Foundation Degree in Educational Practice (FdA) (Part time)

Further Study

This course will equip you with the knowledge, skills and expertise required for working in the educational sector with children at a primary level, and associated professionals (e.g. Primary School Teacher).

You can also progress on to a third year top-up degree, delivered at the University of Bedfordshire, to achieve an Applied Education Studies BA (Hons) Degree. With further study you can also enter teacher training and gain Qualified Teacher Status.

Assessment methods

Assessments will help you to reflect upon your practice and that of your workplace. This course aims to provide a range of assessment methods to support the diverse needs of all learners. Assessments include essays case studies portfolios presentations reflections on work-based learning. The assignments will build directly on the teaching sessions and you will be supported by lecturers to develop your individual assignment through tutorials and in class activities. Developmental assessment opportunities are offered in the form of peer assessment and individual/group tutorials. Substantial guidance is provided on how to complete the assignments on the university virtual learning environment (BREO) and in assessment handbooks workshops seminars and assessment Briefs. Throughout the course you will be able to use your workplace setting as a source of information and context for assessments and be able to undertake research that will contribute to other assessments.

This course is your first step to following a Primary PGCE School Direct or SCITT route to Qualified Teacher Status (if you have the required GCSE grades in maths English and science). There will be a transition programme of events and activities to help you prepare for this.

For those who do not wish to progress on to the full degree you have various options in employment in education – for example as a teaching assistant or higher-level teaching assistant; SEND support; or teaching and learning support within a school in Reception or key stage 1.

This course combines academic study with practical experience allowing you to develop your skills and abilities through work-based tasks and observed classroom practice.

You learn locally on a part-time basis which makes it easier to fit study around your existing work or family commitments.

Successful Foundation degree students have the right of direct entry to one of the University of Bedfordshire’s BA (Hons) top-up courses: Applied Education Studies Applied Educational Practice or Applied SEND.

It is your first step to following a Primary PGCE Schools Direct or SCITT route to Qualified Teacher Status (if you have the required GCSE grades in Maths English and Science)

It enhances your career opportunities through achieving a formal qualification specifically designed for support staff working in educational settings