The University will work closely with the practical work placements to assess competence. Students will be visited by a tutor who will give verbal and written feedback.

Summative Assessment
1. Successfully complete a portfolio which provides evidence of how the student is meeting the EYTS standards (Weighting 0%)

2. A reflective and analytical diary of events over the course of two work placements, relating theory to practice, comparing and contrasting differing organisational structures and ethos. Include a reflective commentary on the end of placement performance report (completed by the mentor in the setting). This will enable students to critically analyse their strengths and future challenges.
(Weighting 100%) (3,000 words) (LO, 1,2,3)

Students will be required to successfully complete both elements of assessment to pass this module.

This module involves placement in two early years settings. Students will work with two different age groups within the early years spectrum (0-2.11 years and 3-4.11 years) to extend their skills in linking theory to practice. The students will build upon their experiences in the level 4 module Personal, Professional and Academic Development. It will enable practitioners to establish evidence of practical skills and learning from work based activities. Students will explore their role within the two early years settings, reflecting upon their differences and similarities and relating these to their role as a professional and the implications for the children.

Students will engage in reflective analysis to enhance their own performance within Early Years settings in meeting the EYTS standards.

University teaching sessions
Tutorials
Placement School meetings with Mentor
University library
Materials and Links on PGCE Blackboard

General:


Ang,L 2014 The Early Years Curriculum; The UK context and beyond. Routledge

Briggs, M. and Hansen, A. (2012) Play-based learning in the primary school Sage

Desailly, J. (2012) Creativity in the primary classroom Sage

Macintyre, C. (2012) Enhancing learning through play 2nd ed, David Fulton

Fanthome, C., (2004) Work Placements - a Survival Guide for Students, London, Palgrave/ Macmillan.

Hobart, C. and Frankel,J., (2009), A Practical Guide to Child Care and Education Placements, Cheltenham, Nelson ThornesRawlings, A., (2008), Studying |Early Years: A guide to work based learning, Maidenhead OU Press

Oates, R. and Hey, C. (2014) The student practitioner in early childhood studies Routledge

Watts, A. (2013) Outdoor learning throughout the seasons David Fulton

The student will achieve the learning outcomes of the module mainly through remote learning in the work place setting. The student will need to identify a work place critical friend, and tutor support will be by e-mail, telephone and one hour placement visit at each setting.