BA (Hons) Applied Care Practice (Early Years) (Progression Route)

at University of Suffolk

The BA (Hons) Applied Care Practice (Early Years) Progression Route is relevant to practitioners working in Early Years, with children in care and education, and also to those who manage provision in the public, private and voluntary sectors. The applied nature of the degree provides theoretical knowledge along with practical application related to social care in contemporary society. The programme has been developed to allow those in the early years sector to further develop existing skills, and develop a broad range of practice skills, knowledge and understanding within key subject areas and to acquire and enhance their professional values, there is a particular focus on integrated practice. The programme has been specifically designed as a progression year for students successfully completing the Foundation degree in Early Years Practice with 240 credits at Level 5 but welcomes students with similar qualifications. Attendance is one day a week during term time and students are expected to be in paid or voluntary work in a relevant setting for at least 10 hours per week.
 

The course is delivered at University of Suffolk at Great Yarmouth where students will belong to a large and growing group of Higher Education students with their own dedicated facilities. Classrooms are brand new and equipped with technology. There is a higher education study/common room and access to a well-stocked library.
 

One of the key strengths of the programme is its recognition of the value and relevance of the students practice and professional experience to a shared development. It recognises that effective practice requires committed, enthusiastic and reflective practitioners who have a breadth and depth of knowledge, skills and understanding of working in education, health and social care. The programme encourages students to reflect on the skills required to establish and maintain good working relationships with both clients and families; to gain an understanding of the individual and diverse ways that we live; to extend their knowledge and understanding of their practice in order that they can actively support individuals; and to work effectively with families, carers, the wider community, and other professionals within and beyond the setting.
 

Relationships with employers are strong, some organisations actively encourage their staff to attend the Foundation degrees and have fully supported the development of the progression year.
 

Students should expect that achievement of this degree will enhance their career prospects and progression and will allow students to access postgraduate opportunities such as teaching (PGCE) or a Masters in Social Work for example. The course is also designed to enable students to move between sectors and to participate fully within integrated teams.