This popular degree is ideal for those interested in working with children and young people in informal and formal education settings. The course:

• has a long history of providing a well-respected, successful and alternative pathway into mainstream primary teaching via a Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE – Primary Education) or Post-compulsory qualification (PcET – Adult and Further Education)
• keeps options open for a range of other career opportunities that involve work with children and young people
• is predominantly geared towards working with children between the ages of 3-13 years of age
• combines academic study and work experience
• draws upon theoretical perspectives from a wide range of disciplines including education, sociology, psychology, philosophy, health and social welfare/justice
• considers educational policies, processes and perspectives relating to the statutory requirements of early years’ curricula and Key Stage 2 of the National Curriculum in both England and Wales
• covers factors which impact on the wellbeing and learning dispositions of children and young people

Based on a combination of academic study and work experience, the course is designed to build upon your knowledge, skills and experience of work within educational settings.

YEAR 1 (LEVEL 4)

Year 1 offers students a broad introduction to some of the main disciplines which underpin education and childhood studies. The key philosophy is that in order for children to learn, practitioners must understand the developmental stages and needs of children and young people.

MODULES: 

• Development of Children and Young People
• Protecting Children and Young People
• Development of Literacy and Numeracy
• Introduction to ALN/SEN
• Play
• Academic Development and Reflective Practice

YEAR 2 (LEVEL 5)

Year 2 builds upon the modules studied at level 4, considering different subjects of the national curriculum, as well as examining more closely some of the social and emotional factors that impinge on children and young people’s learning.

MODULES: 

• Inclusion and Diversity
• Skills for the Workplace
• Child and Adolescent Health and Well-Being
• Curriculum (3-7 years)
• Science, Technology and Creative Thinking
• Research Methods

YEAR 3 (LEVEL 6)

Year 3 builds upon prior learning, requires more independent study and involves students selecting a childhood/education topic of their choice to undertake a small-scale research project within a child/education setting.

MODULES: 

• Promoting Positive Behaviour
• Teaching and Learning Techniques
• Curriculum (7-14 years)
• Special Educational Needs
• Research Article