Working with Children and Young People and Families

Foundation degree

This foundation degree has been developed for frontline staff working with or aspiring to work with children, young people and families. Students choosing to study this foundation degree would normally work or do voluntary work in a variety of statutory or voluntary settings within a wide range of services.

This may include: supporting families in the community; working with young people who have physical and learning disabilities, working with young people in residential settings, working in family centres, supporting young people in schools or supporting service users who are experiencing difficulties with addiction, mental health issues or domestic violence.

The programme provides foundation knowledge and skills for individuals working with, or wishing to work with children, young people and families. The teaching on the programme is underpinned by a commitment to improving the life chances for some of the most disadvantaged members of society.

What will I study?

This foundation degree includes:

Learning to learn in a workplace context
Principles, values and ethics
Child development
Coaching and mentoring
Safeguarding and vulnerability
The legal framework
Equality and diversity
Leading and managing people
Supporting children and young people during transitions
Multi-agency working
Children’s development and behaviour

What can I do once I have completed this Foundation Degree?

Students who successfully complete this Foundation Degree programme can progress to the BA (Hons) in Social Care Practice.

Career relevance and employability

This foundation degree provides a sound basis for entering a variety of roles and settings in working with children, young people and families including statutory organisations such as children’s services, voluntary and community organisations , schools, colleges and youth participation projects.

The foundation degree is work-based and involves supervised and assessed practice with service users. Ideally you will carry out your practice within your place of work, either on an employed or voluntary basis. However if this is not possible you will need to undertake a placement, whilst studying for the foundation degree, as you need to complete 200 hours of relevant practice.

The degree prepares you to work with children, young people and families in a wide range of roles.

You will develop skills which will enable you to: