Where now (Foundation degrees)?

Where now (Foundation degrees)?

by: donnafrist - 26-01-04 12:07

I have recently completed a Foundation Degree in Early Childhood Studies, which topped up a HNC in Early Childhood Studies. These course were undertaken two evenings per week at Llandrillo College with an awful lot of hard work and effort put in at home. Our group was the first to achieve the Foundation Degree at Llandrillo, but unfortunately, the the college can take us no further at present. I have contacted many universities around the country to enquire if we could top our qualifications up to a degree as distance learner, but this facility does not seem to be available. If anyone knows any different, please let me know!!

I feel very disappointed that after so much hard work and effort, we cannot further our qualifications. Nursery Nurse positions within schools give no room for promotion and finding a different career is difficult in the small town we live in.

by: pat

Hi Donna

You could try the open university. I have transferred the 120 CAT points I have from the ADCE. As I wanted to transfer all 120 points I am not able to do a named degree, but the modules I am picking are all from the childhood and youth studies degree. Give them a go - after all the uni was set up specifically for distance learning. The good thing about the uni is that tutorials are held in your locality so you can meet other students and it doesn't make the learning experience quite so lonely if you know there are others in the same boat.

Where now (Foundation degrees)? - 27-01-04 14:51

by: donnafrist

hanks for the replies. I have recently applied to study an MA in early childhood education as a distance learner with Sheffield University.

A couple of the girls from the foundation degree intend to follow the O U route, but this will only allow us to achieve an 'Open degree'. I want a qualification in early childhood studies!

Where now (Foundation degrees)? - 27-01-04 14:52

by: pat

That's interesting about the open degree because if you read the OU's information about their own foundation degree, it states that this can be upgraded to the childhood and youth studies degree. Where did you find the info about the MA at Sheffield Uni - don't you need to have completed a full degree to do an MA?

Where now (Foundation degrees)? - 27-01-04 14:54

by: donnafrist

I am delighted to say I have been offered a place on the Masters course at Sheffield University - distance learning and I have accepted. The first of three residential weekends is in October. Will keep you posted.

Where now (Foundation degrees)? - 27-01-04 14:55

by: AnnieG

I was also on the same course as Donna. I have tried to top up with the Open University but this is not as easy as it seems. Level 3 courses are limited and the credit transfer is a minefield!
It just makes progressing harder, but it should be worth it in the end if I haven’t retired first!

Where now (Foundation degrees)? - 06-02-04 22:13

by: sally

Hi -

Congratulations on getting qualified!

If you are working full/part or voluntary, there is now a new alternative to the open university. There are degrees on offer that are called 'learning through work'. They're based on your area of interest and are mainly online, you have a one-to-one tutor and draw up a learning contract. So say you were interested in researching mathematical play, or playground games, you could choose to reasearch them as part of your degree. The assessment in the third year is to exhibit your work in a public area (local library etc)
I think they are also designed with AP(E)L in mind.
The one for Anglia Polytechnic University is aimed at the education sector and fees seem reasonably priced compared to others.
Go to http://www.apu.ac.ukand click on the pages for ultralab or ultraversity

If you go to the learn direct website and click on the ltw pages it gives more information and the application form / contract

Or...if you're interested in teaching there's always the registered teacher programme that you would qualify for?

Good luck!

Where now (Foundation degrees)? - 06-02-04 22:22

by: sally

Hi me again - sorry you may have trying to find the ultralab pages from the APU website - here's another address to try
http://degree.ultralab.net/

hopefully that will take you directly to their home page.

Sally

Where now (Foundation degrees)? - 07-02-04 09:12

by: jewels

Hi,

I am doing a Foundation Degree at Derby University, I know that when I have completed this I can go on to do a BA Hons, this will make it a full degree.
Contact them, I'm sure they can help, you can do this in Part time or Full time courses, and I think the surrounding Universities/colleges are also doing it.
Hope this helps, Good luck!!

Where now (Foundation degrees)? - 17-02-04 23:23

by: thebuffone

Donna, iam currently doing my hons for the BA in Early childhood studies at London Metropolitan University in Holloway Rd, London. The course is taught and distance, many students have completed distance. It used to be possible to enrol apr, jan and sept. Each module is 10wks long and it has been hard going but worth it. Fairly sure you can transfer yr credits. Beats spending 4 days away if you dont have to!
and you can have 2 or modules under your belt by October if you wanted.

Where now (Foundation degrees)? - 19-02-04 18:02

by: Rusry

I started a HND Diploma course in Bedford with a few friends. Having completed to HNC level we were told that we could not complete the HND and would have to find another college that would accomodate us.

I decided to contact a variety of colleges to no avail,I eventually contacted North London University where they advised on the different courses they had on offer. I decided to study a BA In Childhood Studies using the Long Distance method. I completed one year by Long distance and the 2nd year by attending the university one evening a week. I am now planning to finish off the last modules by long distance as I have other responsibilities, (a 21 monthe old daughter).

Where now (Foundation degrees)? - 20-02-04 21:29

by: Programme Leader

Donna, University College Chester will have a Level 3 course available this September for students intersted in progressing their studies from a Foundation Degree to an Honours Degree. You would need to apply via our Admissions Dept. This may be what you are looking for and we are not too far away from where you live. You can look at the modules available as they are those at Level 3, of the BA (Hons) Early Years (Part-time) programme, accessed via the college's web site www.chester.ac.uk Please note, though, that this is not a distance learning package.

Where now (Foundation degrees)? - 22-02-04 12:45

by: jjjel

I am intending to be a 'mature student' at 39. I have only received my NVQ 3 last year and would like to progress. What would be the best route for p/time learning, I do work in a nursery too and have 3 children in senior school. I would like to do a foundation degree but should I be doing something before that like HND or HNC, does any body know what are the the qualifications in early years and childcare in order of importance? May be some one could type a top ten of qualifications in order of importance to help me. An open university degree or a adult learner at a local college? thanks

Where now (Foundation degrees)? - 23-02-04 13:51

by: ASM

Hiya, just been reading your post on having completed your HNC in early childhood studies. I am currently doing a HND in early years studies myself in Blackpool. It is possible after completing this that you can top it up to a degree at the university of central lancashire (www.uclan.ac.uk. Once you have done this you can access teacher training courses or further your career prospects in which ever way you like. I hope this is of some help to you, and good luck with your studies.

Where now (Foundation degrees)? - 23-02-04 14:03

by: ASM

A HND is a higher qualification than a foundation degree and can be completed on a part time basis over 3 years. This qualification is the equivalent to 2/3rds of a full degree and can be topped up at university.
I am currently studying for a HND in early childhood studies full time and spend 16 hours per week at college and 1 day per week at placement. your current place of work can be classed as your placement so long as you are working in childcare, so this means you would only need to find time for the college study.

Where now (Foundation degrees)? - 26-02-04 19:52

by: sarah5557

hi i am 18 years old and am wanting to do a foundation degree to help me in the nursery where i work Any ideas?
i started nvq level 2 early years care and education but found it too much like the playworker course i did.
please help

Where now (Foundation degrees)? - 26-02-04 19:53

by: sarah5557

hi i am 18 years old and am wanting to do a foundation degree to help me in the nursery where i work Any ideas?
i started nvq level 2 early years care and education but found it too much like the playworker course i did.
please help

Where now (Foundation degrees)? - 01-03-04 11:57

by: tiespuddin

Hi, are you wanting to undertake your teacher training? Go to www.useyourheadteach.gov.uk Brilliant web site, shows all routes to teacher training including employment based training in a school. Exp of work with children goes a long way, also doing volentry work in a school, not just about degrees - may be helpful. best of luck

Where now (Foundation degrees)? - 15-04-04 11:45

by: donnafrist

Hi Guys,

Thanks for all the suggestions. I am currently studying towards a Master of Arts in Early Childhood Education, as a distance learner with the University of Sheffield. The course is directed by Dr. Cathy Nutbrown. It is extremely well co-ordinated, informative and lots of fun. It will take two and a half years to achieve, but I am nearly half way there already.

Where now (Foundation degrees)? - 15-04-04 11:46

by: donnafrist

Hi Guys,

Thanks for all the suggestions. I am currently studying towards a Master of Arts in Early Childhood Education, as a distance learner with the University of Sheffield. The course is directed by Dr. Cathy Nutbrown. It is extremely well co-ordinated, informative and lots of fun. It will take two and a half years to achieve, but I am nearly half way there already.

Where now (Foundation degrees)? - 15-04-04 11:46

by: donnafrist

Hi Guys,

Thanks for all the suggestions. I am currently studying towards a Master of Arts in Early Childhood Education, as a distance learner with the University of Sheffield. The course is directed by Dr. Cathy Nutbrown. It is extremely well co-ordinated, informative and lots of fun. It will take two and a half years to achieve, but I am nearly half way there already.

Where now (Foundation degrees)? - 15-04-04 11:47

by: donnafrist

Thanks for all the suggestions. I am currently studying towards a Master of Arts in Early Childhood Education, as a distance learner with the University of Sheffield. The course is directed by Dr. Cathy Nutbrown. It is extremely well co-ordinated, informative and lots of fun. It will take two and a half years to achieve, but I am nearly half way there already.

Where now (Foundation degrees)? - 15-04-04 11:47

by: donnafrist

Hi Guys,

Thanks for all the suggestions. I am currently studying towards a Master of Arts in Early Childhood Education, as a distance learner with the University of Sheffield. The course is directed by Dr. Cathy Nutbrown. It is extremely well co-ordinated, informative and lots of fun. It will take two and a half years to achieve, but I am nearly half way there already.

Where now (Foundation degrees)? - 16-04-04 16:15

by: Bee

Hi Donna
I am currently studying towards a degree in Youth and childhood studies with the OU.What course are doing and how are you finding it?
Ihave done DD100,DSE212, DXR222 and now ED209.

Where now (Foundation degrees)? - 27-04-04 22:30

by: Saffron

Has anyone done the Cache Advanced diploma in childcare and education? Was it interesting and what can you do with it? I am living in Galway Ireland and there is nothing I can study to progress beyond my NCVA level two childcare certificate here, but West Kent college offer the Cache Advanced diploma via distance learning so it seems to be my only option to learn more.

Where now (Foundation degrees)? - 28-04-04 21:20

by: Bee

Saffron I did the ADCE with CACHE but I went to college to complete it. It was very interesting and I am gald I did it. I hope that has helped.

Bee

Where now (Foundation degrees)? - 08-05-04 18:40

by: gresha

Hi, I am currently studying a Level 3 CACHE Diploma in Preschool Practise. (DPP) with the National Extension College. http://www.nec.ac.uk/
I also got 'unblocking barriers' funding from my LEA. Excellent course. You need a lot of motivation to work completely by yourself but take a look at the forum, there is a great classroom feel and my tutor is great.

Where now (Foundation degrees)? - 11-07-04 21:51

by: claresy

Hi,I@ve just been reading the
messages about the foundation degrees with interest as I am due to start a Foundation Degree in Early Years in September.Thought this might be the best route into teaching for me seeing as I have 2 young children.Would like to hear from anyone who has attempted this type of course and ran a family.Am I doing the right thing!

Where now (Foundation degrees)? - 13-07-04 11:56

by: Jacky

Hi, I have just completed the 2nd year of the Foundation Degree and I am married with 1 child. I will be honest and tell you that it is hard work balancing everything but most of the girls on my course are in the same boat. We have all found it very hard to balance things, but we manage somehow!! As for it being a route into teaching, I was told the same but now we are being told so many different things about where we go form here. Can anyone tell me what do I do after this to get into teaching???

Where now (Foundation degrees)? - 15-07-04 19:02

by: jilly

I'm due to start a foundation degree in Educare and Early Childhood in Sept and have been told that once i've completed i'll be able to join the final year of the BA (Hons) Early Years and then join either Graduate Teacher Programme or do PGCE.

Where now (Foundation degrees)? - 29-07-04 15:15

by: bluebelle2002

Hi

I am currnetly a teaching assistant in FS2 after being in FS1 for 3 years. I have completed my NVQ level 3. I want to start the Foundation degree but as i work for the Forces in Germany I need to do it by distance learning as anybody got any ideas. I have had a work interview to see where to go next but keep geting told to do it by OU. As i wish ti train as early years teacher i am getting loads to differnt messages. CAN ANYBODY PLEASE POINT ME TO SOMEBODY WHO MAY BE ABLE TO HELP as i love my job but want to keep studying and i may have to give it up and come home to do it.
Thanks Bluebelle.

Where now (Foundation degrees)? - 06-08-04 12:56

by: HelenP

I would suggest you look at the DfES website, click on this link:
http://www.surestart.gov.uk/ensuringquality/training/foundationdegree/
All foundation degrees should feed into the final year of a related honours degree programme allowing you to 'top up' to full degree status - you can then do a PGCE in order to teach, or there are 2 pilots for Foundation degree students who wish to teach at Manchester Met Uni and Canterbury Christ Church, it's called the EBEY, employment based early years. Plenty of unis do distance learning packages now, not just the OU, look at all those listed on the site and contact the relevant tutors to ask more. Good luck.

Where now (Foundation degrees)? - 13-08-04 21:14

by: sally

Hi Bluebelle

I'm a Forces Wife and there's a course I can recommend. The BA degree with London Met - its completely distance learning. Very friendly and it can follow you wherever you go. It costs around £145 per module. webiste address is http://www.londonmet.ac.uk

Where now (Foundation degrees)? - 03-12-04 07:48

by: hazelwillis

I am studying a BA (Hons) by distance larning with The London Metroplitan University. They accepted me onto their course at Level 2 with my ADCE 120 CAT points successfully transfered.

Where now (Foundation degrees)? - 03-12-04 07:52

by: hazelwillis

Yes I did the ADCE with Carshalton College as a distance learner. I found the course VERY Rewarding. My word of caution would be check out how long the tutors have been running the course. I encountered problems when they changed and work got lost. Keep a copy of everything!!!!

Where now (Foundation degrees)? - 17-01-05 09:38

by: karen j

Hi donna
I am doing my foundation degree through open university, i can then transfer my credits to a BA hons in childhood and youth studies, they are very helpful

Where now (Foundation degrees)? - 20-02-05 20:03

by: audrey hepburn

i found the same as you all that kowledge and qualification and no where to go!! i worked my way up to managerial status and now i'm lecturing at my local college whilst studying for my certificate in education which allows me to teach 16+. i find this incredibly rewarding to be giving my klnowledge back to the next generation. (by the way i'm only 23!!)

Where now (Foundation degrees)? - 20-02-05 20:04

by: audrey hepburn

i found the same as you all that kowledge and qualification and no where to go!! i worked my way up to managerial status and now i'm lecturing at my local college whilst studying for my certificate in education which allows me to teach 16+. i find this incredibly rewarding to be giving my klnowledge back to the next generation. (by the way i'm only 23!!)

Where now (Foundation degrees)? - 25-03-05 17:45

by: rosielucas

Hi, this is a request for advice from donna and anyone else. i am thinking of doing that masters in early ch ed at sheffield but as it is expensive i am keen to know more about it. my aim is to become a more effective teacher ( i teach a nursery class -i have a pgce.) do you feel the masters is helping you with that? also how many hours a week of study do you put in becasue i have to work full time. also how did you raise funding for it? Please advise as I am keen but it will be a big investment for me. thanks!

Where now (Foundation degrees)? - 05-04-05 22:31

by: Helenreed82

I am currently half way through my foundation degree. Studying part time, working full time. Its hard work juggling everything but is well worth it.

Where now (Foundation degrees)? - 09-04-05 22:22

by: bramblebearz

Hi there,
I am just in the final stages of completeing a BA Hons degree in early childhood studies at NEWI in wrexham (north wales), im sure there are people within our course that have done the foundation degree. dont know if you have contacted them. Hilary Fabian or Karen Grimshaw are the people to ask for.

Where now (Foundation degrees)? - 04-05-05 20:14

by: suzyq6662000

Hi, I'm a Registered Childminder and am 3 weeks into the foundation degree. I have completed CACHE level 3 CCP-specifically for childminders, NCMA level 3 Quality First and NVQ level 3 EYCE. I have 4 girls of my own - 17, 2 x 16 and 6yrs. I currently care for 3 under 5 and 1 yr old. I`m a Support Childminder, a Sponsored Childminder and also joint chair of our local childminding association. Are there any other childminders out there who have completed the foundation degree or are in the process?? Please tell me that I'm doing the right thing and it will all be worth it in the end......!!
Thanks, Sue.

Where now (Foundation degrees)? - 15-05-05 23:35

by: suzyq6662000

I am a Registered Childminder and started the foundation degree in April this year. I have 2 level 3 qualifications relating specifically to childminding...CCP and NCMA Quality First. I also have level 3 EYCE. The course has only been running for a year at the college we attend, and there are only 4 childminders doing this course. Some other cm's are quite suprised that we are doing this course. Before long, we know that Ofsted are going to insist on a minimum level 3 qualification to become a cm, which will hopefully weedle out cm's who only do the job for money and not for the well being of the children, and hopefully will raise the status of cm's and will be looked upon as childcare professionals.
Sue
http://freewebs.com/suetrottregisteredchildminder

Where now (Foundation degrees)? - 26-05-05 21:14

by: pwflynn

hi, no you don't have to have a degree to do an MA, but the degree does entail a lot of work, not for the faint hearted. It would help if you were up to date on essay writing technique as well.

Where now (Foundation degrees)? - 13-06-05 19:31

by: jcab

Hi, I have just completed the CACHE National Diploma in Child Care and Education. i find out my results on the 15th July. I was just wondering the course you have just completed, would I be able to do this course as a follow up from the course i have just done.

Where now (Foundation degrees)? - 13-06-05 19:39

by: jcab

Hi, I have just completed the CACHE National Diploma in Child Care and Education. i find out my results on the 15th July. I was just wondering the course you have just completed, would I be able to do this course as a follow up from the course i have just done.

Where now (Foundation degrees)? - 02-09-05 11:33

by: cobley

hi I am looking at the BA early childhood studies course @ the london met.
Is this a good course? How many hours per week of study etc is expected? Is it totally distant learning? D o you have to be actually working in a provision and if so how many hours per week? Hope someone can enlighten me!!!! As I have just tried to speak to someone at the Met but not very helpful!!!

Where now (Foundation degrees)? - 02-09-05 14:36

by: scarlett

i want to do a level 4 course, but dont know whether to do it in Early years or management? the new senior practitioner role coming out soon, is that a level 4 in early years or just any level 4.i am also struggling to find a course provider for level 4.
any advice anyone?

Where now (Foundation degrees)? - 04-09-05 09:48

by: milanocentro

I am also interested in doing the BA (Hons) in Early Childhood Studies at London Met Uni in London. I believe someone on this forum started it last year. Can you comment? Thanks!

Where now (Foundation degrees)? - 08-09-05 07:24

by: Mopane

Hi from sunny Botswana, Africa

I Live in Botswana, I trained NNEB 15 years ago, and am now about to start an Avance Certificate in Reception year with UNISA, via correspondence.

1. I need to get hold of NNEB for a transcript of my coursework. Can anyone help??

2. Can anyone reccomend a distance learning program from there to help me?? as i eventually want to progress to degree in Primary Education, Is there a degree in pre-school ed. and will my prior learning be recognised.

Hope you can help.

Where now (Foundation degrees)? - 08-09-05 16:30

by: milanocentro

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Where now (Foundation degrees)? - 10-11-05 15:35

by: rohan

Hi everyone! Just to say that I am a qualified teacher from Spain and I cannot find a job other than a nursery nurse as it seems that my 3 year degree in teaching (3 to 11 years old) is not "good enough" in the UK. I gained my British QTS one year ago and I have been told way so many times that I should do a Foundation degree in Early years which, to be honest, don't think it is better than my degree. My friend is doing it, she is in her second year, and so far she is very good at doing essays that is teaching her nothing about teaching. I would not like to think that some Nursery teachers are...
[more]
Hi everyone! Just to say that I am a qualified teacher from Spain and I cannot find a job other than a nursery nurse as it seems that my 3 year degree in teaching (3 to 11 years old) is not "good enough" in the UK. I gained my British QTS one year ago and I have been told way so many times that I should do a Foundation degree in Early years which, to be honest, don't think it is better than my degree. My friend is doing it, she is in her second year, and so far she is very good at doing essays that is teaching her nothing about teaching. I would not like to think that some Nursery teachers are scared of Continental teachers who might have some good and fresh ideas about children and education

Where now (Foundation degrees)? - 10-11-05 15:37

by: rohan

Hi everyone! Just to say that I am a qualified teacher from Spain and I cannot find a job other than a nursery nurse as it seems that my 3 year degree in teaching (3 to 11 years old) is not "good enough" in the UK. I gained my British QTS one year ago and I have been told way so many times that I should do a Foundation degree in Early years which, to be honest, don't think it is better than my degree. My friend is doing it, she is in her second year, and so far she is very good at doing essays that is teaching her nothing about teaching. I would not like to think that some Nursery teachers are...
[more]
Hi everyone! Just to say that I am a qualified teacher from Spain and I cannot find a job other than a nursery nurse as it seems that my 3 year degree in teaching (3 to 11 years old) is not "good enough" in the UK. I gained my British QTS one year ago and I have been told way so many times that I should do a Foundation degree in Early years which, to be honest, don't think it is better than my degree. My friend is doing it, she is in her second year, and so far she is very good at doing essays that is teaching her nothing about teaching. I would not like to think that some Nursery teachers are scared of Continental teachers who might have some good and fresh ideas about children and education

Where now (Foundation degrees)? - 10-11-05 15:38

by: rohan

Hi everyone! Just to say that I am a qualified teacher from Spain and I cannot find a job other than a nursery nurse as it seems that my 3 year degree in teaching (3 to 11 years old) is not "good enough" in the UK. I gained my British QTS one year ago and I have been told way so many times that I should do a Foundation degree in Early years which, to be honest, don't think it is better than my degree. My friend is doing it, she is in her second year, and so far she is very good at doing essays that is teaching her nothing about teaching. I would not like to think that some Nursery teachers are...
[more]
Hi everyone! Just to say that I am a qualified teacher from Spain and I cannot find a job other than a nursery nurse as it seems that my 3 year degree in teaching (3 to 11 years old) is not "good enough" in the UK. I gained my British QTS one year ago and I have been told way so many times that I should do a Foundation degree in Early years which, to be honest, don't think it is better than my degree. My friend is doing it, she is in her second year, and so far she is very good at doing essays that is teaching her nothing about teaching. I would not like to think that some Nursery teachers are scared of Continental teachers who might have some good and fresh ideas about children and education

Where now (Foundation degrees)? - 10-11-05 15:41

by: rohan

Hi everyone! Just to say that I am a qualified teacher from Spain and I cannot find a job other than a nursery nurse as it seems that my 3 year degree in teaching (3 to 11 years old) is not "good enough" in the UK. I gained my British QTS one year ago and I have been told way so many times that I should do a Foundation degree in Early years which, to be honest, don't think it is better than my degree. My friend is doing it, she is in her second year, and so far she is very good at doing essays that is teaching her nothing about teaching. I would not like to think that some Nursery teachers are...
[more]
Hi everyone! Just to say that I am a qualified teacher from Spain and I cannot find a job other than a nursery nurse as it seems that my 3 year degree in teaching (3 to 11 years old) is not "good enough" in the UK. I gained my British QTS one year ago and I have been told way so many times that I should do a Foundation degree in Early years which, to be honest, don't think it is better than my degree. My friend is doing it, she is in her second year, and so far she is very good at doing essays that is teaching her nothing about teaching. I would not like to think that some Nursery teachers are scared of Continental teachers who might have some good and fresh ideas about children and education