Learning and Teaching Foundation Degree in Arts - FdA

This programme is specifically designed for those who have a role supporting teaching and learning in schools whether that be as a teaching assistant, unqualified teacher, cover supervisor, learning mentor, HLTA or learning support assistant. The Foundation Degree in Learning and Teaching is a recognised qualification for your role and will aid your professional development.

You will develop your understanding of children’s learning and build on your ability to support teachers in raising pupil achievement, as well as looking at some of the wider aspects of school provision. You will be encouraged to analyse your work in the context of best practice, relevant principles and research.

The course also provides support for developing and extending the skills, knowledge and understanding related to the Higher Level Teaching Assistant (HLTA) professional standards. By the end of this course you will be able to demonstrate excellent practice, underpinned by theoretical understanding. Our experienced and supportive tutors, alongside mentors in your workplace, will help you to excel.

Successful completion of this course gives you the opportunity to progress onto an honours degree and can provide a route to Qualified Teacher Status including through an employment-based scheme or similar.

* Employment-based course to fit with your schedule.

* Recognised qualification for support staff working with children, young people and adults

* Exemption from certain modules if you have relevant prior qualifications

* Highly experienced and supportive tutor team

* Progression to honours degrees and teacher training programmes, as well as other roles within education

UON’s Education subject area was ranked 14th based on overall student positivity out of all universities in England, according to the latest 2025 National Student Survey (NSS)^

21st for Satisfied with Teaching for Education –The Guardian University Guide 2025 (Education League Table)

Why choose the University of Northampton?

At the University of Northampton, you’ll benefit from a supportive, career-focused experience designed to help you succeed.

Personalised learning

Study in small groups led by expert academics, with dedicated one-to-one support. Our close-knit community ensures you receive individual guidance while being challenged to achieve your best.

Built for your future

Whatever your goals, we’ll help you get there. You’ll develop valuable skills, discover your strengths, and gain real-world experience - so you’re ready to stand out when applying for jobs or further study.

Guaranteed accommodation

We guarantee a room in our Halls of Residence for all new full-time first-year students who apply and accept their offer by June 2027\*.

Exceptional student benefits

You’ll receive a brand-new laptop at no additional cost\*\*, and all essential textbooks are available through our library - helping you save money throughout your studies.

A modern campus experience

Study at our student-led purpose-built Waterside Campus, designed to provide an inspiring and dynamic environment for learning and student life. Visit us at an Open Day to see it for yourself.

✱ Eligibility criteria apply. See northampton.ac.uk/student-life/accommodation/ for more information\
✱✱ Eligibility criteria and terms and conditions apply. See northampton.ac.uk/benefits for more information

^Calculations are based on Office for Students (OfS) data from the average positivity score across all NSS questions for this subject area across all modes and levels at UK Universities.