Working with Children, Young People and Families (with placement year) BA (Hons) at University of Bradford

Overview

Gain the skills you need for a career working with children and families in this three-year, full-time BA (Hons) programme.

You’ll develop a firm understanding of policy and legislative issues, and get the hands-on practical experience you need to be an effective practitioner.

You’ll study topics such as:

• legislation relating to education, child protection and health
• roles and responsibilities of agencies
• multi-agency working
• communicating with children through play, art, and role play

The programme gives you the opportunity to explore different aspects of working with children and families, in a variety of environments. On graduation you’ll be able to pursue careers in areas such as family support, community development, education, and mentorship.

You may choose to pursue further study after graduation, such as the MA in Social Work, giving you the qualification you need to be a social worker.

Learning and assessment

You will explore the theoretical underpinnings of work with children and families, with a focus on synthesizing theory and practice. You will study communication, childcare law, modules in Sociology and Psychology, and will have the opportunity to develop practical skills in an optional Learning from Practice module in year 2.

You will undertake modules that explore the social policy and legislative backdrop in relation to children and families. You will explore issues around confidentiality, information sharing and interagency working. You will gain an understanding of the roles and responsibilities of agencies working with children and families including children’s centres, children’s social care, schools, the police and the health services.

Professionals in this field are encouraged to develop skills in direct work with children and families and you will be introduced to a range of practice skills and learn hands-on techniques to work with children including the use of play, art and role play. Throughout the three years of the degree, you will be encouraged to develop into a reflective practitioner.

This degree pathway is suitable for anyone already working with children and families, or for anyone leaving secondary education and wanting to start a career in working with children, young people and families.

Career prospects

Jobs that you may consider applying for after graduation include: family support worker, community development worker, extended schools co-ordinator, play leader, community care support worker, advice worker (e.g. housing advice), mentor and career adviser. You may choose to apply for a higher-level degree after graduation, for example, MA Social Work here at Bradford or a Postgraduate Certificate in FE Teaching.