LOSWEC & NESWEC collaboration on a new pathway for the new academic year
In consultation with Steiner Waldorf Schools Fellowship (SWSF) and responding to needs in the Steiner Waldorf schools and settings, we are delighted to announce that we are opening a new pathway to run alongside our current Ofqual-regulated Level 4 programme.
Requirements
The new two-year pathway will be for those who already have a recognised full and relevant Level 3, (EYE), or higher, qualification in early years education. For those living and working outside England, an appropriate early childhood qualification accepted locally would be considered. In addition, there will be an option for students enrolling on the one-year EYTS programme at Sheffield Hallam University to enrol on this new pathway concurrently with their university programme.
Aim and Content
The aim of the new pathway is to provide those with existing early childhood experience and qualifications, with an opportunity to gain a thorough understanding of the Steiner Waldorf approach. This will include an understanding of the human being and child development based on the indications of Rudolf Steiner, and of how Steiner Waldorf education has developed over the past one hundred years and is still developing to meet today’s challenges and opportunities. There will be a wealth of artistic and practical experiences equipping students for the day-to-day work in Steiner Waldorf settings, or to bring these experiences into settings sympathetic to Steiner-inspired practice. Our teams of experienced core and guest tutors will accompany and support students on this exciting journey.
Enrolment and Requirements
Students enrolling on the new pathway will join all the sessions of our current two-year accredited courses, without the workload of written assignments which the current qualification requires. There will be a requirement for placement experience in the Steiner early childhood setting, as with our existing pathway. Students will show their engagement in the course through such elements as a study journal, exercises in observing and reflecting on children, artistic and handwork tasks, presentations, and discussions. This new pathway will be a practical option for those working full-time in an early childhood setting.
Fees & Recognition
The tuition fees will be the same as for the existing route. In addition, we are in the process of gaining a Quality Mark from Crossfields Institute for the new pathway. Crossfields Institute are the awarding body for our current Ofqual regulated qualifications and we are pleased that they will support us in maintaining high standards for our new pathway. Upon completion of the two year programme a certificate will be awarded which states that the Quality Mark is recognised by the International Association of Steiner Waldorf Early Childhood (IASWECE).
Further Pathways
Students from both pathways, the current Level 4 accredited route and the new Quality Mark route, will be eligible to progress to our one-year placement-based Level 5 programme for a Diploma in Steiner Waldorf Early Childhood Studies: Leadership and Management.
Information on our new pathway is being included on our course websites alongside full details of how to enrol. We are looking forward to hearing from potential students.