Who is the Early Years Foundation Degree suitable for?
The Early Years Foundation Degree is suitable for experienced practitioners working directly with young children (aged 0-5 years) in a range of early years settings. The course covers all areas of care and development of young children. You need to hold a relevant level 3 qualification and be working full or part time in an early years setting.
The Early Years Foundation Degree is a stepping stone towards a full degree and Early Years Professional Status.
Click here for funding information in Dorset.
How long does it take?
The qualification takes 2-3 years to complete depending on the training provider you choose. With local training providers you attend college once a week, term time only (either late afternoon into the evening or during the day).
Distance learning is also an option, through Open University, with occasional local workshops.
Need more information before deciding?
Local colleges who deliver the Early Years Foundation Degree run preparation courses every summer term to give you essential skills, confidence and help you decide if the course is right for you.
You are likely to cover academic writing, note taking, critical analysis, research, presentation, learning styles, team work and how to reference. (Dorset Sure Start fund up to £150 for this course, if working in an eligible setting).
How do I apply?
Contact the training providers below. Once you
have selected your preferred provider, they will
complete the funding application with you.
(NB If you plan to study through OU, contact Dorset Sure Start direct for an application form).
Bournemouth & Poole College
MichelleTimberlake
01202 465735
timberlakem@bpc.ac.uk
Open University
0870 3334340
general-enquiries@open.ac.uk
University Centre Yeovil
01935 845454
www.ucy.ac.uk
Weymouth College
Roz Osborne
01305 764733
roz_osborne@weymouth.ac.uk
| Provider | Preparation Course | 2010 Courses |
Bournemouth & Poole College t: 01202 465735 |
1 session per week for 5 weeks starting |
Starts October 2010 (3 year course) Poole campus Exact dates/times tbc |
University Centre Yeovil t: 01935 845454 |
Starts at the end of April 2010 (8 weeks) Tuesdays 6.30pm–8.30pm Exact start date to be confirmed |
September 2010 (3 year course) Every Monday 5pm–9pm Start date to be confirmed |
Weymouth College t: 01305 764733 |
6pm-8pm every Tuesday from 4th May to 29th June 2010 (for 9 weeks). | September 2010 (3 year course) Every Thursday from 23rd September 2010 4.30pm-9pm |
Open University t: 0870 333 4340 |
n/a | May 2010 (distance study) Apply by end March 2010 October 2010 (distance study) Apply by end of Summer Term See course and award descriptions at www3.open.ax.uk/study |


