FdA Early Years Practice (Full-time, Evening Study) – 2026 Entry

For those qualifying at Level 3 prior to September 2014:

At least two years recent and relevant experience working with children in either paid or voluntary employment. Evidence from employer or voluntary organisation of a recent, clear DBS check (i.e. completed in the 12 months prior to the start of the programme). A full level 3 in Early Education & Childcare or equivalent. A level 3 full and relevant qualification (as listed by the DfE) in Early Education & Childcare is needed to work within a nursery environment and also to be counted in ratio. A list of these full and relevant qualifications can be found at: http://www.education.gov.uk/eypqd/level5.shtml Please note that this Foundation Degree is not full & relevant. English GCSE at grade C or equivalents. (e.g Level 2 key skills Communication, Level 2 Functional Skills.)

Candidates without this qualification will be required to write a short essay at the time of interview to demonstrate the ability to understand and make use of written material and are able to communicate clearly and accurately in spoken and written English. A satisfactory reference from their employer or voluntary organisation, which indicates support for the student in undertaking the Foundation Degree and in providing a mentor to support the student with the work based learning.

For those qualifying at Level 3 after September 2014: A level 3 qualification in Early Education and Childcare or equivalent. English GCSE at grade C or equivalents. (e.g Level 2 key skills Communication, Level 2 Functional Skills.) Candidates without this qualification will be required to write a short essay at the time of interview to demonstrate the ability to understand and make use of written material and are able to communicate clearly and accurately in spoken and written English. When employed or working voluntary in the Early Years Sector, a satisfactory reference from their employer or voluntary organisation, which indicates support for the student in undertaking the Foundation Degree and in providing a mentor to support the student with the work based learning.

Please note that this Foundation Degree is not full & relevant.

A minimum of 96 UCAS points. N.B. For students whose education has not been in English, evidence will be required of proficiency in English.

Typically, applicants will need to have achieved: Band 6.5 in the IELTS (International English Language Testing Scheme), and/or TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) score of 580 or above (completed within 2 years of date of application to the FdA)

Prior Learning and Experience

University Centre St Helens welcomes applications from mature students (aged 21+) and students from a varied range of backgrounds and experience. Offers of a place on the degree will not be based solely upon academic qualifications alone and related skills gained in the workplace will also be considered.

Additional Entry Requirements

All suitably qualified applicants will be invited to attend an interview. Your interview is designed to be an informal meeting and will also provide an opportunity for you to discuss and explore your career interests with the Programme Leader.

DBS Check

All prospective students will be advised at the entry stage that they must undergo a Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check to assess their suitability for access to a range of early years careers. In the event of a disclosure, this must be discussed with the Programme Leader before entry, who will then provide advice relating to placement and future employment criteria within the early years sector.

Information for International Applicants

If you are a non-EU/EEA/Swiss national, you may need to apply for a Tier 4 visa in order to enter and study in the UK. However, please note that University Centre St Helens does not hold a Tier 4 Sponsor Licence to support student visa applications.