Childhood Development (Including Foundation Year)

Understand how children and young people learn, grow and experience challenges across different contexts. This hands-on degree combines psychology, therapeutic approaches and real-world experience in a supportive, research-focused environment that prepares you to make a meaningful difference.

You’ll explore key psychological theories of childhood and adolescence, focusing on both typical and atypical development, as well as mental health and wellbeing. The course examines children and young people within their wider contexts, including the influence of adversity, relationships, and societal change. Through hands-on learning in our onsite Early Intervention Service, immersive simulation suites, and state-of-the-art psychology labs, this research-led course prepares you to address the complex challenges facing children and young people today. You’ll develop a compassionate, reflective, and trauma-informed approach to supporting children, families, and communities.

This course is ideal if you know you want to work with children but are still figuring out which specialised route you want to take.

You’ll be assessed in different ways, including short tasks, coursework, presentations, and group work. Early assessments are designed to support your learning and help you understand what is expected at university. Most assessments are coursework-based and help you develop key skills such as research, academic writing, teamwork, and communication. You’ll also reflect on your progress and use university systems and digital tools. Clear, timely feedback will help you understand how to improve and support your next steps.