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Studying Education Studies at University Centre Leeds (Keighley College) gives you a supportive, hands-on learning experience that builds your confidence and prepares you for a variety of careers in education. You’ll learn through interactive sessions, practical workshops, group projects, and personalised tutorials - all designed to help you grow at your own pace.

• Overview

  At Level 4, you’ll develop a strong foundation in educational theory and practice. You’ll explore safeguarding, behaviour management, inclusive teaching, and how technology is shaping modern classrooms.

  At Level 5, you’ll take your learning to the next level. You’ll build your skills in STEAM and English facilitation, tackle current issues in education, and strengthen your teamwork and research skills. The Future-Focused Learning module prepares you to adapt and thrive in a changing sector.

  You’ll also have opportunities to connect with local schools and community partners through projects, workshops, and guest speakers - giving you real insight into professional practice and helping you find your path in education.

• Entry Requirements

  Typical offer:

  UCAS Tariff Points: 48 UCAS tariff points from two A-levels (or equivalent L3 qualifications) 

  International qualifications: International qualifications will be assessed against these criteria and relevant experience. 

  IELTS: IELTS 6.0 with no less than 5.5 in any component.  

  Mature applicants: University Centre Leeds welcomes applications from mature* applicants who may not have met the academic criteria, but who can demonstrate a wealth of experience in their chosen field. Candidates in this category and otherwise are likely to be interviewed to assess their suitability for the course and may be asked to provide a portfolio of evidence to support their application.  

  *21 years and over at the start of the course  

  RPL claims: The course structure actively supports claims for Recognition of Prior Certified Learning (RPCL) or Recognition of Prior Experiential Learning (RPEL).  

  GCSE English (Desirable but not essential): English Language grade 4 or above. Key Skills Level 2, Functional Skills Level 2 and the Certificate in Adult Literacy are accepted in place of GCSEs.  

  GCSE Maths (Desirable but not essential): Maths grade 4 or above. Key Skills Level 2, Functional Skills Level 2 and the Certificate in Adult Numeracy are accepted in place of GCSEs.  

  GCSEs: If you wish to work in primary education, it is advised that you have GCSE Maths, English Language and Science at grade 4 or above. 

  NVQ Level 3: Pass grade 

  Work experience: Whilst placements are not required, it is advised that students seek relevant work experience. 

  DBS checks: Student s will also be required to complete the Disclosure and Barring Service process (DBS) during the course in order to facilitate work experience opportunities. 

  Interviews: An interview may be required when candidates do not fully meet the entry requirements. 

  References: An appropriate reference is required. 

• Assessment Types

  The Education Studies Foundation Degree uses a progressive assessment strategy across Levels 4 and 5 to develop both academic and professional skills for roles in education or progression to teaching qualifications. Level 4 focuses on building foundational knowledge, academic confidence, and core professional skills through reflective writing, structured analysis, and practical tasks, while Level 5 emphasises application, critical evaluation, and independent inquiry, supported by tutorials in academic writing, referencing, and study skills.  

  A diverse range of assessments - including portfolios, case studies, work-based projects, presentations, research tasks, and peer-collaborative activities—ensures students can apply theory to real-world contexts, engage critically with evidence, and communicate effectively.  

  Throughout, reflective and inclusive practices foster professional growth, preparing students to become confident, capable practitioners ready for Level 6 study or employment in the education sector. 

• Units/Modules

  The modules listed below are for the academic year 2025/26 and represent the course modules at this time. Modules and module details (including, but not limited to, location and time) are subject to change over time.

  Modules may include:

  Level 4 (Year 1) 

  Theory in Practice (20 credits)

  provides students with hands-on experience in lesson planning, delivery, and evaluation. This module focuses on the development of core teaching skills, such as structuring lessons, differentiating instruction, and engaging learners. 

  Building Positive Learning Environments (20 credits)

  equips students with practical skills in behaviour management, emotional regulation, and safeguarding practices. The module enables students to understand and apply national policies related to student well-being, helping them create safe, inclusive learning environments.  
   
  Inclusive Practice (20 credits)

  focuses on identifying and addressing barriers to learning, teaching students how to adapt their practice to meet the needs of all learners, including those with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND). This module is essential for preparing students to work in diverse educational settings, ensuring they support every learner’s success.

  Communication, Language, and Literacy (20 credits) 

  enhances students’ ability to support language and literacy development, with a particular emphasis on early years and primary education. This module aligns with national priorities and equips students with valuable skills for supporting students’ language development in school settings.

  Supporting Technology Enhanced Learning (20 credits) 

  This module gives learners the chance to explore the latest educational tech, from AI to creative digital apps - and discover how these tools can boost inclusion, support wellbeing, and keep learners safe across all education settings. students will pick a tech tool relevant to their own practice, dig into its benefits and challenges, and present their findings in a clear, research-informed portfolio.

  Concepts of Supporting Learning (20 credits) 
  This module gives students a chance to dive into big ideas about teaching—exploring key pedagogical theories, education policy, and what all of this looks like in real-life practice. They’ll look at both classic and modern teaching models and figure out how these approaches work across different classrooms and with diverse groups of learners. 

  Level 5 (Year 2) 

  Contemporary Education Agenda (20 credits)  

  introduces students to recent educational developments, including policy reforms and the implications of the Ofsted framework. Students critically evaluate current issues, ensuring they are up to date with national and sector-wide priorities. 

  Facilitating STEM (20 credits)

  focuses on the design and delivery of STEM learning experiences, preparing students to address educational gaps in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics—skills in high demand in schools and other educational institutions.

  Future-Focused Learning (20 credits)

  encourages students to explore innovative teaching methods, including digital technologies and learner-centred approaches. This module ensures students are prepared to meet future challenges in education, fostering adaptability and forward-thinking practices.  

  Collaborative Partnership (20 credits) 

  This module explores the many collaborative partnerships that shape the education sector, showing how teamwork strengthens teaching and learning. Students will examine how collaboration influences professional practice and how policy guides effective joint working. 

  Facilitating English (20 credits) 

  This module explores the pivotal role of English in the National Curriculum, examining how policy, reform, and social expectations shape curriculum design, assessment, and everyday classroom practice. Through hands-on activities and practical strategies, learners develop the skills and confidence to support high-quality English teaching, enhance literacy, and engage in current debates surrounding the subject.

  Work-based Project (20 credits) 

  This module guides learners in designing and conducting a research project to enhance educational practice and promote learning. Students develop skills in applying evidence-based strategies, critically investigating educational challenges, and presenting their findings with a strong understanding of ethics and academic integrity. 

  Throughout the programme, students develop key professional skills, including effective communication, collaboration, problem-solving, planning, and reflection. These competencies are nurtured through collaborative tasks, group projects, seminars, and practical assessments, ensuring students graduate with a well-rounded skill set. 

• Careers/Progression

  We know you may not have decided on your future yet, and the Foundation Degree in Education Studies is designed to prepare you for a wide range of roles in education — from teaching to support, policy, and community work. Our team has experience across the sector and can help you find your path. 

  Possible careers include: 

  • Classroom Assistant / Higher Level Teaching Assistant (HLTA) 
  • Behaviour Support Practitioner / Learning Mentor 
  • Early Years Educator / Special Needs Support Assistant 
  • Family or Community Support Worker 
  • Youth Worker / Pastoral or Inclusion Support Officer 
  • Educational Consultancy or Policy Assistant 

  You can also progress to a Level 6 Top-Up Degree at University Centre Leeds, including Children and Young People's Care and Education - BA (Hons) (Top-up) giving you a full honours degree and opening doors to specialist or senior roles within education. 

How to apply: Courses starting Autumn 2026

If you are applying for 2026 entry, you will need to apply through UCAS.

This is a University Centre Leeds course which is a part of and validated by Luminate Education Group.