Embark on a transformative journey that delves into the complexities of child development and family dynamics. This comprehensive course is meticulously designed to equip you with the essential skills and knowledge for a rewarding career in child and family support. Gain a deep understanding of the key principles and practices involved in supporting children and families. This course covers essential topics such as child development, safeguarding, family dynamics, and multi-agency collaboration. Combining academic study with practical experience, it provides a well-rounded foundation for working in education, social services, or community-focused roles.
You'll explore current challenges and research in the field, developing critical skills in communication, problem-solving, and reflective practice. With a focus on real-world applications, this course is ideal for those who aspire to make a meaningful difference in the lives of children and families, preparing you for a variety of rewarding career paths in this vital sector.
You will need to hold a level 4 qualification equivalent to 120 credits in a relevant subject. GCSE English at C/4 or above. GCSE Maths at C/4 or above is preferred but not required. Nonstandard entry will be considered on an individual basis. You will be required to attend an interview and have an Enhanced DBS.
*This course is suject to successful interveiw*
| Study level | Cost | Additional fees |
|---|---|---|
| HE | Please enquire | Course Fee: £6,355. *Please note that all fees are subject to change and will be confirmed upon enrolment. Further information about financial support can be found on our website. Additional costs relate to stationery and travel costs. In addition, students may wish to purchase key texts. It is advised that students obtain a copy of Cite Them Right (12th edition) which can be found at a low cost on Amazon. Students will be required to undertake a Disclosure Barring Service (DBS) check prior to engaging in counselling practice. The majority of counselling agencies process DBS applications and waive fees on a student's behalf, however, there is a minority of agencies/placement hosts that require students to fund this independently at a cost of £44 (subject to change). |
Learning and Teaching:
The programme uses a blended learning approach, combining face-to-face sessions with online and practical work where appropriate. The learning and teaching methods typically used by tutors include lectures, seminars, guest speakers, workshops and tutorials.
A significant amount of personal study time is expected to be undertaken by the student, comprising of background reading, assignment work, preparation for seminars and practical case studies. A social learning community including a peer support programme will further enhance this.
Summative and Formative Assessment:
Assessment tasks are linked to the learning outcomes of each module and are normally completed at the end of the module.
Assessment typically consists of practical and theoretical work. Assessments can include: a portfolio, oral presentation, written work and project work.
You will have formative assessment to help you learn and develop your knowledge and skills and summative assessment on which you are graded.
Continuous assessment is utilised on the programme. Formative feedback is an ongoing process and is delivered via tutorials, group discussion and peer input.
GCSEs at grade 4/C or above in Maths and English, or equivalent, are required for this course.
A placement is required consisting of a minimum of 70 hours across the year, although a minimum of one day per week is advised to maximise learning opportunities and professional development.
As a student on this Programme, there are a range of opportunities to link with industry such as guest speakers and field visits and activities.
To enable students to complete a full qualification in one year - which would usually take two years - extended academic years are applied. This results in the programme running for 38 weeks, from the first week in September through to mid-July.
Sessions run from 5pm-9pm one evening per week.
Session delivery will take place weekly on a Tuesday evening with additional and more flexible sessions offered throughout the year to enable you to strengthen your skills, develop as a scholar, and to seek additional feedback. The additional sessions will be offered on a face-to-face or remote basis and the frequency will be determined by the needs needs and preferences of students, with a strong emphasis on maximising your potential to succeed and progress.
In addition to the weekly session, students are expected to work independently for up to eight hours per week to maximise learning and progression.
The aims of this course are to:
- Provide a supportive and responsive learning environment that will enable students with different experiences to develop a flexible and transferable skill set
- Engage students with a variety of learning experiences and build on their skills and knowledge at each of the three levels of the programme, in order to facilitate the development of a critical understanding of children’s social care settings
- Develop the skills, knowledge and understanding required to work in integrated practice settings across children’s social care settings
- Enable students to confidently engage with and support the development of children, young people, families and communities
- Plan, deliver and evaluate projects and interventions that support social action and social justice
- Understand their place within the local, national and global children’s workforce and social care settings
- Engage students in traditional and contemporary debates around children’s social care settings, with an emphasis on developing analytical skills that enable robust evidenced based theoretical challenge
Prepare students for Level 6 study in an allied field; or for employment.
Modules include:
- Researching and Evaluating Practice
- Equality, Diversity, Inclusion and Anti-oppressive practice through
- The Internet, Media & Society
- Crime and Conflict
- Identity, Personality and Social Justice
- Innovative Approaches to Working with Children and Families
You will receive a timetable to inform you of the schedule at least one week prior to induction
After completing this course, students can progress to our Level 6 BA (Hons) in Working with Children and Families, further advancing their expertise and career prospects. This pathway opens doors to a wide range of roles in education, social care, family support, and community development. Graduates are well-equipped to pursue careers as family support workers, safeguarding officers, or early intervention specialists, making a meaningful impact in the lives of children and families. With a strong foundation in practical skills and theoretical knowledge, students can also explore opportunities for specialised postgraduate study in related fields.
Several of our Higher Education courses are in partnership with the University of Cumbria as a validating partner.
Find their website here.
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