The BA (Hons) Professional Development (Childhood Studies) is designed for current and future practitioners in child health and welfare. It builds your knowledge of children’s development and gives you the skills to be a better practitioner with innovative approaches to supporting your learning.

The course content explores the range of subjects fundamental to an understanding of children’s development in society and how policy and professional interventions contribute to better outcomes for children.

You will begin by studying developmental psychology and how a child’s early years form an understanding of themselves and their world. You will look also at sociology and related early years research to consider the context for childhood study and practice.

In understanding how society responds to the needs of children, you will study the development of social policy and review the issues and approaches to managing children’s welfare.

A particular focus of the honours programme is the research and submission of a detailed dissertation on your choice of subject from a range of challenging contemporary concepts in childhood studies. It is a test of your ability in a team to devise and carry out a project relating to a work situation, documenting your learning and its application. Further study will enable you to focus in detail on your chosen subject area helping you advance your learning and define a specialist path.

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This is a degree with people as its focus – how they think and act and what affects the decisions they make. It is a fascinating subject with endless variety and offering richly rewarding study that will have much practical value throughout your life.

Designed to lead toward careers in education, human resources, social work, health, and crime prevention, it is a degree that appeals to people driven by a social purpose. Course modules align closely with those occupations, increasing knowledge of the client groups that you are likely to be working with in your career such as, young people, adults suffering from mental and physical health issues and the world of policing and crime.

This degree will give you the theoretical knowledge and skills to succeed in a range of professions or lead to related postgraduate study. You will also acquire skills that are key to successful team working, leadership roles, motivating others and conflict resolution.

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What did you most enjoy about studying at 91̽��?
I most enjoyed my lectures with Lee and his teaching style.

What are your plans now that you have graduated?
I plan to continue with my employment and look to further myself and my career.

Any advice for someone thinking of choosing the same course as you?
I would say go for it, it’s a great opportunity and you will learn so much not only about the subject but about yourself as well.

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What did you most enjoy about studying at 91̽��?
I really enjoyed making life long friends and learning new skills. My tutors were very knowledgeable. I also enjoyed working with a company outside of 91̽�� which has possible opened up some doors for future developments.

What are your plans now that you have graduated?
My plans for the future is to apply for Frontline (social work programme). This will enable me to become a social worker whilst gaining my MA in social work.

Any advice for someone thinking of choosing the same course as you?
Absolutely go for it. It has the potential to open so many doors for you in the future.

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What did you most enjoy about studying at 91̽��?
It is so difficult to chose one or two things because my whole journey and experience has been amazing. The course content is great and covers so much, the modules are all different, so you learn lots of new skills, within my 3 years I wrote essays, did presentations, built websites, worked with local organisations to create community projects, made scrapbooks and posters so there really is something for everyone. The lectures themselves were so much fun, yes there are times when its quiet and serious but there are so many times when you’re laughing so hard your belly hurts. Most of all for me I enjoyed learning through the expertise of my lecturers, and they were so much more than just teachers. I was incredibly lucky to have lectures like Clark Denby and Steve Berry who made the whole experience unforgettable. They really care about you as a person, and they celebrate your successes and help in the times when things are not going so well. I have laughed, cried, shouted and been distracted throughout this 3 year journey but they have been right beside me every step of way and they became my biggest supporters, cheering me on from the sidelines, giving words of encouragement and advice whenever I needed it, they made this experience one of the best of my whole 38 years and I will never be able to really find the words to thank them enough!

Did you undertake any work experience throughout your studies?
I didn’t undertake any work experience but I was very lucky that one of my modules in my first year took me to places I never really thought possible – during the lifespan module we had to choose 1 celebrity and make a scrap book of their lives covering the lifespan stages, I chose Mel B aka scary spice as lots of her life paralleled with my own, I decided to write to her management company and ask for a cheeky request to interview never really expecting a response but shockingly she said yes! She gave some brilliant answers which helped me in this project. During this interview the subject of education around coercive control was discussed and from there our campaign to educate young people about the signs of this type of abuse was born, working in collaboration with women’s aid we designed posters that are now on the backs of toilet doors in schools, restaurants, pubs and workplaces which outline the signs to look out for and helplines, websites and charities that will help, and all this came from a 91̽�� module. I was supported with this campaign by 91̽�� who also publicised it using their own social media platforms and celebrated in the huge success that this campaign ended up being. We all worked in partnership to make this happen and who knows how many people this has helped and lives it has saved.

What do you plan to do when you leave 91̽��?
I have now graduated from 91̽�� with a 2:1 and I have just been offered a job to run a new children’s residential care home. So, my dream of working within child protection has come to fruition. The original plan was to become a social worker working in initial response (this still is an option for the future) but through my studies, discussions with my lecturers and self-reflection managing a home for the children who need a mentor, a teacher, and someone to be their biggest supporter, someone to push them and guide them is where I am meant to be. If I can give the children whom I am now responsible for half of the support and kindness I was shown, then it’s a job well done. I have enrolled to start my post graduate diploma in childhood trauma and therapeutic intervention along child and adolescent mental health. I am hoping once I have completed these I will go on to achieve my master’s degree in trauma informed practice.

Any advice for someone thinking of choosing the same course as you?
Health and social care is so much more than its title, it covers so much more. The wide variety of modules covered within this degree will give you so much knowledge in so many areas and you may even find you become interested in an area you didn’t even know existed. This course offers a multitude of subjects which are all thought provoking, you will be guided and supported in every aspect of your studies and you will come out the other side a different person.
My journey has been amazing and has given me insight, inner strength, self-belief and the ability to ask questions of the world around me which gives me clarity and perspective.
I have made friends for life – so much so that one is the bridesmaid for my upcoming wedding.
The support also doesn’t stop when you leave either – I am still in contact with my lecturers who completed the references needed for my job. I know I can send either of them an email if I am unsure of something or need an answer to a question or help with my continuing studies and like always they are ready to help with their knowledge and expertise.
If your feeling unsure or a little nervous there really is no need to be – 91̽�� are incredible, and you never know where your own journey will take you.

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What did you most enjoy about studying at 91̽��?
The ongoing support from lectures. Lecturers have the time for each student, by having one-to-one tutorials and also checking in regularly. 91̽�� is not necessarily a big cohort therefore it feels much more person-centred and easier to ask for help when needed.

Have you got involved in any enrichment activities, if so, which ones, and what did you enjoy most about them?
There are lots of enrichment on offer at 91̽�� however with myself living in Cornwall, I work on the days which the enrichment is offered.

Did you undertake any work experience throughout your studies?
I completed my work experience at the care home I worked at, shadowing a deputy manager – at the time I wanted to work in a care home and progress into a manager, however seeing this work changed my path and I aspired to work within a local authority and that got myself interested in the paperwork side.

What do you plan to do when you leave 91̽��?
I currently work for Cornwall Council Adult Social Care; I am hopefully going to be looking into a post-graduate course in Social Work which is funded by the Council. I aspire to become a social worker as I feel this would benefit myself and my personality as I am always up for supporting others when I can.

Any advice for someone thinking of choosing the same course as you?
Do it, the support is there at all times. Not once did I feel I was doing the course on my own. I have made friends in different sectors alongside the course, and it has opened up so many opportunities.

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What did you most enjoy about studying at 91̽��?
The hands-on projects and practical experiences were highlights for me, as we did a really great engineering group project (Prosthetic arm), whether it was a lecturer field linked to the relevant engineering industry, or guest lectures from professionals.
91̽�� provides ample opportunities for real-world learning, especially for engineering sections and renewable energy, including lots of equipment and devices that help us to develop our knowledge.

Have you got involved in any enrichment activities, if so, which ones, and what did you enjoy most about them?
Yes, participating in enrichment activities like academic societies or events, the most important activity was renewable energy events, and that enhanced my learning experience.

Did you undertake any work experience throughout your studies?
After graduation, I started my own business in the renewable energy sector in North Devon, which includes designing and installing Solar Photovoltaic Systems and battery storage and electrical charging points for domestic and industrial use.
Of course, the work experience opportunities provided invaluable insights into the practical application of classroom learning and what we did in the laboratory of experience and testing.
I chose this section as a completion of what I started learning through 91̽�� college from level 2 of electrical installation up to level 6 or the full degree of Integrated Technology Engineering.

What are your plans now that you have graduated?
Post-graduation is one of my plans, or the High Voltage qualifications might be another option. Or any further education or qualifications might be an option to develop my business and make it up-to-date, as we all know there is always something new with engineering, and never stop.

Any advice for someone thinking of choosing the same course as you?
Take advantage of all the amazing opportunities through our local University Center with 91̽��. Also, don’t hesitate to seek mentorship and guidance from Ph.D. and professionals in the engineering field to maximize your learning journey.
The demand for an engineering career is highly required, and you will find yourself in a field making and developing yourself and all the society around you.

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What made you pick this qualification?
With 25 years of senior management experience under my belt, I wanted to earn the credentials that would not only validate my experience but also enhance my earning potential. I’ve always been passionate about what I do, so it was important to me that my degrees were practical and directly applicable to my work. The idea of deepening my understanding of the educational side of business management was exciting. This qualification allowed me to combine my experience with formal education, making the learning process both relevant and enriching.

Why did you choose to come to the University Centre for Northern Devon?
The ability to pursue my degree right in my hometown without the need to travel to Exeter or Plymouth was a game-changer for me. It meant that I could fit my studies seamlessly into my life, balancing work, family, and education. This convenience made the hard work achievable and allowed me to fully commit to the course without the added stress of long commutes.
What were the highlights of your course/What did you most enjoy about studying at the University Centre?
Coming into the course with a wealth of experience, I felt confident in my abilities, but I wasn’t prepared for just how much I would grow and change as a person, even at the age of 40. One of the most surprising and transformative aspects of the course was learning about self-reflection and action research. Initially, I resisted the idea of self-reflection, but as I embraced it, I found it had a profound impact on my daily life. It has helped me become a better father, husband, and leader.
Another life-changing aspect was finally getting a diagnosis for dyslexia, something I had suspected for a long time. The support I received from the University Centre was incredible, and it has inspired me to become an advocate for others seeking a diagnosis. For my BA dissertation, I combined these experiences by using action research to highlight the importance of a diagnosis, in a project titled The Liberation of Diagnosis. These experiences were not just academic—they were deeply personal and transformative.

What does it mean to you now that you have gained these qualifications? Has it helped your career and/or your home life?
Gaining these qualifications has significantly boosted my confidence in my abilities, and I feel an immense sense of pride in what I’ve achieved. These degrees have opened doors that were previously out of reach for me. For instance, I’ve recently been shortlisted for interviews for roles, like a regional manager position, where I made it to the final two out of hundreds of applicants. Although I didn’t get the job, I know I wouldn’t have even been considered without my qualifications. Thanks to my new insights into self-reflection, I’ve been able to view the experience positively, as a valuable learning opportunity. I’m now looking at my future with renewed vigour and excitement, ready to take on new challenges.

In what way did your work experience support your course and chosen career?
Although I didn’t undertake traditional work experience as part of my course, I had the opportunity to apply what I was learning directly to my job. One of the most impactful projects I introduced at work was reflective appraisals, which turned out to be a big success. This practical application of my studies within a real work environment was extremely positive. It gave me the confidence to tackle challenges head-on and reinforced my belief that I could handle anything that came my way.
What are your future plans for your career or educational journey?
I’m currently applying for high-profile jobs and genuinely enjoying the process; thanks to the new confidence my degrees have given me. On top of that, I’ve enrolled in a master’s degree in HR, which I started in June. I’m absolutely loving it, and even though it’s a higher level of study, the skills and experience I gained at the University Centre have really helped me thrive. In fact, I’ve just received my best grade yet for an essay, which has been incredibly motivating. I’m excited to see where this journey takes me next, both in my career and in furthering my education.

Do you have any advice for anyone thinking of studying for a degree-level course?
My advice would be to go for it. The University Centre is fantastic at helping you overcome any obstacles that might come your way. Like anything worth doing, it’s tough in the beginning, but the rewards are immense and truly life changing. The key is to shift your mindset from “Can I do this?” to “I’m going to make this happen.” That change in attitude could be the catalyst that transforms your life, just as it did for me.

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What made you pick this particular course?
I chose this course because I had an interest in the field and I loved the look of the modules on this course.

What were the highlights?
I really enjoyed that the classes were small and the lecturers were amazing, it was such a chill environment. I loved the dissertation module too.
Did you undertake any work experience throughout your studies?
Yes, I did some volunteer work at a local school.

What’s the long-term plan?
I’m thinking about doing a masters in the future and spend some time working in an area of psychology soon.

Any advice for someone thinking of choosing the same course as you?
Go for it! I’d say complete work little but often and attend all your lectures!

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What made you pick this particular course?
This was the only engineering course on offer at the time.

What were the highlights?
I have really loved being able to improve on my engineering skills that I could apply at work, whilst making new friends. I exceeded my own expectations with the grade I got too!

What’s the long-term plan?
I want to further my career in engineering.

Any advice for someone thinking of choosing the same course as you?
Don’t leave coursework until the last minute!

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