Course code: Q1602
21/09/2026
a future HE student (HE)
https://www.wolvcoll.ac.uk/level-4-5-foundation-degree-supporting-learning-in-education-enquiry-form/
Delivered in partnership with The University of Wolverhampton* If you currently work as a member of support staff in a primary school, secondary school or college, the Foundation Degree will give you a progression route to qualified teacher status (QTS). The course will help you to develop a more indepth understanding of the theories of children and young persons development by looking at current research in the field and give you the opportunity to develop your skills by extending your understanding and knowledge of new developments and services in the sector. The course provides an understanding of childhood incorporating all aspects of development of children and young people from birth to 19 years, as well as current legislation which affects young children and their family. This will enable you to evaluate and develop appropriate support approaches and reflective thinking when working in the sector. Throughout the course there is an emphasis on the development of practical, personal and professional attributes and includes developing a knowledge of supporting teaching and learning in education. Successful completion of the Foundation Degree will enable you to progress to a BA(Hons) Special Needs and Inclusion Studies at the University of Wolverhampton. You will have access to electronic copies of all lecturer-produced course documents e.g. module guides, assessment briefs, presentations, handouts, and reading lists and resources will be made available through the University of Wolverhampton's online learning environment (CANVAS) and a range of teaching webfolios via PebblePad ePortfolio. You will also benefit from a range of online formative assessments, including small group learning sets, and will be able to access e-portfolio whole group and individual blogs where you will be able to access assessment feedback and collaborate with others in your learning cohort. You will also have access to a range of student-generated resources including videos of debates, seminars and presentations and video clips of students reflecting on critical incidents, as well as engaging in interactive learning during all face-to-face sessions, with the use of video analysis, multi-media resources and web materials. We have a high success rate on this course and excellent feedback from our past students, many of whom have gone on to become teachers or higher level teaching assistants. NOTE: You will have the opportunity to apply for 40 credits RPL (recognition of prior learning) at Level 4. *APPLY NOW - applications for this course should be made directly to the University of Wolverhampton via this link: https://www.wlv.ac.uk/courses/fd-arts-supporting-learning/
Entry Requirements: To access this course you are required to: Be employed or have one-to-two years' post-qualifying experience working with children and families or be in a long-term voluntary placement in a primary school, secondary school or college setting Hold a Level 3 qualification in a related subject - eg NVQ Level 3, Diploma in Childcare and Education, T-Level in Early Years and Education, BTEC National Diploma, NNEB Diploma or Level 3 Diploma Teaching Assistant Usually be over 21 years of age You will also be required to have a satisfactory DBS (Disclosure & Barring Service) check We also offer the opportunity to accredit prior certificated learning at Level 4 through the APL system.
What will I learn? During this course you will study the following modules: Reflective practitioner Promoting inclusive practice Children and young persons development Safeguarding Exploring Autisim Supporting teaching and learning with Teaching and learning in Education settings Developing critical reflection and practice Enabling learning Exclusion from school and social justice Research methods
What skills will I gain? By studying this course you will: Build on your professional experiences, linking them to theory Gain an understanding of educational settings, considering how you can meet and address the challenges of inclusive education Reflect on your professional development in a positive way as members of a diverse global society Feel confident in challenging assumptions and responding to different views in an enterprising way Adopt collaborative ways of working with parents and other professionals Consider a range of issues and perspectives surrounding working with vulnerable groups Study current policies, procedures and practice, relating these to your workplace experiences Develop and consolidate a range of employability skills, including sharing information, working with and in groups, presenting information, digital literacy and critical thinking skills
How will I be assessed? Throughout the course you will be assessed in the following ways: Practical, written and online assessments Written assignments In-class tests Presentations Viva Voce (verbal exam)
What can I do next? Successful completion of the course will enable you to: Progress to a BA (Hons) Special Needs and Inclusion Studies at the University of Wolverhampton Pursue a career in primary, secondary or post 16 education in a number of roles including teaching, social work, health education or educational welfare officer
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