Level 4/5 Foundation Degree Supporting Learning in Education
Course level: 4/5
Course code: Q1602
14/09/2026
Is this course right for me?
Delivered in partnership with the University of Wolverhampton*, the Foundation Degree Supporting learning in Education is designed for support staff currently working in primary schools, secondary schools, or colleges who are seeking a clear progression route into roles such as qualified teacher (QTS), inclusion specialist, or pastoral support professional.
The course offers a robust foundation in the principles of child and young person development, underpinned by current research and theory. It explores the full developmental journey from birth to 19 years, equipping you with the knowledge to critically evaluate and apply effective support strategies in educational settings.
A key focus of the programme is on learning pedagogy and the practical application of teaching and learning theories. You’ll engage deeply with current education policy, legislation, and inspection frameworks (such as Ofsted), gaining the skills to navigate and contribute to the evolving landscape of education.
The course also places strong emphasis on multi-agency collaboration, preparing you to work effectively with professionals across health, social care, and education sectors to support children, young people, and their families holistically.
Throughout your studies, you’ll develop essential personal and professional attributes through interactive learning, reflective practice, and collaborative activities. You’ll have access to a wide range of digital resources via the University of Wolverhampton’s online platforms (CANVAS) including:
- Lecturer-produced materials (module guides, assessment briefs, presentations)
- Online formative assessments and feedback
- Student-generated content such as video reflections and seminar recordings
- Interactive learning tools including video analysis and multimedia resources
Successful completion of the Foundation Degree opens the door to further study, including progression to the BA (Hons) Special Needs and Inclusion Studies at the University of Wolverhampton. Many graduates have gone on to become qualified teachers, higher level teaching assistants, and specialists in inclusion and pastoral care.
This course is ideal for those committed to making a meaningful impact in education through inclusive practice, evidence-based pedagogy, and collaborative support.
Course details
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 topics:
- Reflective practitioner
- Promoting inclusive practice
- Children and young persons development
- Safeguarding
- Exploring Autism
- 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 assessments
- Presentations
- Viva Voce (verbal assessments)
What can I do next?
Successful completion of the course will enable you to:
- Top up to complete the full BA (Hons) Special Educational Needs, Disabilities and Inclusion, with Childhood and Family Studies
- 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
Future careers
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Then it’s time to apply.
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