Learning and Teaching (SEND and Inclusive Provision) Foundation Degree in Arts - FdA

Inclusive education can transform lives. By understanding and responding to diverse learning needs, education professionals can help children and young people overcome barriers, develop confidence and achieve their full potential.

The Foundation Degree in Learning and Teaching (SEND and Inclusive Provision) is designed for professionals working in specialist SEND and inclusive educational settings who want to strengthen their knowledge, skills and professional expertise. The course combines workplace experience with academic study to help you develop a deeper understanding of inclusive practice, child development and educational support.

A key strength of the programme is its specialist focus on supporting learners with a wide range of needs. You'll explore contemporary approaches to inclusion and examine topics including neurodiversity, autism, social, emotional and mental health, cognition and learning needs, as well as sensory and physical needs. This will help you better understand how educational environments can be adapted to support diverse learners and promote meaningful participation in learning.

Throughout the course, you'll be encouraged to reflect on your professional practice and analyse your work through educational theory, research and evidence-informed approaches. By linking academic learning with workplace experience, you'll develop greater confidence in supporting children and young people within specialist and inclusive settings.

You'll learn from specialists in the fields of special educational needs, neurodiversity and inclusion, whose research and professional experience help bring current practice and contemporary issues into the classroom.

Designed for working professionals, the programme supports career development while recognising the knowledge and experience you already bring to your role. Successful completion can support progression to honours-level study, teacher training routes and a range of specialist roles linked to SEND, inclusion and educational support.

By the end of the course, you'll have developed a deeper understanding of inclusive education and strengthened your ability to support learners with additional needs, helping to create educational environments in which every child can thrive.

By studying at the University of Northampton, you can be sure that:

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