Course: BA (Hons) Applied Care Practice (Children & Families) (Progression Route)

The BA (Hons) Applied Care Practice (Children & Families) Progression Route is relevant to practitioners working with young people, children in care and education, and also to those who manage provision in the public, private and voluntary sectors. The applied nature of the degree provides theoretical knowledge along with practical application related to social care in contemporary society. The programme has been developed to allow those in the children and young people sector to further develop existing skills, and develop a broad range of practice skills, knowledge and understanding within key subject areas and to acquire and enhance their professional values, there is a particular focus on integrated practice. The programme has been specifically designed as a progression year for students successfully completing the Foundation degree in Early Years Practice and Foundation degree in Social Care Practice with 240 credits at Level 5 but welcomes students with similar qualifications. Attendance is one day a week during term time and students are expected to be in paid or voluntary work in a relevant setting for at least 10 hours per week.

One of the key strengths of the programme is its recognition of the value and relevance of the students practice and professional experience to a shared development. It recognises that effective practice requires committed, enthusiastic and reflective practitioners who have a breadth and depth of knowledge, skills and understanding of working in education, health and social care. The programme encourages students to reflect on the skills required to establish and maintain good working relationships with both clients and families; to gain an understanding of the individual and diverse ways that we live; to extend their knowledge and understanding of their practice in order that they can actively support individuals; and to work effectively with families, carers, the wider community, and other professionals within and beyond the setting.

Students should expect that achievement of this degree will enhance their career prospects and progression and will allow students to access postgraduate opportunities such as teaching (PGCE) or a Masters in Social Work, for example. The course is also designed to enable students to move between sectors and to participate fully within integrated teams.

Students will be supported in their specialist areas by sector professionals all of whom have recent practitioner experiences and relevant qualifications. Tuition fees include high levels of academic support, assessment for additional needs support if appropriate, access to thousands of journals and books online, virtual learning opportunities, very accessible tutors, good quality learning spaces and experienced teachers.

For further information and to apply for this course, please visit the University of Suffolk website.