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The BA (Hons) Childhood programme explores the well-established academic discipline of childhood studies. The programme focuses on the multi-disciplinary nature of the study of childhood, which embraces diverse academic disciplines such as sociology, education, psychology, philosophy, social policy, health and disability studies. Such inclusion allows for the diverse, multi-faceted experiences of children to be explored, contextualised and interrogated through application of social science perspectives. This approach has a proven record in supporting you to develop and follow particular interests in this diverse field.  

In the later years of study, you will have the opportunity to acquire specific knowledge and understanding in specialised aspects of childhood and their associated career opportunities through one of three discreet pathways. These pathways will be specifically named in the final degree award.

• Pathway 1: Disability, Health and Wellbeing: offers a grounding in human development from an ecological perspective; health, well-being; and disability, from both a bio-psycho-social perspective and the disability-studies, rights-based approach.
• Pathway 2: Education: examines early and primary education and the underpinning values of professional practice. Practice modules are available within this pathway. You can work towards an optional Early Childhood Graduate Competencies certification, developed by the Early Childhood Degree Network (ECSDN) and supported by the Department for Education (DfE).  
• Pathway 3: Children, Rights and Social Justice: is underpinned by empowerment, rights, and agency in childhood(s) and families across differing contexts and will enhance students’ ability to elevate voices of children and families. You will gain practical experience of working with children and families, such as placements with charities and the public sector, as part of preparation for employment with children.

On this course, you will engage with children, understand their rights, listen to their experiences, and prioritise these without imagining to be fully cognizant of the child’s world. You will be equipped to do this through an extensive range of modules, which build on a diversity of social sciences without privileging one perspective over another. Through this array of lenses, you will interrogate contemporary issues and debates within childhood from local, national and international contexts.   

An in-depth understanding of diversity and difference in children and childhoods will enable you to develop, adopt and champion inclusive and participatory attitudes and practice throughout your studies and into your future career. We want to equip you with the skills to become change agents in your future organisations and communities.

The academic team draws on years of academic and professional expertise in childhood, education, child health, development and therapeutic working. You will benefit from close working relationships with a highly qualified teaching team who will help you to explore and uncover the fascinating world of children and childhood.