FdA Early Years and Education (Distance learning) at Anglia Ruskin University

Programme overview

Start your teaching career with a foundation degree in Early Years and Education. Study online by distance learning. Learn about the education sector, child development, play, safeguarding and equality.

Duration: 3 years part-time | Study mode: part-time | Intake: September 2027 | Location: Chelmsford, England, United Kingdom

What you will study

Develop your knowledge and understanding of child development, learning, communication and play. Throughout the course you'll also reflect on your own role as an early years professional, and learn about conducting research with, and about, younger children. Year 1: The Developing Child, Inclusive Research with Children, Safeguarding and Wellbeing. Year 2: Exploring a Sustainable Education, Developing Practice in the Workplace, Creative Pedagogy: How Children Learn (0-8). Year 3: Enhancing Practice in the Workplace, Communication Matters.

Career pathways

The course allows you to look more in-depth at different areas of childcare. [It inspired] me to change the outdoor area in my setting." A foundation degree in early years education can lead to a range of careers working with children. One of these is teaching, and you may choose to continue your studies.

Official programme page

Application information

Entry requirements

class="utopian-course-section target utopian-course-section__entry-requirements no-js no-js_hide"> Main 48 UCAS Tariff points from a minimum of 2 A Levels (or equivalent). 2 GCSEs at grade C, or grade 4, or above in English. Applicants should have experience working in the Early Years sector. If English is not your first language you will be expected to demonstrate a certificated level of proficiency of at least IELTS 6.0 (Academic level) or equivalent English Language qualification, as recognised by Anglia Ruskin University. Alternatives UCAS Tariff points acquired from BTEC Level 3 Diplomas are accepted. Access to HE Diplomas at overall Pass grade are accepted. Level 3 Childcare qualification. UCAS Tariff points from the Irish Leaving Certificate are accepted. UCAS Tariff points from Scottish Highers are accepted. UCAS Tariff points from Scottish Advanced Highers are accepted.

GBP 11,800 for the whole programme (2026/27). Tuition fee: Distance learning students starting 2026/27 (total cost) Source

Intake: September 2027

Duration: 3 years part-time

Apply through the official page: https://www.aru.ac.uk/study/apply-online?course=&route=u1671

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