If your staff work with young children in early years education, or are undertaking a substantial voluntary role in the sector - our Foundation Degree in Early Years Childhood Studies at the Growth Company offers an excellent opportunity to develop their skills and knowledge.
This part-time programme enables learners to build a strong understanding of early years and childhood studies while continuing in their role. They will explore key areas of practice and apply their learning directly within their workplace, helping to enhance the quality of care and education provided.
Our expert team supports learners to connect theory with real-life experience, encouraging them to reflect on their practice and identify ways to improve outcomes for children and families.
Throughout the course, learners will also develop their confidence and leadership skills, supporting progression within their role. On completion, they may choose to continue their studies through a BA (Hons) Education and Learning (Top-Up)
What You Will Study
Modules listed below are a mixture of compulsory and optional. You may not have the opportunity to study all the modules as part of the course.
- Personal development and study skills
- The developing child
- ICT to support children’s learning
- Facilitating children’s learning
- Inclusive practice
- Social policy
- Safeguarding children
- Developing reflective practice
- Research perspectives
- Creating positive learning experiences for children
- Independent research project
Each module begins with taught sessions that introduce key concepts and course content. Learners are then supported to apply this knowledge to workplace scenarios, helping them translate theory into practical application.
Tutorials are included within each module, offering guidance and support for independent study. In addition, a practice trainer supports the development of professional practice through workplace observations, feedback, and one-to-one discussions.
A range of assessment methods is used throughout the course, including essays, presentations, case studies, activity plans, reflective accounts, and critical evaluations. The final module includes an independent study focused on an area of the learner’s professional practice.
Start Date
September 2026
Duration
2.5 Years
Attendance and Delivery Location
One evening per week, 5:30pm – 7:30pm at Warren Bruce Court, Trafford Park
Validated By
University of Greater Manchester
Entry Requirements
- Ideally, you will hold a Level 3 qualification in a childcare-related subject. However, substantial relevant experience in the early years sector may also be considered.
- You should have GCSE English and Mathematics at grade C/4 or above (or equivalent). Level 2 Functional Skills qualifications are also accepted. Please contact us if you would like to discuss alternative qualifications.
- Applicants must be in employment or undertaking a substantial voluntary role within an early years setting, as practical experience forms an essential part of the course.
- We consider all applications on an individual basis. You will be required to attend an interview as part of the application process. If you do not meet the standard entry requirements, you may be asked to provide a portfolio of work or complete an additional assessment to demonstrate your suitability.
- As this course involves regulated activity, you will need to obtain an Enhanced Disclosure from the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) before starting. This is usually arranged by your employer. If you need to apply independently, please note that fees apply for the DBS check and annual registration with the Update Service.
Don’t meet all the requirements? All applications are considered individually; if you're currently in a management or administrative role we would be very keen to discuss your circumstances.