FdA Learning Support: Special Education Needs

Key course facts

The courses are based around work-based learning as well as academic study and have been designed by Glyndŵr University lecturers, further education tutors, representatives from local authorities and serving teachers and staff from a range of settings working with children and young people

• The courses will help you to acquire valuable skills for the education support sector
• You will develop your knowledge, understanding and practical skills to be able to plan, manage and reflect on your own learning and to manage progression appropriate to your role in the workplace. You will monitor and evaluate progress in your own learning and be able to relate your learning to the Higher Level Teaching Assistants (HLTA) Standards
• You will also develop your ability to communicate appropriately and effectively in a variety of ways, use a range of different media, relate theory to practice, undertake research and work effectively as a member of a team

There are two pathways within the foundation degree: a general teaching and learning route or a special educational needs route. Some of the modules will be common to both routes while others are specialist modules for that route.

Modules

(All modules 20 credits)

Level 4

Academic Skills and Reflective Practice
Learning Theories (Pedagogy)
The Learning Environment
Behaviour Support
Specialist Skill Development in Educational Support
Supporting Children and Young People: Words and Number

Level 5

Planning and Assessment for Learning
Research Methods
Equality, Diversity and Inclusion
Safeguarding
Independent Living and Learning
Meeting Complex Needs

Career opportunities

With these foundation degrees you can broaden your understanding of your role in the educational setting, increase your understanding of children’s learning and the educational system. The course can open doors to a variety of routes into a career in education and prepares you for assessment against the National Standards for HLTA status.

Employability

Glyndŵr University is committed to ensuring all of our graduates are well-equipped for the world of work.

Course duration

Part-time
2 years

Two taught sessions per week

Entry requirements and applying

You will need:

• A minimum of two years’ appropriate work experience as a support assistant
• Current involvement in a school, nursery, or educational setting, employed or voluntary, for approximately 150 hours per year
• A statement from the head teacher/centre manager confirming your suitability and identifying a designated person who will act as the supporting coach
• Disclosure and Barring Service clearance (previously known as CRB)

Additional entry requirements

Applicants will normally require the following:

• A minimum of GCSE/NVQ2 or equivalent English
• Successful completion of a relevant NVQ3/CACHE/BTEC or equivalent course

A candidate may be admitted to the course without formal academic qualifications so long as he/she can provide very clear evidence of his/her suitability in terms of motivation and the ability to succeed. This will be evidenced through the written recommendation of the head teacher/setting manager.

All candidates will be required to attend an interview. At the time of interview they will need to complete a written task to confirm their personal skills in literacy.

The university has in place systems and processes to provide support for students who have not had experience of studying in higher education. It has, for example, a module for developing academic and ICT skills which is intended to increase your confidence in writing, researching and reflective practice.

Before you can be offered a place on this course you will be required to complete a Disclosure and Barring Service clearance (previously known as CRB), and pay the appropriate fee. This is to ensure that a check can be made on your suitability for working with children and/or vulnerable adults.