COURSE CURRICULUM

The Special Education foundation year and subsequent degree program provide a comprehensive pathway for students interested in early childhood education and special education. Starting with the foundation year, the program focuses on developing essential professional and personal skills. Through modules like Mental Wealth, students enhance their emotional, social, and cognitive intelligence, which are crucial for their professional growth. This year also includes key modules such as Introduction to Early Childhood and Special Needs Education, which lay the groundwork for understanding the core concepts of early childhood education, special needs, and behavioral development. Placements in educational settings offer practical experience, allowing students to apply theoretical knowledge in real-world contexts.In the first year, the program deepens students' understanding of social justice, inclusion, and diversity within educational settings. The module Exploring Social Worlds enables students to reflect on the socio-cultural experiences of children and young people, while Key Principles for Inclusion and Diversity builds a critical understanding of Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) practices. Research skills are further developed in the Building Research Communities module, which prepares students for independent, ethical research within the field. A particular focus is placed on learning difficulties such as dyslexia and ADHD, equipping students with strategies to support these challenges.By the second year, students are further refining their professional development through the Mental Wealth module, which emphasizes emotional literacy and reflective skills. The Identity and Social Justice module expands students' understanding of the broader social, political, and economic factors affecting children's lives. The final year brings together all the learning, with modules on global perspectives in education, communication strategies for children with Autism Spectrum Disorder, and an Independent Research Project, allowing students to apply their knowledge to a real-world issue in the education field. Overall, the program offers a balance of theory, practice, and research, preparing graduates for successful careers in early childhood and special education.