Childhood, Education and Society

BA (Hons) Childhood, Education and Society is an innovative interdisciplinary degree that brings together early childhood studies, education and sociology to explore how children and young people develop, learn and experience the world around them. It is the first course of its kind in Wales to combine these fields in a single programme, offering a broad yet critically informed understanding of childhood within contemporary society.

You will examine how educational systems, families, communities and wider social structures influence children’s lives and life chances. Drawing on theory, research and professional practice, the course enables you to explore issues such as inclusion, social justice, children’s rights, wellbeing, multilingualism and sustainability. You will consider how policy and practice shape educational experiences from the early years through to adulthood, and how practitioners can respond ethically and creatively to diverse needs.

Throughout the degree, you will develop a strong foundation in human development, safeguarding, inclusive practice and professional identity. As you progress, you will deepen your understanding of research, leadership and the role of technology and learning environments in supporting engagement and achievement. In your final year, you will undertake an independent research project, allowing you to investigate an area of personal and professional interest in depth.

Learning is enriched through access to specialist resources and immersive learning spaces, including virtual reality technology, enabling you to explore innovative approaches to teaching and learning. You will also have the opportunity to undertake a relevant placement and may choose to study abroad for a semester through international mobility.

Graduates are well prepared for careers in education, early years settings, community and youth work, local government, social care and the voluntary sector. The degree also provides a strong foundation for postgraduate study, including teacher training, social work and further research.

If the study of additional learning needs interests you in particular, take a look at our BA (Hons) Childhood, Education and Society: Additional Learning Needs pathway.

Modules

You will explore human development, wellbeing and children’s rights, alongside the social and cultural factors that influence learning and opportunity. The course develops your understanding of inclusive education, safeguarding and ethical practice, equipping you to work confidently with diverse children, families and communities.

As you progress, you will engage with research methods, leadership and teamwork, and examine how learning environments and digital technologies can enhance participation and achievement. You will critically analyse contemporary issues such as social justice, sustainability, multilingualism and neurodivergence.

Through placement experience and your independent research project, you will apply theory to practice, strengthen your professional identity and develop the skills needed for employment or further study. In the first year, you will explore the foundations of human development and wellbeing, children’s rights, and inclusive learning strategies. You will also develop key academic and professional skills, engage with creative pedagogies, and understand safeguarding principles and additional learning needs. These modules prepare you for reflective, inclusive, and ethical practice in early years and educational settings.

Thriving through the Years: Human Development and Wellbeing (20 credits)
Who am I? Exploring Professional Identity (20 credits)
Voice, Choice and Rights: Empowering Young People (20 credits)
Ways of Learning: Creative Pedagogies (20 credits)
Connect and Protect: Building Safer Networks (20 credits)
Learning for All: An Introduction to ALN (20 credits)

In your second year, you will deepen your understanding of inclusive education, leadership, and the role of environments and technologies in learning. You will explore research methods, social justice, and collaborative practices, preparing you to lead and innovate in diverse educational settings.

Cracking the Code: Understanding Research Methods (20 credits)
Design for Learning (20 credits)
Empowering Others: Leadership and Teamwork (20 credits)
Future Ready: Exploring Technologies (20 credits)
Voices for Change: Equity & Social Justice (20 credits)

In your final year, you will critically engage with global and contemporary issues in education, explore leadership in inclusive settings, and deepen your understanding of multilingualism, sustainability, and neurodivergence. You will also undertake an independent research project, preparing you for professional practice and advocacy in diverse educational contexts.

Beyond Words: Multilingualism and Cultural Belonging (20 credits)
Future Builders: Developing Sustainable Practice and Learning (20 credits)
Global Classrooms: Education for Social Change (20 credits)
Navigating the Now: Contemporary Issues and Social Change (20 credits)
Independent Project for Childhood, Education and Society (20 credits)

https://www.uwtsd.ac.uk/programme-courses/undergraduate/teaching-education-and-pgce/childhood-education-and-society-full-1