FdA Children, Young People and Society

Programme Description

This foundation degree (FdA) is a two year full-time or three year part time higher education course which aims to give students the required theory and knowledge to work with children, young people and families in a variety of settings. Work/voluntary experience allows students to apply and observe how theory is put into practice however, this is not a competency based training. The course leads to a foundation degree qualification validated by University of Wales Trinity Saint David. A QCF Childcare qualification in professional practice can be studied alongside the FdA, at an additional cost.

At a Glance

Full Time

The course can be taken either full time or part time. If full time it is over two years two days a week. While part time is over three years one day a week or equivalent.

Ammanford Campus

Programme Features

Completion of work/voluntary experience in child or social care settings that help students to make informed career choices.

A variety of guest speakers for a variety of child or social care settings provide a wealth of knowledge, experience and recruitment opportunities.

No examinations - assessment is by completion of assignments throughout each year. Many opportunities to develop initiative, and group working skills

Student support is available ranging from learning support for study skills, through to financial advice and personal counseling

A small friendly staff team and small student groups of around 15-30 people

Programme Content

Students study eleven compulsory modules. The modules are as follows:

Level 4 - Year One:

Employability 1 - 20 credits
Learning in the Digital Era - 20 credits
Play, Recreation and Development - 20 credits
Curriculum Matters in Learning - 20 credits
Transitions in Childhood - 20 credits
Inclusion and Diversity - 20 credits

Level 5 - Year Two:

Employability 2 - 20 credits
Safeguarding Children and Young People - 20 credits
Research with Children and Young People - 20 credits
Being Part of Society - 20 credits
System Experienced: Care and Youth Justice - 20 credits

Progression & Employment

Whilst completion of the course does not guarantee progression, students completing the course have successfully undertaken degree programmes in social work, nursing or teaching. Employment is often gained in many local childcare, education agencies and social care based projects/roles.

Progression to the BA (Hons) Social Care Studies (top-up) at Coleg Sir Gâr is encouraged.

Method of Assessment

Assessment is by coursework completed throughout the year. There are no examinations.

Entry Requirements

One A-level or equivalent.

Access qualifications are welcomed.

Mature candidates may be accepted if they have practical or personal experience with no previous qualifications. Decisions are made on an individual basis following an interview.

The University of Wales Trinity Saint David welcomes applications on the basis of prior learning. All applicants must apply via UCAS using the course code L521 and institution code C22.

Additional Costs

Enhanced DBS - £44

Annual registration to DBS update service - £13

Graduate Attributes Framework

This Framework aims to develop your professional skills and competence alongside your academic subject knowledge. You’ll study up to 40 credits per level throughout your programme from the Graduate Attributes Framework. The Graduate Attribute modules are designed to enable you to develop, and evidence, a range of career-focused skills related to your subject area. These skills include digital competency, research and project management, as well as such personal competencies as communication, creativity, self-reflection, resilience and problem-solving.

Find out more about the Graduate Attributes Framework