Queen's University Belfast Foundation Degree Early Childhood Studies

This course is suitable for all students who wish to work in an early years setting.

2025/26

10665

Lisburn

Full-Time

Higher Education

Early Years

Available Sessions

We have 1 sessions available for application on this course in Lisburn.

Course Structure

Modules studied over the two years

Professional Practice 1 - This module will enable learners to gain experience of 300 hours minimum in working with children 0-8 years and develop an understanding of Early Years Practitioner competencies

Learning through Play - This module will enable students to gain knowledge and understanding of the role of play in the development of children.

Quality Provision in Early Years - This module will enable students to explore aspects of quality early years practice and consider the provision of a stimulating and enriching environment.

Perspectives in Childhood - This module will help students understand the different sociological, historical and psychological perspectives of young children.

Child Development - This module will give students the opportunity to explore aspects of the developing child from conception to 8 years of age.

The Acquisition of Language and Communication Skills - This module will examine the acquisition of language through different theoretical perspectives.

Developing Skills and Strategies for Managing Children's Behaviour - This unit will enable participants to investigate a range of psychological perspectives in regard to children’s behaviour and focus on the ways in which behaviour develops.

Professional Practice 2 - This unit will enable learners to gain a minimum of 300 hours experience in working with children from birth to eight years while developing skills in reflective practice.

Working with Children with Additional Needs - This module will enable students to understand the concept of additional needs and the current attitudes, perceptions and values.

Anti-Discriminatory Practice and Inclusion in the Early Years Environment - This module will enable participants to explore the diverse needs of young children (0-8) in early year’s settings.

Science and Technology in the Early Years - This module will provide students with an in-depth understanding of how to support the development of children’s understanding of science and technology.

Safeguarding Children - This module will examine the knowledge, policies, procedures and practices required for early years workers to be effective in the protection of children.

Working with Babies - 0-3 Years This module will provide students with an in-depth understanding of working with children in the 0-3 age group.

This course will give you the skills to work in early years settings such as day nurseries or nursery schools and will allow for progression to the full BA degree.

To apply for this course you must apply via UCAS at Stranmillis University to be considered for this course.

GCSE and University General Entrance requirement statement

GCSE English Language Grade C or above;
GCSE Mathematics Grade C or above,
At least 1 other GCSE Grade C or above preferably in a Science subject

UCAS

A minimum of 64 UCAS points which may include:

2 A Levels at C or above
Level 3 Diploma or Extended Diploma at MMM grade or above
Level 3 Extended Diploma in Children's Care, Learning and Development at MMM or above

Republic of Ireland

Irish leaving certificate - normally BBBBB at Higher (must have English and Maths Ordinary level Grade D or better)

International requirements

Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR) level B2
IELTS 6.0; (minimum of 5.5 in all skills)
PTE 51 Or equivalent (Examples of equivalent qualifications would be a GCSE in English, Level 3 Programmes, Essential Skills in Literacy – Level 2, ESOL Level 2 or alternative qualifications gained at an Institution within the UK).

Admissions

Successful completion of the admissions process (Instructions as above - Via UCAS) APEL Provide evidence of ability to undertake the programme by meeting the requirements for the accreditation of prior experiential learning. Further details on APEL can be found in the admissions section.

(Please note these criteria may be enhanced by Queen's University Belfast, Stranmillis University College). Original examination evidence is also verified by Stranmillis University College Academic Registry prior to registration on the course.

Students are assessed using a range of different methods. These include examinations, coursework, Project Based Learning, presentations, practical, posters, leaflets, role-play, and case studies. This is dependent on the requirements of each unit of study. Oral, written and online feedback will be provided during your course to help improve and monitor performance.

On successful completion of the course you will graduate from Queen's University Belfast with a Foundation Degree in Early Childhood Studies. Those students who achieve the standard required by Stranmillis University College may be able to progress to Stage 2 of the full-time or part-time BA (Hons) Degree in Early Childhood Studies. Students also have the opportunity to top up this qualification through an online distance learning degree.

The Foundation Degree in Early Childhood Studies can lead to careers in early years such as nursery school worker, foundation stage teacher. The skills gained as part of this course will also allow the student to apply for jobs in schools or day nurseries.

All full-time students will be required to undertake study visits for which they will pay a nominal sum. This will be in the region of £30 per year. To attend placement, students will be required to have an enhanced Access NI check completed which will cost £33.

Queens University Belfast

Available Sessions

We have 1 sessions available for application on this course in Lisburn.

For more information or help with this course send us an enquiry and a member of our team will get back in touch.

UCAS Information

You can apply directly to SERC for this course using the Apply Now buttons.

If you apply directly to SERC we will process a UCAS application on your behalf in accordance with the Data Protection Act 2018/ UK GDPR.

Applications to our full-time undergraduate Higher Education courses can also be made through UCAS.

View SERC on UCAS

Available Sessions

Title	Campus	Start	Spaces	Fee	Apply or get more information
Queen's University Belfast Foundation Degree Early Childhood Studies Y10665LF1A-25/26-FT	Lisburn	01/09/2025	20+	£3167.00	More Info
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Terms & Conditions

Students will be required to comply with SERC's Terms & Conditions of study.

We strive to ensure the description of courses on SERC's website and in publications is accurate. However, for various reasons there may be occasions when the College may need to change arrangements or be unable to deliver classes due to circumstances such as reduced funding. If there are insufficient numbers applying for a course it may not be viable to deliver the class.

Courses are continually reviewed to take advantage of new teaching approaches and developments in research, industry and the professions. Please be aware that modules may change for your year of entry. The exact modules available and their order may vary depending on course updates, staff availability, timetabling and student demand. Please contact the course team for the most up to date module list.

Higher Education

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