CHILDHOOD STUDIES (TOP UP) at Canterbury Christ Church University

This exciting area of study, designed for those with a relevant foundation degree, considers the influences that shape children’s development and learning, their personalities, and the critical periods that will shape their journeys to adulthood. We have designed this course for those working with children and young people aged 0-19 years in settings such as schools, nurseries, childcare, foster care, child minders, youth groups, cadets, or library services.

You will cover:

• research methods;
• curriculum learning theory;
• contemporary issues relating to children and young people.

For those on the SEN pathway in addition to the above:

• different aspects of special education needs and inclusion.

Why Childhood Studies?

This course is aimed at those with 240 credits who have completed a Foundation Degree in Childhood Studies (or equivalent) and who wish to gain a full BA (Hons) degree. You will either wish to enter teaching or are already working in a childcare setting or with young people.

The course will enable you to 'earn as you learn' so that you can use your work to inform your debate, discussion and critical reflection at University.

Gaining an undergraduate work-based qualification whilst working in a professional role, may enhance your employment prospects and enable you to access further higher education and professional qualifications.

What will i study?

You will study a variety of areas relevant to the support and development of children and young people with a focus on work-related methods. You will be able to critically reflect and analyse these issues from an academic perspective whilst relating to and evaluating these against your work-based professional practice.

You will follow a pathway of 120 credits (Level 6) which builds on your previous 240 credits (at Levels 4 and 5) gained from your Foundation Degree course or equivalent. As well as studying at university, you should be working in a child-related role (paid or voluntary) for a minimum of 15 hours per week.

What can i do next?

On completion of your Childhood Studies degree, you may wish to progress on a postgraduate teacher training course. You may choose to undertake a School Direct course or a PGCE. If you already have a wealth of teaching experience and may be eligible to enter the 'Assessment Only' route to gain Qualified Teacher Status (QTS).

Graduates have progressed on to a variety of social work and specialist courses, such as speech and language, and art therapy. Many students have continued onto Masters level study.