Working with Children, Young People and Families

Turn your passion into purpose through Working with Children, Young People and Families at Birmingham Newman University.

Discover how social justice, inclusive practice and critical thinking prepare you to support children and families in a complex and changing world. Whether your interests lie in education, social care, youth work or community development, our degree helps you build the knowledge, confidence and compassion to make a lasting difference. You’ll be supported to explore your values, challenge assumptions and develop the skills to work effectively across professional settings.

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Working with Children, Young People and Families courses

Working With Young People and Children students in class

BA Single Honours Working with Children, Young People & Families (Top-Up)

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Working With Young People and Children classroom with students and lecturer

BA Single Honours Working with Children, Young People and Families (with Foundation Year) (full-time)

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

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BA Counselling Studies and Working with Children, Young People and Families (part-time)

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BA Joint Hons Counselling Studies & Working with Children, Young People & Families (with Fnd) (full-time)

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BA Joint Honours Counselling Studies and Working with Children, Young People & Families(full-time)

Start date:: Various

Social Justice and Inclusion Focus

Explore how policy, society and culture shape the lives of children and families, with a strong emphasis on ethical and inclusive practice.

Reflective, student-centred learning

Use research and theory to help you to make sense of your own life experiences as part of your professional development.

No Exams Assessment Structure

Develop your skills through essays, presentations, portfolios and case studies. Written exams are not part of the assessment structure.

Progression to Professional Training

Prepare for postgraduate routes in social work, teacher training, psychology or leadership in social enterprises and the charitable sector with a degree that builds transferable skills.

Flexible and focused learning. Choose from full-time or part-time routes including the BA (Hons) Working with Children, Young People and Families and the Foundation Year pathway. Our flexible study options support work, family and/or voluntary commitments, allowing you to progress at a pace that suits your goals. You’ll benefit from a curriculum that blends academic rigour with practical relevance, preparing you for employment, further study and leadership roles.

Supportive and empowering learning. Learn from experienced lecturers and practitioners who bring professional insight and academic depth into every session. Small-group teaching, reflective learning and personalised support create an environment where you can grow academically, personally and professionally. You’ll be part of a learning community that values your voice and supports your development every step of the way.

‘One of the most inspiring aspects of the Working with Children, Young People and Families subject area at Birmingham Newman University is the way students and lecturers learn from one another, creating a collaborative and reflective learning environment.’ – Dr Dan Whisker, Senior Lecturer, Working With Children, Young People and Families

Study in a way that suits you. Experience the vibrant community of our campus, enriched by guest speakers, collaborative projects and opportunities to work with local organisations. You’ll also benefit from volunteering, project work and placements that connect theory to practice. Our inclusive approach ensures that all students feel welcome, supported and empowered to succeed in diverse settings.

Working with Children, Young People and Families at Birmingham Newman University prepares you for a wide range of careers across education, social care, health and the voluntary sector. You will graduate with the critical insight, practical experience and professional values needed to support children and families in meaningful and ethical ways. Our graduates go on to work in schools, local authorities, charities, youth services and community organisations.

FAQs

What do I need to study Working with Children, Young People and Families at university?

You typically need 112 UCAS points. A Foundation Year route is available for those with fewer points or relevant life experience. Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) clearance is required for placements. We welcome applications from mature learners and those with non-traditional qualifications.

What jobs can I get with a Working with Children, Young People and Families degree?

Graduates can pursue careers in family support, youth work, education, social care, community development, health and the charity sector. Roles include teaching assistant, advice worker, community education officer, family support worker and youth worker.

What do you study in Working with Children, Young People and Families?

You’ll explore topics such as equality and inclusion, voice and participation, human development, critical theory and representations of childhood. You’ll also complete a placement and a final-year project aligned to your interests.

How is Working with Children, Young People and Families assessed at university?

Assessment includes essays, presentations, portfolios, reflective tasks and research projects. You’ll receive regular feedback and one-to-one academic support to help you develop your confidence and skills.

How much does studying Working with Children, Young People and Families cost and what funding can I get?

For UK students, tuition fees are £9,535 per year for 2025-26. No fees are paid upfront and repayments begin only once you earn over £25,000 per year. Birmingham Newman University offers financial support including bursaries, scholarships and flexible payment plans.