Supporting Teaching and Learning - Foundation Degree (FdA)

For further information, please contact Mid-Cheshire College on 01606 74444 or via email info@midchesh.ac.uk

Who is the programme for?

This qualification is designed for people who are currently involved with supporting teaching and learning in a classroom environment in Primary, Secondary or Further Education.

How long does it take to complete?

2 years part-time, one evening per week.

What qualifications do I need?

Students need to have 3 GCSEs at grade C or above including maths and English, plus a Level 3 qualification from any of the following programmes:

• BTEC Extended Diploma/Certificate/Award
• A/S - A Levels
• AVCE

Alternatively an NVQ Level 3 or equivalent or a Pass in an appropriate kite-marked Access to Higher Education course

Where possible an academic or vocational reference will be required to ensure suitability for this level of programme.
Students who do not meet the above admissions requirements will be considered for entry if they can demonstrate that they have relevant vocational experience, motivation and personal qualities appropriate for Foundation Degree level work.

In addition the applcant must:
a) Be able to demonstrate an ability to communicate in English to at least level 2 (GCSE or equivalent) in order to meet the programmes requirements. These requirements include the professional demands of supporting learning in literacy based areas of the curriculum.
b) Be able to demonstrate some relevant experience of supporting teaching and learning or working with learners in an educational setting.
c) Provide evidence of suitability / capability to work in an educational setting and the potential to achieve the academic requirement of the programme.
d) Have the written agreement of their current employer / line manager / placement setting to include:
• Employment (or placement) of at least 5 hours per week throughout time on the programme
• Permission to undertake work based activities within the setting as required by the programme.
• The allocation of a named workplace mentor who will facilitate workplace based learning.

What is the programme structure?

The programme consists of the following:

Level 4
• Improving Practice (Managing Personal Learning)
• Education Today
• Managing Behaviour and Raising Self-Esteem
• Developing Learning and Teaching

Level 5
• Work-Based Learning 2
• Research Study
• Multi-Agency Working
• Supporting Learners with Diverse Needs

What does it include?

The course develops knowledge of working in education, including legislation and policies affecting children; behavioural management; how children and adults learn; supporting literacy and numeracy; and special needs. Classrooms are fully equipped with interactive whiteboards. There is excellent library support both for text books and online journals. Tutors offer a wealth of experience of supporting teaching and learning at all levels.

Functional Skills

Functional Skills are not required for this course.

Are there any special facilities for the programme?

The facilities provided will be sufficient for the courses requirements.

How is the programme assessed?

This programme will be assessed by a combination of methods e.g. Presentations, work-based interventions, reflective practice, professional development logs, skills audit, research project alongside more traditional methods e.g. academic essays. There is no examination.

Will there be any extra costs involved?

Students may need to purchase text books and there will be some additional costs.

What if I need support?
The College provides a range of learning support for students who like extra help with their studies. If you need help in deciding what to study or information on travel, finance, childcare, personal or health concerns, contact the Students Services desk.

What award will I achieve?

Foundation Degree (FdA) in Supporting Teaching & Learning

Examining/Validating Body

Manchester Metropolitan University

What can I do next?

Students will have the opportunity to apply to progress on to the second or final year of an Honours Degree in a related area at any university. Students can apply to progress to the part-time route of the BA (Hons) Education for FdA at Manchester Metropolitan University (http://www.mmu.ac.uk) as a top up to Honours Degree from this Foundation Degree. Applications will be considered based on performance on Foundation Degree.

Equal Opportunities

Mid Cheshire College is committed to the implementation of a policy to achieve equality of opportunity for all staff, students and members of the community it serves. In doing so the College will actively work to achieve equality regardless of age, race, skin colour, disability, gender, marital status, sexuality and faith.

How do I get further information?

The fee for this course is yet to be confirmed. Contact the college on 01606 74444, visit the website www.midchesh.ac.uk or email info@midchesh.ac.uk