Foundation degree in Steiner Waldorf early childhood education
This new programme has completed its accreditation process of the University of Plymouth, and has been running since September 2004.
The FdA in Steiner Waldorf Early Childhood, with its flexible delivery systems, offers opportunities for Early Years Practitioners, teaching assistants, parents and those wishing to specialise in early childhood to achieve a professional qualification. The programme is designed to provide students with a deepened understanding of early childhood through a combination of reflective study, practise in the arts and work-based learning.
The monthly training sessions are being held over Friday evenings and all day Saturday, as a combination of public workshops, intensive study and practical elements. There will be occasional residential weeks during the year run during vacation periods, and some elements of distance learning. Weekend sessions are currently being taught at the York Steiner School with residentials taking place at Elmfield Rudolf Steiner School in Stourbridge.
The course will take place over two years, but the modules can be completed within a five year period should it be difficult to attend all the sessions required.
The initial stage of this programme will run in Northern England/Midlands. This flexible programme, however, could be held in any area of the country should there be enough interest. Interest has been expressed in running further stages in South West England and East Sussex. The Foundation Degree has been developed in collaboration between the University of Plymouth and the Steiner Waldorf schools Fellowship of Great Britain so any further developments will be part of a national strategy regarding Steiner Waldorf teacher education.
For students who have previous experience of Steiner Early Childhood Education it would be possible to apply for previous learning and experience to be accredited, where relevant.
Progression routes include the possibility of continuing to complete a BA (Hons.) in one further year.
The programme will include:
Philosophy, anthroposophy and educational psychology in Steiner Waldorf early years education and childcare.
Child development, curriculum, teaching method and culture
Contemporary early years issues, professional practise and comparative studies.
Practical and theoretical work, and independent research relevant to reflective practise.
The arts for self development, and in practise
Work-based learning, teaching and observation
Independent research project.
It would be helpful to know in which parts of the country there is a need for a programme of this sort, so we would be grateful if you would contact the address below for a preliminary application form to register your interest.
education.enq@plymouth.ac.uk
