Working with Children, Young People and Families

Develop your knowledge and understanding of the lives and experiences of children, young people and their families through academic study and work-based learning with our degree. Driven by values of inclusion, empowerment and social justice, this exciting degree supports your academic and professional development to enhance your skills and career prospects so that you can make a positive impact. You will explore a range of topics and key issues, including poverty, mental health, youth offending, safeguarding and anti-discriminatory practice.

This course produces graduates who can address gaps in provision and improve the services available to children, young people, their families and the wider community. Our staff are experienced in the fields of childhood and youth studies, health, law, therapy, education, business and social care.

• You will have a placement in every year of study; each with a different focus so you can explore a range of settings and possible career aspirations. This is fully supported by university tutors and mentors in placement settings.

• Regular opportunities to get involved with Special Interest Groups, visiting researchers and All Party Parliamentary groups

• Guaranteed interview for PGCE Primary Education (5-11) (QTS) on completion (T&C’s apply)

UON’s Education subject area was ranked 14th based on overall student positivity out of all universities in England, according to the latest 2025 National Student Survey (NSS)^

The University of Northampton is a top 20 institution for Childhood and Youth Studies in the Complete University Guide league tables for 2025

21st for Satisfied with Teaching for Education –The Guardian University Guide 2025 (Education League Table)

Why choose the University of Northampton?

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.

The Northampton Employment Promise

We’re confident you’ll graduate ready to launch your career. If you’re not in employment within six months, you’ll receive dedicated support from a Careers Development Consultant. If you’re still seeking opportunities after that, we’ll offer you a paid internship.

✱ 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

^Calculations are based on Office for Students (OfS) data from the average positivity score across all NSS questions for this subject area across all modes and levels at UK Universities

Course Modules

STAGE 1

• Advocacy and Activism: Children and Young People's Rights (Compulsory)

• Promoting Children and Young People’s Emotional Wellbeing (Compulsory)

• Introduction to Childhood, Youth and Families (Compulsory)

• Work Based Learning with Children, Young People and Families (Compulsory)

• Fit and Healthy Childhoods: Development, Health and Learning (Compulsory)

• Working Together to support Children, Young People and Families (Compulsory)

STAGE 2

• Special Educational Needs and Inclusion (Compulsory)

• Research Methods (Children, Young People and Families) (Compulsory)

• Working with Families

• Effective Intervention, Safeguarding and Integrated Working in Children and Young People's Services (Compulsory)

• Diversity and Inclusion in Work Based Learning with Children, Young People and Families (Compulsory)

• Diversity and Pluralism (Compulsory)

STAGE 3

• Children and Young People Dissertation (Compulsory)

• Innovation Leadership and Management in Work Based Learning with Children, Young People and Families (Compulsory)

• Places and Spaces: Geographies of Childhood and Youth (Compulsory)

• Empowering and Therapeutic Approaches to Working with Children, Young People and Families (Compulsory)

• Social Justice and Equity (Compulsory)

Module information is quoted for 2026 entry. Please note that modules run subject to student numbers and staff availability, any changes will be communicated to applicants accordingly.

There are no exams on this degree. Instead, you will be assessed through a range of methods including essays, reports, case studies, presentations, practical projects and reflective tasks.