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Please note that this is technical preview and therefore the data is not factual. This will change when the new UNISTATS website is launched.

Key Information Set

Foundation Degree in Education (Teaching Assistants) validated by Staffordshire University

Teaching and Learning

On the Foundation Degree in Education programme there is considerable emphasis on work based learning (students must be in a school placement either voluntary or paid for at least one and a half days a week) Broad coverage of the indicative content is usually achieved through interactive lessons and seminars which include individual and group activities, discussions and case study analysis. All lessons are followed with practical tutorial sessions.

The tutorials and exercises encourage independent study outside the classroom. Therefore, students are encouraged to discuss aspects of the module through email and discussion forums that form part of our VLE. These forums allow for peer to peer discussions as well as discussions with the module tutors. Students are encouraged to seek re-enforcement of academic learning through practical experience in their own workplace.

Work based learning includes the students working through tutorial exercises and tasks with the guidance of a work-based Mentor. The year 3 students carry out a piece of educational research in their school setting which is supported by active teaching sessions at college. Students comment that they find the research enjoyable and rewarding, the data often being used by the school itself as a basis for further development.

There is also an on-going  portfolio to complete over the three years of study. This contains many work based related activities which highlights their achievements  in school.

Assessment

Assessment will be accomplished throughout the Foundation Degree here at Leek College using the following variety of methods as and when appropriate:

• Individual coursework assignments ( normally approximately 3000 words)
• Presentations
• Written reports
• One timed essay exam in year 3
• One Research Project in year 3 (which students really enjoy)
• A work based portfolio continually developed throughout course including work based tasks, reflection, evaluation of practice  and feedback from observations and mentor reports

Assessment and Standardisation

To ensure consistency and accuracy, sample assessments are second marked by the university.
Marking (or standardisation meetings)  meetings are held at Staffordshire University to ensure standardisation across the various delivery sites etc.

To ensure fairness, some assignments are marked anonymously, and that you are asked to fold and stick down the right hand flap of the assignment before handing in your work. This is an important tool in helping to safeguard the integrity of the assessment process.

At the end of each semester, all assessment work is sent to the university and checked by the module leaders. The University also employs External Examiners to provide a feedback report on the standard of the work they have seen.

An Assessment / Awards Board meets at the university  to determine your final grade on each module.

Employability

All of our students on the Foundation Degree in Education work as teaching assistants in educational settings. Some are paid and some are voluntary. The settings range from primary to high schools, special schools and colleges. Two present students also work at outdoor education centres.

Some move onto do the BA Hons in Education programme and some have the opportunity and desire to carry on and gain a qualified teacher status.

Many teaching assistants started out as parent volunteer helpers in the child’s school and realised that this was the career path for them.

Some of the present students work in non educational jobs and wish
to change direction.

Working in schools is rewarding and enjoyable. Some students just want to work as teaching assistants while others may wish to develop their career further and become Higher Level Teaching Assistants or Special Educational Needs Co-ordinators. A few want to go onto to be teachers.

Working with young people in any setting is worthwhile and this course equips our students with the knowledge, understanding and motivation to be brilliant educators.

Accreditation

Accredited by Staffordshire University