BA (Hons) Childhood and Youth Studies Level 6
The BA (Hons) Childhood and Youth Studies course is a top-up to convert the FdA Education and Childhood, FdA Working with Children, Young People and Families, Diploma in Education and Training (DET), or similar Level 5 qualifications into a full Honours Degree. The course consolidates the skills and knowledge you have previously acquired, whilst further developing your understanding of working practice.
The course is multidisciplinary in nature and studies of the complexities of contemporary childhood, youth and family life. You will study children and young people’s development in an ecological context, drawing upon a range of influential factors such as psychology, education, welfare, sociology, politics and economics.
The programme has been designed to equip you with the knowledge base and capabilities to excel in your chosen profession or alternative graduate opportunities. This is achieved through module content that is specific to particular areas of practice, which is then interpreted and developed through collaborative seminar discussion.
You will analyse and critically evaluate the processes that shape childhood and young people’s lives, exploring topics that cover the changing nature of childhood, ethical principles in relation to working practice and young people’s rights.
Please note, this course does not provide students with an Early Years Workforce license to practice.
Course Details
- We will consider a variety of qualifications and relevant experience and each application is assessed on its own merit.
The taught modules cover a range of contemporary issues impacting on the lives of children and young people. The research dissertation module will enable you to undertake a piece of extended research on a topic of your choice within the field of education, social care and community support.
Full-time students
Children and young people who flourish (20 credits): Psychological exploration of the factors that enable children to thrive (e.g. positive self-worth, confidence, motivation and psychological wellbeing) and the things that might impact on that (e.g. adverse childhood experiences, poor relationships, mental health difficulties)
Representations of childhood and youth (20 credits): Considering how social, cultural, political, economic and historical factors have influenced children’s lives in the UK and around the world today.
Compassionate practitioners and leaders (20 credits): How you can be agents for change in children and young people’s lives. Exploring how practitioners and leaders use evidence to develop and implement positive change for the young people we support.
Contemporary issues in childhood and youth (20 credits): Exploring how contemporary issues (e.g. social justice movements such as Me Too, BLM, sustainability, LGBTQ+, crime, social media, poverty, Covid-19 and mental health etc.) impact children and young people’s lives.
Research Dissertation (40 credits): An extended research project throughout the year. With the support of your dissertation supervisor, you research a topic that is of interest to you, using a research design that you develop that meets the needs of the project and your approach.
Part-time students – Year 1
Children and young people who flourish (20 credits): Psychological exploration of the factors that enable children to thrive (e.g. positive self-worth, confidence, motivation and psychological wellbeing) and the things that might impact on that (e.g. adverse childhood experiences, poor relationships, mental health difficulties)
Compassionate practitioners and leaders (20 credits): How you can be agents for change in children and young people’s lives. Exploring how practitioners and leaders use evidence to develop and implement positive change for the young people we support.
Research Preparation (20-credits): An extended research project throughout your studies. With the support of your dissertation supervisor, you prepare to research a topic that is of interest to you by exploring current research and theory in the field and methods to undertake the research.
Part-time students – Year 2
Representations of childhood and youth (20 credits): Considering how social, cultural, political, economic and historical factors have influenced children’s lives in the UK and around the world today.
Contemporary issues in childhood and youth (20 credits): Exploring how contemporary issues (e.g. social justice movements such as Me Too, BLM, sustainability, LGBTQ+, crime, social media, poverty, Covid-19 and mental health etc.) impact children and young people’s lives.
Research Investigation (20-credits): Building on the preparation and planning you have undertaken in Year 1, with the continued support of your dissertation supervisor, this year you will carry out the research data collection and analysis and write up your findings and conclusions.
Please note this is not a JNC (Joint Negotiating Council) National Youth Agency accredited programme.
I have been really happy with the Level 4 Learning and Skills Mentor apprenticeship. The monthly lessons, led by Leigh, are well thought out and engaging. We receive excellent resources and have ample opportunities to practice our techniques during the lessons. Allowing for group collaboration and sharing of experiences. The feedback and one-on-one sessions I have received are informative, knowledgeable, and helpful, enabling me to develop my skills further. Since starting this apprenticeship, I have gained valuable knowledge in questioning and listening techniques, which I have already begun to apply in my role as an Assessor Coach. Throughout the program, I have felt fully supported. I cannot recommend this course enough for anyone either new to mentoring or looking to develop their communication and support skills. This apprenticeship has provided me with the tools and confidence needed to excel in mentoring and support roles, making a real difference in my professional capabilities.Jenny Goodman
