STUDY

Overview

The BA (Hons) Applied Care Practice (Children & Families) Progression Route is relevant to practitioners working in childcare, and those who manage provision in the public, private and voluntary sectors. The applied nature of this degree combines theoretical knowledge with practical application, providing you with a comprehensive understanding of social care in contemporary society. The programme focuses on integrated practice and is designed to help professionals in the childcare sector build on their existing skills while broadening their expertise in key subject areas. It also aims to deepen their knowledge, enhance practical skills, and strengthen their professional values.

A key strength of the programme is our dedication to providing you with relevant practical and professional experience, equipping you with the knowledge, skills, and enthusiasm necessary for effective practice in education, health, and social care. The programme encourages you to reflect on the skills needed to build and maintain positive relationships with clients and families, understand the diverse ways people live, expand your knowledge of practice to actively support individuals, and collaborate effectively with families, carers, the wider community, and other professionals both within and outside the setting.

We have established strong partnerships with our employers, who actively encourage their staff to pursue the Foundation degree and fully support progression to this top-up programme. You will be supported in specialist areas by sector professionals, all of whom have recent practitioner experiences and relevant qualifications. Tuition fees include high levels of academic support, assessment for additional needs support if appropriate, access to thousands of journals and books online, virtual learning opportunities, very accessible tutors, good quality learning spaces and experienced teachers.

The course is offered at the University of Suffolk in Great Yarmouth, where students will be part of a large and expanding community of Higher Education learners, with access to dedicated facilities. The programme has been specifically designed as a progression year for students successfully completing the FdA Early Years Practice or FdA Social Welfare Advice and Guidance Practice with 240 credits at Level 5 but welcomes students with similar qualifications. It is a full-time course, typically requiring one to two days of on-campus attendance, supported by self-directed study. This flexible structure allows you to balance your studies with work and other commitments, as you are expected to be in paid or voluntary work in a relevant setting for at least 10 hours per week.