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Queen's University Belfast Foundation Degree In Early Childhood Studies

Belfast Metropolitan College

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Course options

  • Qualification

    Foundation Degree

  • Location

    Millfield Campus

  • Study mode

    Full time

  • Start date

    01-SEP-25

  • Duration

    2 years

Course summary

The Foundation Degree in Early Childhood Studies at Belfast Met is your gateway to a rewarding career working with children and young people! If you have a passion for making a positive impact on the lives of 0-8 year olds, this two-year, full-time course is tailored for you.

Course Overview: Our Foundation Degree, validated by Stranmillis University College and Queens University Belfast, strikes a perfect balance between classroom learning and practical experience. You'll spend three days per week immersed in stimulating classes and two days per week gaining hands-on experience in a work placement with children aged 0-8 years.

Key Areas of Study:

Child Development: Gain in-depth knowledge of the developmental stages of children aged 0-8.
Learning Through Play: Explore the importance of play in early childhood education and development.
Safeguarding Children: Understand the crucial principles and practices of child protection.
Working with Children with Additional Needs: Learn to provide inclusive care for children requiring additional support.

Unique Learning Experience: Our teaching approach is dynamic and engaging, focusing on both academic excellence and practical skill development. Project Based Learning activities, including visits to forest schools, W5, the Ulster Museum, and Botanic Gardens, enrich your understanding. Collaborative events like World Book Day with local primary schools and partnerships with other Belfast Met departments enhance your transferable skills.

Student Satisfaction: In both 2022 and 2023, 100% of our learners reported high satisfaction levels with the course (NUS, 2022; NUS, 2023). We are committed to ensuring that every student's learning journey is fulfilling and rewarding.

Pathways to Higher Education: Successful completion of our Foundation Degree opens doors to various opportunities. You can apply for the BA (Hons) Degree in Early Childhood Studies at Stranmillis University College, advancing to Year 2 on a full or part-time basis. For those aspiring to teach in Northern Ireland, meeting specific GCSE requirements allows progression to teaching qualifications. Additionally, you can explore top-up options at various universities in the UK and ROI.

Career Opportunities: A Foundation Degree in Early Childhood Studies qualifies you for diverse roles in the education and childcare sectors. From nursery school assistant and classroom assistant to childcare assistant and early years specialist, you'll be equipped to make a difference.

Embark on your journey to becoming a skilled and compassionate professional in early childhood education. Join us at Belfast Met, where learning goes beyond the classroom, and your success is our priority. Apply now for a fulfilling career shaping the future of our youngest learners!

Early application is recommended due to the extremely high demand for this course.

This course is likely to include additional professional qualifications which are included to enhance your employability.

Please read our Terms and Conditions before applying for or enrolling on any of our courses.

Tuition fees

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(International fees)

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Entry requirements

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GCSE/National 4/National 5 : C - A

You must have four GCSEs Grades A-C, including English and Maths or equivalent approved qualifications

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University information

Belfast Metropolitan College

  • Campus address

    Belfast Metropolitan College, 7 Queens Road, Belfast, Antrim, BT3 9DT, Northern Ireland

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