Early Childhood in Society BA (Hons)

For many young children life is magical; their early years are carefree and full of wonder. For a significant minority of children however, life is not like this. These children and their families especially need professionals who understand their challenges and can speak out on their behalf. The BA Early Childhood in Society is a new and innovative course designed for people who want to do just that; work with or for children aged 0-8 and their families to make a positive difference in their lives. The course is designed to be flexible, allowing students to follow their own interests dependent on their career aspirations. The Early Childhood in Society Pathway is for those who want to gain employment in the wider early childhood sector. This pathway is underpinned by the concept of “social pedagogy”, which is a discipline that respects children as strong, capable and unique. It is particularly relevant to those who combine care and education as part of their role. Students undertaking this pathway would work with children and parents as equal partners. Although the discipline is relevant to everyone who works with children, it is particularly applicable for those working with children accessing support services, for example, childcare and early years, parenting and family support services, secure units for offenders with young children, excluded children, residential care, NGO / Charity work oversees or in the UK and play work.This pathway encourages students to reflect on their values and work with children and their families in a respectful and empathetic way. It prepares them to use their own personal attributes to build relationships with children and families to prevent or ease social problems and affect positive change.This course is taught alongside the BA (Hons) Early Childhood in Society (Graduate Practitioner)