Child Care & Early Years Education
Foundation Degree (FdA) Children, Young People and Their Services (HTQ) - awarded by University of Lancashire
Is this course for me?
Do you want to make a real difference in the lives of children and young people?
Whether you're working in early years, education, or care — or want to get started — this course is designed to help you build a rewarding career in services that support children and young people aged 0-19.
You'll explore everything from child development and safeguarding to inclusion and youth mental health. Alongside theory, you'll apply what you learn on placement, so you graduate with hands-on experience and skills that employers are looking for.
This course is ideal for people who want to grow their confidence, gain qualifications while working or volunteering, and take that next step toward teaching, social care, or family support roles.
If you care about giving young people the best possible start — this is your next move.
You'll build a strong understanding of child development, wellbeing, and professional practice — all tailored to the realities of working in education and care.
Modules for Year 1 include:
• Social Construction of Children and Young People in Society
• Professional Practice 1: Exploring Professionalism
• Children and Young People's Development: Introduction to Theories of Development
• Supporting Children and Young People's Transition
• Play, Pedagogy, Risk & Resilience
Modules for Year 2 include:
• Diversity, Inclusion and Rights of Children and Young People
• Professional Practice 2: Exploring Professionalism
• Safeguarding Children and Young People
• Global Perspectives on the Lives of Children and Young People
• Researching with Children and Young People
• Work-Based Learning in Children and Young People's Services
You'll also develop research, communication, and reflection skills through real work-based learning and projects.
Assessments are varied and practical, designed to prepare you for the types of tasks you'll do in the workplace. These include:
• Case studies
• Observational analysis
• Reports and essays
• Presentations
• Research projects
• Professional development portfolios
You'll study full-time, one day a week plus a minimum 48-day work placement — giving you time to balance work, life, and learning.
You'll need:
• At least 80 UCAS points
• GCSE English at grade 4/C or above (or equivalent)
• A satisfactory DBS
• The ability to complete a 48-day placement as part of the course
We also welcome mature students with relevant experience, a portfolio of work, or references from employers. If you're unsure, talk to us — we'll help you find the right route.
This course opens doors to roles in:
• Early years settings and schools
• Social care and support services
• Family centres and youth organisations
• Teaching and training environments
You can also top up your foundation degree to a full BA (Hons) with one more year of study. Options include:
• BA (Hons) in Education Studies (delivered at the University Centre)
• BA (Hons) Children, Schools and Families (delivered at UCLan)
• Or similar top-up degrees at universities across the UK
You'll learn from experienced tutors with professional backgrounds in:
• Youth mental health services
• Nursery and early years leadership
• Teaching, training, and social care
You'll also benefit from:
• Strong links with schools, social services, and training providers like Kingsbridge and Skills Direct
• Dedicated support with finding placements
• Opportunities for enrichment — including international visits to explore children's services abroad (recent trips have included Prague and Budapest)
• Real-world experiences that often lead to employment — many students secure jobs during or shortly after placement
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Students aged 16-18 do not pay exam fees.
