Professionals working with children, young people and families are increasingly required to have formal qualifications which recognise their knowledge and expertise in this area. This course is one of a small number of programmes designed to equip you with an understanding of the social, economic, educational, cultural and political issues and barriers facing many children, and the practice skills to enable children and families to overcome them.
Applicants must be employed in a children and family centre setting and have the support of their employer before applying for the Foundation degree.
The courses look at the social policy and legislative backdrop in relation to children and families. You will study legislation relating to education, child protection and health. You will gain an understanding of the roles and responsibilities of agencies working with young children and families including children's centres, social services, schools, the police and the health services. Leading on from this you will gain a good grounding in the importance of multi-agency working and you will study and evaluate models of best practice in this area. An understanding of the importance of diversity is central to the course, and reflection on the impact of difference permeates every aspect of teaching and learning. Above all else the course is designed to impart practice skills in working with children, young people and families. You will be introduced to a range of practice skills including play therapy, task-centred work, family therapy, sculpting, role play and communication skills.
September 2009
Foundation degree (part-time, employment-based route): For applications through UCAS those aged under 21 on entry should have 120 points
Three year BA degree: 'C' grade GCSE English (or equivalent), 220 points composed of CCD grades at GCE 'A' level or equivalent (for example AVCEs, relevant BTEC qualifications) with at least 80 points having been gained from a subject studied at the level and volume of a GCE 'A' level.
Applicants must be employed in a children and family centre setting and have the support of their employer before applying for the Foundation degree.