Childhood, Youth and Families in Practice

Our Foundation Degree Childhood, Youth and Families is a dynamic and comprehensive program that blends practical experience with campus-based learning sessions, carefully designed to accommodate your existing work or volunteer commitments. With just one weekly on-campus session, you can seamlessly continue your career journey while enhancing your skills and knowledge over a two-year period. It's important to note that this Foundation degree serves as the first two years of a full-time degree program, providing you with a solid foundation for your educational aspirations.

During the first year of the programme, you will embark on a transformative journey into higher education. You'll gain a deep understanding of learning principles and explore the intricate link between theory and practice in meeting the unique needs of children. Our programme empowers you to analyse your role within the early years sector, facilitating your professional growth and development. Additionally, you will delve into modules covering child development and social interactions, enriching your practical knowledge and skills.

As you progress into the second year, you will delve deeper into essential topics. Modules surrounding equality, diversity and anti-oppressive practice will equip you with the tools to create inclusive learning environments and challenge social injustice. You will also focus on developing and supporting children, young people and families in a range of different contexts whilst honing your reflective skills. Moreover, you will have the invaluable opportunity to collaborate with fellow students from diverse backgrounds and related programmes. This collaboration will broaden your perspectives, enhancing your employability and enriching your understanding of working with children, young people and families.

Many of our students on this programme are employed as Teaching Assistants working in a range of contemporary contexts, Early Help Workers, Youth Justice Officers and Youth Workers to name a few. They play a pivotal role in facilitating informal learning opportunities for children, young people and families across the region. The programme is a stepping stone for the BA (Hons) Childhood, Youth and Families in practice Top-Up route.