Course overview

Early Years Foundation Degree City of Bristol College

This two-year Early Years Foundation Degree is run at City of Bristol College, in partnership with Bath Spa University.

This exciting, work-based programme is proven to raise the quality of practice in early years settings. It will empower you to transform your practice through reflection and research.

If you studied your Level 3 course with us, you could be eligible for our Higher Education Progression Bursary. You can find out more about our financial support options or download the HE progression bursary application form.

Apply via Bath Spa University

Institution name: BCBC
Institution code: B77
Course code: X310
Campus code: B
Short code: FdA/EY

Additional information

Who is this course for?

The course is aimed at individuals who are currently working in the early years sector, reception, KS1 and childminding who wish to gain a Level 5 qualification. 

What you'll learn

By the end of the course, you will have demonstrated the knowledge, skills and attitudes relevant to good early years practice, and you will have understood the theory underpinning early years education and care in different settings. The course consists of twelve modules and may cover topics such as: 

  • Childhood 
  • Children’s Rights 
  • Social Policy 
  • Safeguarding  
  • Children’s Holistic Health 
  • Positionality, Inclusion and Diversity 
  • Child Development 
  • Observation and Assessment 
  • Creativity 
  • Reflective Practice 
  • Research 
  • Working with Families 

Course entry requirements

Students usually need one or more of the following: 

  • Level 3 qualification in a relevant discipline 
  • Experience working in the early years sector 
  • Current employment or volunteering within the early years foundation stage or KS1 for at least two days per week 
  • Written support from your workplace offering a mentor and/or day release is essential 
  • DBS clearance

You may require an informal interview for this course. 

How is the course delivered and assessed?

This Foundation Degree is a full-time, Higher Education qualification, taught over one day a week at our Ashley Down Centre. 

 You will spend eight hours per week in college and a minimum of two days per week in the workplace. 

You will be assessed through: 

  • Essays 
  • Portfolios 
  • Presentations 
  • Workbooks 
  • Case Studies 
  • Reflective Journals 

Future career and study opportunities

After the course, you could: 

Additional costs

As a City of Bristol College student, you may incur additional costs to attend your course. For example, it is likely you may need to pay for travel and stationery. 

Many courses offer learning opportunities that you may need to pay for. This may include things like study visits and visiting speakers. We will let you know in advance if there will be additional costs.

Find out more about financial support available to you.

  • Career Coach
    For guidance on which career path to take, to explore career options related to our courses, find out which careers are in demand, and then get the training you need.

Where to find us