BA (Hons) Childhood and Family Studies and Special Needs and Inclusion Studies

UCAS code: XL35

BA (Hons) Childhood and Family Studies and Special Needs and Inclusion Studies

When and where can I study this course?

Location Study mode Duration Start date Apply
Walsall Campus Part-Time 5/6 year(s) 17/09/2012 APPLY DIRECTLY
Walsall Campus Full-time 3 year(s) 17/09/2012 APPLY VIA UCAS
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Aims

The Childhood and Family Studies (CAFS) and Special Needs and Inclusion Studies (SNIS) degree will develop the skills and knowledge required for a range of careers working with children, their families and the services that support them, in both education and social contexts. Students will also be able to identify and understand the challenges faced when trying to adopt an inclusive approach to all aspects of life, and how they can meet and address these challenges in a positive way as members of a diverse global society.

The course is suitable for people new to this area or experienced staff searching for career development.

Work experience placements are an integral part of the course and can be negotiated in a variety of settings such as schools, nurseries, community care centres, hospitals, social services, libraries and other relevant settings.

Teaching and learning is designed to support digital literacy and students are encouraged to share knowledge and be enterprising with their ideas. An international perspective is taken to the degree and students will also have the opportunity to learn about how other countries support children and their families and develop inclusive practice.

Employability

  • You may go into teaching, lecturing or research in the field of Childhood and Family Studies or Special Needs and Inclusion Studies.
  • There are a range of options in community care, family support, play work, youth work, nursery management, inclusion management, advocacy posts and charities.
  • If you want to become a teacher you will need to undertake a Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE)
  • You could also choose to apply for a Master’s Degree in Social Work or gain further qualifications as a play therapist or youth counsellor.

Content

In Year 1, your study will explore how children and young people develop and consider issues around safeguarding and promoting well-being. You will also explore key themes related to inclusion.

During your second year you will look at families and communities in context and explore theoretical approaches to learning. You will also be challenged to think about the provision for disabled people in a variety of settings and begin to develop your research skills.

The final year will allow you to analyse how inequality can be tackled through inter-agency working and will widen your perspective on children’s rights. Additionally you will analyse social and critical issues affecting the lives of disabled people, as well as having an opportunity to study specific learning difficulties. You will also complete a research project on a topic of personal or professional interest.

At each level you will benefit from a work experience placement, giving you real-life experience in your chosen field.

Entry

2012 entry

Applicants must have GCSE English at grade C level or above (or equivalent)

AND

  • 200 UCAS points from ‘A’ levels or equivalent
  • BTEC National Diploma grade MMP, BTEC National Certificate DM
  • Access to HE Diploma full award (Pass of 60 credits - of which a minimum of 45 credits must be at level 3 including 18 at Merit or Distinction).

If you've got other qualifications or relevant experience please consult the UCAS tariff tables or contact us before applying.

International student language requirements and application guidance can be found at http://www.wlv.ac.uk/international/apply

Other Requirements

Students must have studied a minimum of two years post GCSE level. However, it is expected that some applicants will be mature students with work experience, who wish to further their career development. These applicants will be processed through standard procedures, which may involve an interview as part of the process.

Those who do not meet the entry requirements may be offered an alternative course.

Outcomes

As a graduate of this course you will be able to:

  • Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of the importance and challenges of inter-agency working in order to meet the needs of children, young people and families.
  • Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of the expected pattern of children’s development from birth and pedagogical approaches for working with children, young people and families.
  • Be aware of the underlying values and principles relevant to the ideologies of inclusion, and develop a personal stance which draws on your knowledge and understanding, including the diversity of learners and the complexities of the inclusion process.
  • Evaluate the societal and organisational structures and purposes of social systems, and the possible implications for all involved
  • Be aware of, analyse and make critical judgements about key concepts, theories and principles and be able to communicate these clearly using appropriate media and digital technologies.
  • Be able to reflect on your own value system and identify future learning and professional goals.

Why WLV?

  • This course involves work placements at every level of study.
  • You can choose which age group you wish to focus on depending on your personal interests and career aspirations.
  • This unique course offers both academic rigour and professional relevance.