Firm foundations - Level 5 qualifications in childcare and early years education

FOUNDATION DEGREES

These intermediate, work-related higher education qualifications have been designed in conjunction with employers to meet skills shortages at the higher technician and associate professional levels.

Course provider: Universities in partnership with higher education colleges and further education colleges.

Entry qualifications: There are no set entry requirements and work experience may be more important than qualifications.

Duration: A full-time course takes two years and a part-time one is often three to four years pro rata.

Methods of study: Classroom, distance or work-based learning.

Course content: Modules vary, but core units include child development, management, options for specific roles and career paths, theory, practice and context of working with children, ICT and work-based modules.

Funding: Students can qualify for a financial support package, which includes fees paid or reduced, £500 annual bursary, the loan of a laptop computer and printer, payment towards registered childcare and reimbursement towards employers' supply cover costs.

Career moves: On completion, students can progress to a full honours degree with just a further 12 to 15 months of full-time study (this can also be done on a part-time basis over a longer period).

HIGHER NATIONAL DIPLOMAS

These higher education diplomas comprise practical and vocational training and qualify students to apply for roles ranging from assistant to management posts in an early years setting, although each institution will have its own entry requirements and syllabus.

HIGHER NATIONAL DIPLOMA IN EARLY CHILDHOOD STUDIES

The focus of this diploma is to provide education and training for a range of careers in the early years sector, and to develop knowledge, understanding and skills in the field of early years, care and education.

Course provider: Universities and colleges - check with UCAS.

Entry qualifications: Either 2 A-level passes, a BTEC National Diploma, GNVQ Advanced (AVCE), CACHE Diploma (DCE/NNEB/DNN), NVQ Level 3 or access to HE at Level 3.

Duration: Two years full time.

Methods of study: Taught sessions, workplace practice, seminars, research and self-directed study. Students are required to attend an approved early years placement one day a week.

Course content: Range modules that take a multi-disciplinary approach to the education and care for children from birth to eight years of age within the context of their family and culture.

Career moves: Progression to a BA in Early Childhood Studies, from which it is possible for some students to access a PGCE (Postgraduate Certificate in Education) or EYPS (Early Years Professional Status).