Sheffield Hallam introduces new childcare degree
Simon Vevers
Monday, September 15, 2008
A new degree-level qualification for professionals working with vulnerable children, young people and their families has been developed by Sheffield Hallam University and the British Association for Adoption and Fostering.
The BA in Safeguarding and Caring for Children and Young People has been devised with the help of foster carers and care leavers so students can learn first-hand about children’s rights and their need to have a say in planning their own care.
Course leader Pete Nelson said: “It is designed to be work based, part-time and flexible so that people can take inidividual modules to meet specific learning and development needs. The theory and research can continually be applied to work practice so it’s also practical.”
The course, which will be taught at one of BAAF’s regional centres, will enable students to update their knowledge of legal and policy developments and be trained in producing reports for use in court or to present to adoption panels.
Social workers with a diploma who successfully complete the course will gain a full honours degree. Those who already have a degree will receive a graduate certificate or a graduate diploma in Safeguarding and Caring for Children and Young People.