COURSE CURRICULUM

The Playwork and Childhood Studies program provides a comprehensive exploration of child development, play, and experiential learning, with an emphasis on practical application in professional environments. In the first year, students begin with core modules such as "Playwork: Foundations of Theory & Practice," which introduces the basic principles of playwork, and "Child Development: Exploring Issues & Perspectives on Play," where students examine how play influences child development. "Childhood: Theory, Constructs & Concepts" provides foundational theories and concepts related to childhood studies, while "Experiential Learning: Theory & Practice Explored" delves into learning theories and their real-world applications. Students also engage in "Experiential Learning: Organisational Development," where they analyze the structure and management of an agency, working on an agency development plan. The first year concludes with "Experiential Learning: Reflective Practice," helping students develop the ability to critically reflect on their experiences.In the second year, students focus on deepening their understanding of key concepts with modules like "Playwork: Critical Applications," which explores the practical applications of playwork in various settings. "Childhood: Rights & Society" examines the social and legal frameworks surrounding childhood, focusing on children’s rights. "Experiential Learning: Theory & Practice Advanced" builds on the previous year’s experiential learning module, offering more advanced skills and knowledge. "Experiential Learning: Objectives & Evaluation" helps students refine their ability to set learning objectives and evaluate outcomes, while "Experiential Learning: Developing Reflexivity" encourages students to critically reflect on their practice and professional development.In the final year, students focus on specialized topics such as "Playwork: Therapeutic Interventions," where they explore the use of play in therapeutic settings, and "Project Development: Managing Design & Delivery," which covers the planning and management of projects within childhood services. "Childhood: Research Perspectives" provides students with the skills to conduct research in childhood studies, and the program culminates in the "Childhood Development & Playwork: Dissertation," where students undertake a substantial research project that integrates theory and practice in the field of childhood development and playwork. This program equips students with the theoretical knowledge and practical skills required to work effectively in child-focused environments.