Back to subject area

BA Working with Children, Young People and Families (full-time)

Undergraduate

Start date
Study mode
Course length
UCAS Code

Interested in a different start date?

BA Working with Children, Young People and Families (full-time)

There are many challenges facing children and their families today. Supporting children, young people and families requires informed, dedicated and educated professionals who are able to understand the social, economic, political and cultural context in which we work, so that we can respond appropriately to these challenges.

Grounded in social justice, this course prepares our students for roles as senior practitioners and policy makers by offering them the opportunity to develop a critical understanding of the issues impacting upon families at a local, national and international level. We do this by drawing from professional expertise, social theory and the wealth of experiences brought to us by our students.

The course provides an opportunity to cover a range of multi-disciplinary issues relating to the lives of children, young people and their families
The course is up to date, keeping pace with changes in society.
You will have opportunities to volunteer or undertake project work with local community organisations and apply the theoretical knowledge gained on the course to real-life scenarios under the supervision of experienced practitioners.
You will develop transferable skills which will be relevant to a wide range of graduate employment contexts.

Got a question you’d like to ask?

Entry requirements, for UK home students, for September 2025 entry: 112 UCAS points

The full-time course fee, for UK home students, for September 2025 is: £9,535

Additional Costs

Check out our blog/news/events

Emma Powell

Dr Emma Powell Named Finalist in Birmingham Awards 2025 – Contribution to Education

Dr. Emma Powell SFHEA, Senior Lecturer in Primary ITE at Birmingham Newman University, has been…

Student at library desk

Birmingham Newman University Library Recognised as THE Award Finalist for Pioneering AI Support

Forward-thinking work to support the responsible and innovative use of AI in academia has landed…

Student sitting down with laptop

Birmingham Newman University is delighting in the news that St John Henry Newman, our Patron, will be the newest Doctor of the Catholic Church

Pope Leo made the official announcement – Conferral of the Title of Doctor of the…

Dr Marie Rowlands, Professor Judith Champ, alongside Fr. Cecil Rogerson, presented Dr Rowlands with the Bene Merenti Medal on 22 February 2020 in recognition of her contribution to Catholic Life and Witness in the Midlands

Dr Marie Rowlands Rest In Peace

Long-standing friend and former student of Dr Marie Rowlands, Professor Judith Champ, alongside Fr. Cecil…

Students - greenhouse

Birmingham Newman University Shortlisted for Prestigious Sustainability Award

Birmingham Newman University has been shortlisted for the 2025 Green Gown Awards in the Creating…

Book an open day

Find out about our next open day. Book now to secure your place.

Promoting participation
20 Credits (Compulsory)

This module will focus on developing an understanding of the need to work in partnership ?with© children, young people and families in different contexts in order to promote participation and to challenge deficit assumptions about those with whom we work. It will critically analyse different theories and approaches to participation and begin to challenge the power that practitioners exercise when making decisions that affect children, young people and families.

Special educational needs and disability
20 Credits (Compulsory)

This module will enable students to develop an understanding and analysis of disability that builds on the concepts they engage with in ‘Equality, Diversity and Inclusion’ and ‘Understanding Discrimination’.
The content of the module will be based on a human rights model and will encourage students to see issues relating to mental ill-health, physical and learning disabilities in their social, political and ideological context. The module will enable the students to understand that issues of special educational needs and disability are best understood through an anti-discriminatory, values-led approach and not via a diagnostic or medical perspective.

Working creatively
20 Credits

This module explores the use of creative approaches and methodologies in engaging with children, young people, and families. It aims to develop students’ understanding of how creative activities can foster positive multicultural relationships, support wellbeing, and address challenges within diverse family and community contexts. Students will engage with theories of creativity and practical strategies to inspire and facilitate meaningful participation and self-expression.

Understanding discrimination
20 Credits (Compulsory)

This module will explore the historical context for discrimination in the UK, who has the power to discriminate and how discrimination is experienced. The module will critically evaluate theories of discrimination, including Hegemony, Critical Race Theory and Feminist Theory through a Personal, Cultural and Structural model of understanding discrimination. The module will focus on exploring discrimination of different groups in society and the intersection and overlap of inequalities. A central focus of the module will be on the policy response to discrimination in the UK, the roles and responsibilities of institutions in relation to discrimination and examining the extent to which the issues have been addressed.

Research methods
20 Credits (Compulsory)

This module will develop students’ research literacy with a view to helping them understand where, why and how research was developed and its relationship to practice. It will focus on strengthening the knowledge, understanding and skills needed for students to proceed with their Capstone module at level 6. The module will help students to explore the Capstone options so that they can make informed decisions/choices.

Developing cultural competence
20 Credits (Compulsory)

This module aims to equip students with the knowledge, skills, and attitudes necessary to work effectively and sensitively in culturally diverse contexts. It emphasizes the importance of understanding cultural identity, recognizing biases, and fostering inclusive practices when supporting children, young people, and families. Students will critically examine how culture influences perspectives, communication, and practices, and develop strategies to promote equity and respect in professional settings.

Human growth and development
20 Credits

This module will enable students to explore the stages human development through the life course from pre-birth to later life and death and will consider how the lives of individuals and families are shaped by physical and environmental factors. Students will reflect upon life course stages through the lens of their own diverse, lived experiences, and consider the implications of life course for practice in working with children, young people and families.

Our Careers team provides tailored advice, placements and workshops to help you build confidence and prepare for life after university.?

Live, Learn & Belong at Birmingham Newman??

At Birmingham Newman University, you’ll enjoy the best of both worlds: a peaceful, green campus that creates the ideal setting for focused study and personal reflection, yet remains just eight miles from the vibrant city centre. As the UK’s second-largest city, Birmingham is also one of the youngest and most diverse in Europe, offering a dynamic blend of culture, innovation and opportunity. From world-renowned museums and music venues to a thriving food scene alongside a growing business and tech sector, it’s a place where creativity and ambition naturally thrive.?

Experience Birmingham: A City Full of Possibilities?

Whether you're discovering the Midlands for the first time or already know the area well, Birmingham provides a lively and inclusive environment for students. As one of the most energetic and multicultural cities in the UK, it’s a place where you can grow academically while developing personally. Its rich cultural heritage, creative energy and broad range of opportunities make it an inspiring backdrop for your university journey.?

A City That Loves Great Food?

Birmingham is a brilliant place to explore diverse culinary experiences. You might wander through the famous Balti Triangle, sample global street food at Digbeth Dining Club or enjoy a relaxed meal by the canals in Brindleyplace. The city is also home to independent cafés, vegan-friendly eateries and countless hidden gems. Whether you're grabbing a quick bite between lectures or planning an evening out, there’s always something new to discover.?

Arts, Culture and Entertainment?

The city pulses with creativity. You could catch live music at the O2 Academy, experience a world-class performance at the Birmingham Hippodrome or browse exhibitions at the Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery. Creative spaces like the Custard Factory showcase local talent while hosting events that celebrate innovation. With festivals, sporting fixtures and cultural celebrations taking place year-round, there’s never a shortage of things to enjoy.?

Simple & Convenient Travel?

Getting around Birmingham is straightforward thanks to its well-connected public transport system. Buses, trams and trains make it easy to reach campus, explore the city or travel further afield. Whether you're commuting daily or heading off for a weekend adventure, transport is both accessible and affordable.?

Life Beyond the Lecture Hall?

Your time at Birmingham Newman University extends far beyond academic study. You’ll have the chance to join student societies, contribute to community projects or try something entirely new. The university’s supportive atmosphere encourages you to build confidence, develop practical skills and feel genuinely at home throughout your studies.?

The skills and knowledge gained from undertaking this course provide an excellent preparation for a wide range of occupations including careers in pastoral roles in education, family support work, social care, community support roles, employment within local authorities, health or charity sectors, culture, heritage or recreation.

It is intended that graduates from this course will develop into managers and leadership roles capable of dealing with multi-agency working with a range of knowledge and inter-personal skills.

Graduates can also progress onto a wide range of postgraduate degree programmes including social work, or teacher training or Psychology conversion.

Accreditations and Exemptions: TBC

Courses we think you'll also like

Instagram does not support direct link sharing, below is the page URL to copy to add to Instagram posts manually: