BSc (Hons) Child Health and Wellbeing

Summary 2012/13

• Gain a comprehensive understanding of child health and wellbeing and the factors that influence its development;
• Discover the holistic needs of children and families, undertake a work placement and develop the transferable skills needed for employment in this dynamic environment;
• Prepare for specialised Masters level study in social work, nursing or health visiting.

This degree will provide you with the subject knowledge to work with children in a variety of settings including health, education and social care. It will prepare you to work across boundaries whilst leading, managing and evaluating projects that support children and meet the five key outcomes of the Every Child Matters initiative. You will be able to recognise the health, social and economic factors that impact upon individuals and make a difference to the health and wellbeing of children and young people.

A work placement with the children's sector forms part of the programme to provide practical experience and enhance your future employment opportunities. As well as preparing you to be part of the children’s workforce, the programme also provides an opportunity to prepare for Masters level study in areas such as social work, nursing or health visiting.

2012 Entry Requirements

Typical offer 260 UCAS tariff points overall, including 160 points from two A levels each at grade C or above, or equivalent qualifications. You should also have at least five GCSEs at grade C or above including English Language.

If you accept a formal offer from Edge Hill University you will be required to apply for a Criminal Records Bureau Enhanced Disclosure indicating that you meet the mandatory criteria of 'Clearance to Work with Children and/or Vulnerable Adults'. Further information will be sent to you after you have firmly accepted an offer.

Summary 2013/14

• Gain a comprehensive understanding of child health and wellbeing and the factors that influence its development;
• Discover the holistic needs of children and families, undertake a work placement and develop the transferable skills needed for employment in this dynamic environment;
• Prepare for specialised Masters level study in social work, nursing or health visiting.

This degree will provide you with the subject knowledge to work with children in a variety of settings including health, education and social care. It will prepare you to work across boundaries whilst leading, managing and evaluating projects that support children and meet the five key outcomes of the Every Child Matters initiative. You will be able to recognise the health, social and economic factors that impact upon individuals and make a difference to the health and wellbeing of children and young people.

A work placement with the children's sector forms part of the programme to provide practical experience and enhance your future employment opportunities. As well as preparing you to be part of the children’s workforce, the programme also provides an opportunity to prepare for Masters level study in areas such as social work, nursing or health visiting.

2013 Entry Requirements

Typical offer 280 UCAS tariff points overall, including 160 points from two A levels each at grade C or above, or equivalent qualifications. You should also have at least five GCSEs at grade C or above including English Language.

If you accept a formal offer from Edge Hill University you will be required to apply for a Criminal Records Bureau Enhanced Disclosure indicating that you meet the mandatory criteria of 'Clearance to Work with Children and/or Vulnerable Adults'. Further information will be sent to you after you have firmly accepted an offer.

Details

Who is this course for?

This programme is designed for those working, or wishing to work, with children in a variety of settings that include health, education and social care. The course may be particularly suitable for individuals who wish to be part of the children’s workforce but are unsure which aspect they wish to concentrate on.

What will I gain from this programme?

This programme will enable you to recognise the health, social and economic factors that impact upon individuals and make a difference to the health and wellbeing of children and young people. The degree will also furnish you with an impressive range of transferable skills, including critical analysis of information, problem-solving and communication skills.

How we will support you

This degree is led by a programme leader and each module has an individual module coordinator. You will also be assigned a personal tutor to support your learning experience.

Edge Hill University has excellent student support systems in place and you will have access to excellent library facilities as well as learning services support.

What will I study?

Year 1 provides the basis of the theoretical content of the course. Study skills and communication modules will enable you to identify strengths and weaknesses and prepare you for future academic, personal and professional challenges. You will be introduced to child development and how external factors, including families and communities, can impact on the positive and negative aspects of child health and wellbeing.

During Year 2 you will explore the factors that are considered in the recognition and identification of the vulnerable child/young person, as well as the legal and ethical dilemmas that present in personal and professional life. You will develop your knowledge of current public health issues and health promotion, which will introduce you to the concept of brief interventions, a valuable tool for your future employment. A research module will provide you with the building blocks required to prepare for the dissertation module in Year 3.

In Year 3 you will have the choice of a dissertation module according to your own preferences. Positive behaviour support will be analysed and you will also examine and prepare for your personal and career development. Alongside the study of an optional module, you will also have the opportunity to explore an area of particular interest in a negotiated shell module.

How will I study?

The course is delivered during the day and includes a variety of lectures, seminars and tutorials. You will also have access to the virtual learning environment resources that are available.

Placement

During the final year of the course you will complete a three week placement within the children’s sector and also have the option of choosing a work-based module during year 2. You will also be actively encouraged to gain work experience in the children’s sector to enhance your future employment opportunities.

Who will be teaching me?

A variety of members of the Applied Health and Social Care team will be involved in the delivery of this programme. The majority are research active Senior Lecturers in the Faculty of Health and Social Care. Their areas of expertise and knowledge include nursing, health promotion, domestic abuse, nutrition, youth justice, social policy, safeguarding and behaviour support to name but a few.

How will I be assessed?

All modules contain opportunities for your work to be formatively assessed prior to summative assessment. Summative assessment consist of a variety of strategies including presentations, reflective essays, scenario based assignments, seen and unseen exams, case studies and in some instances, primary research.

What are my career prospects?

The Children and Young people’s workforce is undergoing great change in the current political and social climate. As such, there is a desire to attract graduates who can adapt to a changing environment with flexibility. Graduates of this course will therefore be able to apply for a variety of roles in Children's Services including health, education and social care. The degree is also advantageous for those who wish to progress onto specialised Masters programmes such as social work, nursing or health visiting

Further study at Edge Hill University

Once you have successfully completed this programme, there are a range of additional modules and postgraduate pathways available within the Faculty of Health and Social Care's professional development portfolio.

Related Programmes

• BA (Hons) Health and Social Wellbeing
• BSc (Hons) Nutrition and Health

A Great Study Environment

Based in 160 acres of beautifully landscaped grounds, the Ormskirk Campus is a unique and inspirational place to study. Industry-standard resources and cutting edge technology combine to make an interactive and highly advanced teaching and learning environment. Everything you could want is on one site with 25 acres of sport and leisure facilities, more than 1,400 rooms in halls of residence and fantastic modern spaces in which you can study and socialise.

The University library gives you access to thousands of books, journals, online resources and extensive PC and media provision. You will get all the support you need to succeed, reflected in Edge Hill University being ranked in the top two in England for students' personal development, and the top three in the country for assessment and feedback, in the 2011 National Student Survey. The University is also featured in the top four in England for graduate employment.

How do I apply?

Apply online through UCAS for the full-time programme. For part-time study, apply directly to Edge Hill University.

Visit www.edgehill.ac.uk/apply for more information on the application process and our Admissions criteria.

Fees and Finance

Full-Time Study

For academic year 2012/13, Edge Hill University will charge £9,000 for full-time BA, BSc and LLB degrees. Eligible full-time students will not have to pay upfront for their tuition. The cost of tuition will be paid by a loan which you will only start to repay once you have finished the course and are earning over £21,000.

Eligible full-time students can also apply for a maintenance grant, subject to household income, and a non-means-tested loan to help with living costs.

Edge Hill University offers a range of scholarships for prospective full-time students. These include £2,000 Entrance Scholarships rewarding determination, commitment and achievement in creative arts, performing arts, sport and volunteering. Eligible entrants with outstanding grades are recognised through the £1,000 High Achievers Scholarship.

The University will also be offering awards, worth £3,000 in cash benefits and fee/accommodation waivers for academic year 2012/13, to eligible prospective full-time students through the National Scholarship Programme.

For more information on scholarships, including eligibility criteria for each award, visit www.edgehill.ac.uk/scholarships.

To find out more about fees, grants and loans for full-time students in academic year 2012/13, visit www.edgehill.ac.uk/undergradfees2012.

Please note, the above information is for UK and eligible EU students only. International students should check the fees and finance information at www.edgehill.ac.uk/internationalfees2012.

Part-Time Study

Tuition fees for part-time study on this degree are £75 per credit for academic year 2012/13; i.e. £750 per 10 credit module, £1,125 per 15 credit module, £1,500 per 20 credit module and £2,250 per 30 credit module. A total of 360 credits are required to complete an undergraduate degree.

Eligible part-time students will not have to pay upfront for their tuition. The cost of tuition will be paid by a loan which you will only start to repay once you have finished the course and are earning over £21,000 a year.

For more information on the financial support available for part-time undergraduate degree students in academic year 2012/13, visit www.edgehill.ac.uk/undergradfees2012pt.

Please note, the above information is for UK and eligible EU students only.

Not got the entry requirements?

Consideration will be given to applicants with non-traditional qualifications who have relevant and considerable children's workforce experience. Please contact the programme leader to discuss your individual circumstances.

If you do not have the GCSEs required for this programme, Edge Hill offers equivalency tests in English, mathematics and science.

Where can I find out more?

If you would like to receive a copy of our prospectus or be kept updated about forthcoming events, contact the Course Information, Advice and Guidance Team by emailing study@edgehill.ac.uk or calling 01695 657000.

If you want to attend one of our open events held throughout the year, visit www.edgehill.ac.uk/opendays to book your place.

You will also find Edge Hill University staff at many national careers fairs and UCAS events.

Still want more?

If you have any questions you would like to ask the programme leader about this course, please contact:

• Carol Wilson, Faculty of Health and Social Care, Edge Hill University, St Helens Road, Ormskirk, Lancashire, L39 4QP
• Tel: 01695 657016
• Email: wilsonc@edgehill.ac.uk

Overseas students should visit www.edgehill.ac.uk/international or email international@edgehill.ac.uk for further information.

Modules

Year 1

Essential Study Skills for Undergraduates (20 credits) has been designed to set the context for study by offering you the opportunity to examine learning styles and activities, which may enhance your personal / educational development. You will be encouraged to identify your individual needs, backgrounds and experiences in relation to study skills and explore how these may be developed within your programme of study. This module will enable you to develop advanced study skills to enhance your time and organisational management and thus prepare you to take advantage of further studies and new situations.

Communication Skills (20 credits). Effective communication skills are essential for anyone dealing with the public in order to work collaboratively and as members of a team. As such, you will be supported in developing self-awareness and communication skills by enhancing your listening skills and your ability to empathise. The skills of giving unconditional positive regard and how to act as an advocate for others will also be addressed.

Child Development in the Social Context (30 credits) will further your knowledge and understanding of all aspects of typical development in children and young people. You will discover how external and internal influences can affect the ability of children and young people to reach their full potential and the key outcomes of Every Child Matters (2003).

Family and Community Structure Dynamics (30 credits) focuses on the diversity of family structure and dynamics and also examines the configuration and function of communities within society. You will be able to identify the importance of family dynamics and the influence that this has upon children’s outcomes within the family and wider community. The module will enhance your understanding of the positive and negative effects that the wider community can have on individual families.

Childhood Nutrition (20 credits) enables you to explore and identify optimum nutrition for children and young people. The module will enhance your understanding of the factors that prevent and support all children in maintaining an adequate diet. Current issues regarding the nutrition of children and young people, such as obesity and eating disorders, will also be explored.

Year 2

Law and Ethics (20 credits) is a module designed to develop awareness of accountability and accountable practice within the legal, professional and ethical frameworks pertinent to a potential future client base. In addition, the module will encourage you to reflect upon your personal and professional abilities and boundaries and consider the importance of the multi-professional team.

Identification of the Vulnerable Child (20 credits) recognises the importance of accurate and relevant assessment in identifying the strengths and needs in all children. The module will also analyse the use of the assessment process in order to identify vulnerability and utilise the knowledge and skills of the multi-professional team to ensure the safeguarding and protection of all children.

Research Module (30 credits) will facilitate an understanding of research and its application and ensure you are able to critically appraise information offered in terms of its validity and reliability. A critical appreciation of research methodology is crucial and opportunities will be provided to examine the application of both qualitative and quantitative methods.

Public Health and Health Promotion (30 credits) analyses the health promotion programmes specifically designed for children. The aim of these initiatives is to enhance the health and wellbeing of children as well as reducing any risk-taking behaviours. Subject matter will include dietary patterns, physical activity, keeping young people safe, avoiding smoking, harmful substances and recreational drugs. The ability to achieve a healthy lifestyle for children will also be a pivotal area of study within this module.

Opportunities will be provided to explore the public health agenda and reflect upon current legislation, policy and the socio-political and cultural influences that may impact on the health and wellbeing of children and young people.

You must also choose one of the following three modules:

The Working Environment (20 credits) encourages you to reflect upon policies and procedures within a working environment and examine how those policies are communicated and impact on the ability to work in partnership. You will also be given the opportunity to experience a work environment involving children/young people in order to enhance your employability prospects for the future.

Community Profiling (20 credits) will equip you with the necessary skills and knowledge to become confident and competent in the art of community profiling. The module will introduce you to community profiling and the theory behind the initiative, as well as developing understanding of the various methods utilised when profiling different community settings. The module philosophy will be underpinned by communication, partnership and multi-agency integrated working practices.

Offending Behaviours (20 credits) will encompass a broad review of the nature and scale of offending, explored from economic, cultural, sociological, developmental and psychological perspectives. There will be a clear recognition within the module that the particular motivation for offending is as individual as the offender themselves whilst grouping them typologically in order to facilitate meta-analysis. In addition, the module will explore the role and impact of multi-factorial drivers of offending. The variety of offences will also be explored from a socio-legal perspective and the two strands will be drawn together to facilitate a review of social policy/therapeutic responses relating to the prevention and treatment of adult offending.

Year 3

Personal Achievement and Career Planning (20 credits) is an opportunity to review your workplace experience by evaluating the links between theory and practice. The module will enable you to identify and reflect on your own achievements and potential and help you to develop personal profiles and career strategies. This includes CV writing, reflecting on your strengths and weaknesses, interview preparation and assembling a personal portfolio. This will begin to prepare you for the transition from study to the world of work.

Dissertation (30 credits) requires you to focus on an area of interest which will be agreed with your supervisor. The module will engage you in a structured review of the literature related to your specific area of study. It will involve applying critical analysis to existing literature and making recommendations to improve service provision as you plan, carry out and write up a piece primary research.

Positive Behaviour Support (30 credits) examines the behaviour of children and analyses the relationship of this behaviour to work-based settings. The module will explore the various ways that strategies can be utilised in supporting children's behaviour.

Shell Module (20 credits) is designed to allow you to negotiate with academic staff, and your workplace if appropriate, to focus on an area of interest. This may be for the enhancement of practice or for the achievement of more in-depth knowledge and skills with particular significance to the workplace and/or student. The module will provide a rigorous framework for the approval and completion of such study.

You must also choose one of the following two modules:

Protecting Children and Young People at Risk (30 credits) provides you with the opportunity to critically reflect upon and evaluate child protection policy and practice as well as develop skills and knowledge in enhancing practice development. You will critically analyse government policy and the law in relation to protecting children and evaluating evidence, with a particular emphasis being placed on collaboration, communication and partnership working, across organisational and professional boundaries. You will develop your knowledge and critical analysis skills and apply this to practice, fostering a positive and innovative change in culture.

Domestic Abuse (30 credits) explores the theories of domestic abuse and critically analyses the impact domestic abuse has on the health of women and children. The module will also evaluate the services available for women and children suffering from domestic abuse and analyse the way in which the multi professional team support and respond to it.