare and education
- Working with children (early years)
- Early years senior practitioner.
Most foundation degree courses require you to work in the environment you are studying whilst completing the course, making it even easier to fit your studies around your working life.
If you live in Wales, we recommend you check course relevance for potential roles with the CIW and Social Care Wales before embarking on a level 3 or above course, in particular if you are looking at degree level courses. Further information is available on the Qualification Framework on Social Care Wales' website.
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