The foundation degree in early years aims to provide students with the appropriate knowledge and understanding necessary for them to work and demonstrate competence at senior practitioner level across a range of early years care and education settings; the course is delivered using a variety of methods: formal lessons; lectures; group discussion; seminars; learning clubs; research; on-line activities; students need a practical placement of at least two days a week (with under eight year olds) and a mentor in this setting (this can be a voluntary placement).