Foundation Degree in Learning Support
Herefordshire College of Technology and University of Worcester
Link to course details on the University of Worcester website
Introduction
This Foundation Degree is a 2 year course. It is part of the current initiative from the DfES to provide access to higher education for students seeking to work or working within a learning support context.
The course is designed to provide a career pathway for people in employment within a range of settings that include children and adults who require support for learning. These might include Teaching Assistants, Practitioners in early years settings, Support/Care staff working in Social Services, health and voluntary sector institutions. The course would be of particular interest to those who are presently employed in a supportive role and who may aspire to enhance their professional standing within a particular discipline.
This Foundation Degree also represents a substantial step towards acquiring an initial degree that could subsequently provide a route to a PGCE and qualified teacher status. The course seeks to provide students with skills, knowledge and insight to enable them to make a valued contribution to the educational, social and emotional well-being of children and adults in a range of supportive contexts.
Development of Understanding
The course is firmly set within current legislative policy frameworks and is underpinned by the notion of social inclusion. It develops students’ understanding of areas such as child development, the law, teaching and learning styles, disability, communication and challenging behaviour.
Entry Requirements
At least 4 GCSEs of grade C or above plus UCAS tariff: 60 points from a 6 unit award (or equivalent) Accredited Key Skills Level 3 may be included in the total.
Other qualifications including: GCE A Levels equivalent to grade D; NVQ Level 3 or BTEC National Diploma.
We particularly welcome applications from mature students. Contact the Course Manager and Senior Lecturer for individual advice.
Course Content
Module titles include:
- Preparing to study
- Understanding learning support
- Literacy and numeracy
- Child development
- Partnerships in education
- Science and IT
- Managing challenging behaviour
- Talking and listening with others
- Inclusive practice in learning support
- An Introduction to research methods
- Inclusion in theory and practice
- An Introduction to social care strategies
- Work based Independent study (double module)
- Evaluation and change
There are no formal, time constrained, examinations. Assessment is continuously carried out by a combination of methods including essays, seminars, practical workshops, professional journals, projects and reports. All students will be assessed on their competency in a four module work placements.
Progression Opportunities
On successful completion of this course, progression on to a related top up degree is possible.
Key Facts
Herefordshire College of Technology & University of Worcester
Campus: Hereford
Duration: 2 years
Attendance: 1 day a week over 2 years
Course Fees: £3290
The University of Worcester fee policy will apply to this course. Bursaries are usually available.
Application:
UCAS application (F/T) code X300
Contact: Enquiries
0800 032 1986
enquiries@hct.ac.uk
