• Benefit from the University's excellent relationship with local employers
• Combine study with your current childcare employment allowing you to relate theory to practice and reflect on your learning throughout the course.
• Flexible timetable. The time table runs over one afternoon and one evening allowing for minimum disruption to the working week.
• Develop your personal, professional and study skills in areas such as multi-agency working and working in social or child care.

Units

• Introduction To Academic Study And Work-Based Learning (Work Based Learning Activity) (ASS074-1) Compulsory
• Introduction To Working With Children, Young People And Families In Practice (Work-Integrated Learning Activity) (ASS075-1) Compulsory
• Law, Society And Controversy (Child And Family) (ASS076-1) Compulsory
• Understanding The Human Services (Child And Family) (ASS077-1) Compulsory
• Child Welfare: Perspectives On And Approaches To Risk Assessments (Child And Family) (ASS082-2) Compulsory
• Managing Applied Experience Within A Work Based Learning Environment (Work-Integrated Activity) (ASS083-2) Compulsory
• Multi-Agency Working (Child And Family) (ASS084-2) Compulsory
• Perceptions And Discourses Of Childhood (Child And Family) (ASS085-2) Compulsory
• Researching Children And Family Practice (Work Based Project) (ASS086-2) Compulsory

The overall strategy of the Foundation Degree seeks to reflect the breadth of study possible, as well as ensuring that learners have the opportunity to build on areas of particular interest or relevance to themselves. Continuous assignment based assessment is seen as the most effective way to determine academic development and achievement. It is a suitable approach for learners returning to study who need immediate feedback for reassurance and to take remedial action if necessary at the earliest opportunity. The assessment types will include: Case study Report Presentations Portfolio Individual education plan Curriculum plan Continuous assignment based assessment Reflective log or integrated work based experiences Project Observations Exam Reflective journal WIKI These assessment methods have been chosen as they will assist learners to review their learning and capture naturally occurring situations within the setting. This strategy informs the assessment methods in each individual unit in the course and has due regard to the level descriptors and course learning outcomes. After Graduation On completing this course you will have developed the skills and knowledge required to support your career prospects within the sector. You are likely to progress into the following areas: Outreach and community based project work Educational welfare Family support/family centres Youth remand centres/prisons Residential social work Special schools Statutory schools Childrens rights/complaints Further study: Completion of the Foundation Degree allows the learner to enter the final year of the BA (Hons) Applied Social Studies, BA (Hons) in Child and Adolescent Studies or BA (Hons) in Early Years Studies Opportunities will also be available to undertake further training, develop existing skills, and acquire new competences that will enable you to assume responsibility within organisations. You will also have acquired new qualities and transferable skills necessary for employment and progression to other qualifications requiring the exercise of personal responsibility and decision-making. Finally you will have the ability to utilise opportunities for lifelong learning.

On completion of this course you will have developed the skills and knowledge required to support your career prospects within the sector. You are likely to progress into the following areas:

• Educational welfare
• Family support/family centre’s
• Youth remand centre’s/prisons
• Residential social work
• Special schools
• Statutory schools
• Children’s rights/complaints
• Outreach and community based project work
• Early years provision

Further study

Completion of the Foundation degree allows you to enter the final year of the BA (Hons) Applied Social Studies, BA (Hons) in Child and Adolescent Studies or BA (Hons) Health and Social Care.

Bedfordshire is a small county with lots to offer.

However you enjoy spending your free time, you won’t have to look far in Bedfordshire to find somewhere to relax, socialise or explore the great outdoors. 

We are also conveniently located around 30 minutes by train from London, offering you the city experience with a homely feel.

Bedfordshire offers:

• A range of pubs, clubs and restaurants
• High street and independent shopping
• Museums, galleries and theatres - and our own University Theatre
• Entertainment centres
• Stunning countryside
• Professional sport and world-class facilities
• Headquarters of a number of notable UK and international companies
• Luton International Carnival and Bedford River Festival

Campuses in Buckinghamshire

We also have campuses in Aylesbury and Milton Keynes