Are you working in education or training or keen to do so? This course enables students to work more confidently and expertly in the Further and Adult Education sectors, as well as in training environments. Also suitable for staff working as teaching assistants or in learning support roles.


Meet our students Elizabeth Lefever

Elizabeth Lefever

I’ve always wanted to work in the childcare industry and chose this course as the best option to further my career. I like the fact that I have work placements in nurseries and schools to get more experience and become more confident. The support staff and teachers are happy to help and full of encouragement.

Child Care

Meet our students Laura Pearce

Laura Pearce

As a teaching assistant, I find the course extremely relevant to my job. The course has taught me a lot about children’s learning development, and I’m applying what I’ve learnt so far within my role at the school where I work. Studying for a degree in Newbury is an advantage to me. I was thrilled that UCN’s partnership with the University of Reading made this possible for me. More...

Foundation Degree in Children's Development and Learning

  • Description

    Students are required to complete a minimum of 12 credits.

    This will be made up of:

    • Understanding roles, responsibilities and relationships in education and training. This unit is mandatory.
    • Understanding and using inclusive learning approaches in education and training. This is an optional unit.
    • Understanding Assessment in education and training. This is an optional unit and may be replaced by other units depending on educational expectations and trends

    Students must be prepared to work to deadlines and put in several additional study hours to complete this qualification successfully and on time. Extensions to assignments can only be given in exceptional circumstances.

  • Entry Requirements

    Students should have Level 2 qualifications in English and Maths or be willing to work towards gaining these. This course is for 19+ students and is open to older learners. All students will have an interview and carry out assessments.

    No previous experience is needed, although this could be advantageous. Students should be familiar with the educational environment. Students must be able to work at Level 3 and have proven qualifications to support this.

  • Qualification

    VTCT Level 3 Award in Education and Training

  • Progression

    This course marks the initial step in having a career in teaching or learner support. Students on completion could follow the Level 4 Certificate in Education and Training.

  • Assessment

    Assessments are by completion of set assignments and a final micro teach. The course is portfolio based. Assignments will be marked throughout the course and internally moderated for quality assurance.

  • Home Study

    It is expected that students should read and research the subjects set out on the course. Additional work could be up to two hours per week. Wider reading and research is essential. Students must be prepared to take on further study as expected by the lecturer. As such students should set aside approximately four to six hours per week in addition to class.

  • Work Placement

    There is no expectation that students are in employment. Work experience is not an essential part of accessing this course.

  • Fees and Additional Costs

    The main reading text will be: Preparing to Teach in the Lifelong Learning Sector - Ann Gravells. Further reading materials will be suggested by the lecturer to support understanding and knowledge.

* Terms and conditions apply. The fees stated on this website are for guidance purposes only and should be checked before enrolment. Unless otherwise stated, fees shown are for tuition only, over one academic year. Where a course is longer than one academic year, the fees stated are for the first year, and the cost of the second or subsequent years will be discussed at interview. For details of fee remission for students over 19 click here. If you think you may be entitled to a concession or fee remission, or you would like more information on the additional costs associated with your chosen course, please contact us on 01635 845000 or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..