Foundation degrees are available in a wide range of subjects, and some are specifically designed for school support staff.

A foundation degree is a level 5 qualification on the higher education qualifications framework. You can learn more about qualifications levels on the TDA website.

Foundation degrees can be topped up to a full honours degree or may lead to another professional qualification. Some may provide a suitable basis for progression to the Registered Teacher Programme (RTP), which lets you complete your degree and qualify as a teacher at the same time.

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

TDA foundation degree framework

The TDA has produced guidance for universities and their partners on how to design and deliver foundation degrees that meet the changing needs of people who work in schools.

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.