Foundation degrees are available in a wide range of subjects, and some may provide a suitable basis for the Registered Teacher Programme (RTP) that allows suitably employed candidates to complete their degree and qualify as a teacher at the same time.  The RTP pages of the TDA website provide more information on the entry requirements. 

A foundation degree is a level 5 qualification in the framework for higher education qualifications (FHEQ).  It is a stand-alone qualification, but provides opportunities for progression to appropriate honours degrees. 

Some foundation degrees are designed for those working with children or young people, either in schools or other settings. 

The foundation degree framework

The TDA has published a guidance document, called a ‘foundation degree framework’, to help higher education institutions design and deliver foundation degrees that meet the emerging needs of the school workforce.  You may find it helpful to read this guidance if you are working in partnership with a university or college to develop a foundation degree or are considering their potential to provide development opportunities for school support staff.

Download the foundation degree framework (806 KB)

The TDA will shortly be consulting on a proposed new approval procedure for putting foundation degrees and other higher education qualifications for school staff on the integrated qualifications framework (IQF) for the children’s workforce. The proposals will be published on this website. If you would like to join a focus group to discuss these proposals or receive other information about the consultation, please send an e-mail to tdafdf@tda.gov.uk with your name, position, work address and e-mail address.

Both the Universities and Colleges Admissions Service (UCAS) and the Foundation Degree Forward websites list providers and their foundation degree subjects.