Early Childhood Studies
The Foundation degree in Early Childhood Studies is designed to provide you with specialist knowledge and understanding of working with 0-8 year olds, the Early Childhood Studies Foundation Degree focuses on the key theories, concepts and application of working practices and skills required to work with this age group in a variety of Early Years settings. A varied programme of professional placements complement and support your classroom learning.
| Award Name | Degree - Foundation at UK Level 5 |
|---|---|
| NFQ Classification | |
| Awarding Body | Queens University Belfast |
| NFQ Level |
| Award Name | NFQ Classification | Awarding Body | NFQ Level |
|---|---|---|---|
| Degree - Foundation at UK Level 5 | Queens University Belfast |
Duration
2 years full-time.
Entry Requirements
Irish Leaving Certificate:
H5H5H5H5H5 to include English and Mathematics.
Careers / Further progression
Further Study
On successful completion of this course, you may progress to Stranmillis University College and enter year 2 of the BA (Hons) Degree in Early Childhood Studies (full-time or parttime) or into year 2 of a similar course. SRC students will have the opportunity to progress to year 2 of the part-time BA (Hons) Degree in Early Childhood Studies at Southern Regional College.
Careers
A Foundation Degree in Early Childhood Studies provides the essential knowledge and experience for those working with young children in a variety of establishments including:
• Early Years Organisations
• Nursery and Primary Schools
• Centres Associated with the Early Years Organisation
• Creches
• Parent and Toddler Groups
• Childcare and Family Centres
Further information
£2,700. Course fees are set by Stranmillis University College. For more information, visit www.stran.ac.uk/
Other Fees
Educational enrichment activities to local childcare, university and other course relevant facilities will accrue travel expenses of approx. £5-10, three times a year.
Entry Year 2024.
HOW TO APPLY
Applications for full-time undergraduate courses and the full-time Foundation Degree Early Childhood Studies and Foundation Degree Physical Education and Sport are made through the Universities and Colleges Admission Service (UCAS).
Institution code name: SUCB
Institution code: S79
WHEN TO APPLY
Applications made through UCAS for 2024 entry open in September 2023. The closing date for receipt of applications made through UCAS is 31 January 2024 (18:00) - check the UCAS website for exact date. The closing date for receipt of application forms for 2024 entry to the BA Early Childhood Studies (part-time) is 01 March and for the PGCE Early Years is 01 February 2024.
ADMISSIONS PROCESS - BEd AND BA (FULL-TIME) PROGRAMMES
The College receives applications directly from UCAS. Applications are considered on the basis of the information provided. It is the responsibility of the applicant to ensure that complete detail is provided. All applications must contain a reference, otherwise they will not be considered. All fully completed applications submitted by the normal closing date, late January (check UCAS website for date) are given equal consideration. Applications received after this date will not be considered.
STEP 1 – REVIEW OF ACADEMIC PROFILE
Applicants must have a minimum C grade in GCSE English and Mathematics (see page 32 for full GCSE requirements). If an applicant is attempting to achieve the GCSE subject requirements in the year of application, this must be demonstrated in the UCAS application. Please note that Level 2 Essential Skills Numeracy and Application of Number is not acceptable in lieu of GCSE Mathematics. Level 2 Essential Skills Communication is acceptable in lieu of GCSE English. An unsuccessful decision will be processed against an application that does not meet the GCSE requirements. Applicants that have already completed A-levels (or equivalent level 3 qualifications) but do not precisely meet or fall slightly below the entry requirements, may still be shortlisted for interview, but will not initially receive an offer. Such applicants may be reconsidered in August, assuming the required interview score has been achieved and depending upon availability of places.
STEP 2 – REVIEW OF UCAS PERSONAL STATEMENT
Applicants who meet the initial academic criteria will have their personal statement reviewed by a member of staff in Academic Registry. A personal desire and motivation for teaching (BEd) or working with young children (BA) must be evident in your personal statement. You will be required to demonstrate this by providing examples of working with children in a structured environment, preferably in a nursery, primary or post-primary school classroom setting. An unsuccessful decision will be processed for any applicant that does not demonstrate this evidence in their personal statement.
STEP 3 – INTERVIEW AND PRESENTATION
Applicants that pass the first two steps of the process will be invited to take part in an interview and presentation. Applicants will be notified of their interview date, and the presentation topic, at least one week beforehand. Interviews are held in February and March. The interview is conducted by a panel of two, normally comprising a member of academic staff from Stranmillis University College and a current/retired education professional. The presentation is followed by a short interview during which the interviewers will ask you a number of set questions. The interview, including the presentation, lasts approximately 20 minutes. Both the interview and the presentation are scored out of 20 giving a total possible score of 40.
STEP 4 – OFFERS
Offers are made on the basis of ranked interview and presentation score and verification of qualifications. The College aims to have offers processed on UCAS before the end of March, however, the final UCAS deadline for ‘on time’ applications is May (check UCAS website for exact dates).
Overview
This course, awarded by Queen's University Belfast, in association with Stranmillis University College, is designed to provide students with specialist knowledge and understanding of working with 0-8 year olds. The Foundation Degree focuses on the key theories, concepts and practical skills required to work with this age group in the primary school or other specialist early year’s settings.
Throughout the course, students will develop a deep understanding of child development and the factors that influence early childhood. They will explore various aspects of child psychology, including cognitive, social, and emotional development. The curriculum will cover topics such as language and literacy development, play-based learning, inclusive practices, and the role of families and communities in supporting young children's growth and learning.
The programme also focuses on the importance of creating nurturing and stimulating environments for young children. Students will study the principles of child health and safety, nutrition, and the promotion of physical well-being. They will learn about the design and organisation of early childhood settings, including age-appropriate activities, materials, and learning environments.
Full-time provision runs for 30 weeks per year. Full-time: 13 hours per week in College, plus 10 hours work placement per week.
The team delivering this course comprises of a wide range of professionals including primary school teachers, social workers and early years practitioners with a wealth of knowledge and expertise in their fields.
The course is subject to change by Queen's University Belfast.
What Will I Study?
Level 1 modules:
• Child Development
• Learning Through Play
• Professional Practice 1
• Historical Overview of the Development of Early Years Provision
• Acquisition of Language and Communication Skills
• Quality Provision in Early Years
Level 2 modules:
• Safeguarding Children
• Developing Skills and Strategies for Managing Children’s Behaviour
• Professional Practice 2
• Anti-Discriminatory Practice and Inclusion in the Early Years Environment
• Working with Children with Additional Needs
• Working with Babies 0-3 years
• Science and Technology in the Early Years
Modules are assessed through a combination of assignments, presentations and exams as well as placement reports.
Contacts
FacultyHESC@src.ac.uk
028 3025 9685