Foundation Degree in Early Years

FdA Early YearsCourse contentWhat our Graduates doEntry requirements

This course covers a wide range of subjects within the childcare and education vocational area, including the psychology, sociology and philosophy of early childhood.

The first few years of children’s lives are crucial to their development and opportunities in later life – and the adults who work with them are ideally placed to make a difference.

The Foundation Degree in Early Years builds upon on your knowledge of children’s development and learning, as well as developing an understanding of policies and practice in early years settings.

Working in small classes really helped me engage with the course content.


FdA Early Years Modules offered:

Year One

• Research and Study Skills


• Safeguarding Children


• Children in Society


• Work Experience as a Resource for Learning

Year Two

• Outdoor Play – the root of learning


• Partnership Working


• Difference and Diversity in Early Years Settings


• Research Appreciation and Critiquing: Diet Exercise and Learning

Optional modules

• Domestic Abuse


• Introduction to Counselling Skills


• Creativity in Children’s Learning

Year Three

• Areas of Learning: Language and Literacy and Mathematical Development


• Developing the Work Setting: Managing and Supervision


• Independent Learning Module


• Effective Communication in Practice

Many students choose to continue their studies and complete the BA(Hons) in Early Years here at Colchester Institute; this can be done either through the part-time or full-time route. Some graduates enter social work, play therapy, health and civil services or support within schools and the community. There are other opportunities to apply for more senior positions within their current work setting and in Sure Start Children’s centres. After graduating with an Honours Degree and having undertaken teacher training, some students enter primary school teaching.

An existing level 3 qualification which includes assessed practical competence. Mature students without formal qualifications, but with evidence of practical experience and relevant employment will also be considered for this course. All applicants will be interviewed and required to demonstrate that they have relevant experience in working with children, and have good communication skills.

They will also need to undertake a written piece as part of the interview. . Satisfactory Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS)* enhanced check.

*Please note there is a charge of £44 for a DBS check

How To Apply

Our aim is to make it as easy as possible to secure your place on your ideal programme. Simply download and complete the relevant application form and return it to our Admissions team as early as possible. You can return your completed application form in person or by post to our Colchester (for applications to Colchester and Clacton) or Braintree campuses:

Admissions Colchester Institute Sheepen Road Colchester CO3 3LL
Admissions The College at Braintree Church Lane Braintree CM7 5SN

Applying for a Part-Time Degree-Level course

All part-time degree-level courses are not offered through UCAS, and must be applied for directly through Colchester Institute. For this you will need to fill in and return to us as soon as possible. This application form can be downloaded here, quoting the relevant course code:

Download Part-Time HE Application Form

Download Cert Ed, PGCE and Postgraduate Application Form

For further information about our degree-level courses click here.

Applying as a Full-Time International Student (EU & Overseas)

Applications for Higher Education courses from International Students must also be made via the Universities and Colleges Admissions Service (UCAS). Applications can be made on-line from any country via the UCAS website at www.ucas.com. Details of all eligible courses are given at this site, Colchester Institute’s UCAS reference number is CINST C75. International Applications made via UCAS will be forwarded to us for processing but the offer and acceptance procedure is made through UCAS and not directly with us. Once we are notified of your acceptance we will request payment of your deposit for more information on fees and deposits click here.

Applying as an Part-Time International Student (EU only)

Students coming into the UK on a Tier 4 (General) student visa will only be eligible to apply for full-time courses at a minimum NQF level 3 or above or full-time English Language Programmes. Colchester Institute’s International Student Application Form is available to download. Before completing the application form you must read and understand the information about our Fee Payment and Refund Policy. On signing the application form you are agreeing to the terms of this policy. With your application form you must also send:

• Certified copies of your academic qualifications


• Where appropriate, evidence of your English Language ability (IELTS or equivalent)


• A reference to confirm your status and suitability for the course.


• An email or correspondence address where we can keep in touch with you about your application

Download Application Form – International Students (Part-Time) (PDF)

Print off and complete the International Applications Form and return it to: International Admissions Officer Colchester Institute Sheepen Road Colchester CO3 3LL