Leeds Beckett University - City Campus,
Woodhouse Lane,
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Bachelor of Arts with Honours Childhood Studies , Level 4, 2023/24 - Course Handbook
Welcome to the Course
This handbook provides you with information that you will need on your course. You should find it helpful when you first start, when you are preparing for assessment and at any time that you need help or advice in connection with your studies here. You will also receive a Module Handbook for each module you study on your course. The course team is looking forward to working with you this year and we hope that your time studying with us at Leeds Beckett University is both enjoyable and successful. On behalf of our University and the whole course team I would like to wish you well in your studies. Dr. Doug Martin Course Director - Childhood Studies (Acting)
Welcome to the Carnegie School of Education at Leeds Beckett University. It is my great pleasure to extend a warm welcome to each and every one of you as you embark on a new and exciting chapter of your academic journey. By studying with us, you are joining a thriving academic community with a proud heritage of education dating back to 1907. We believe in nurturing your intellectual curiosity, fostering critical thinking, and empowering you to become lifelong learners who will make a positive impact in our society.
As a School we are committed to making a positive difference in the lives of children, young people,families and communities. Our dedicated academic team are experts in their respective fields, and they are committed to providing you with a stimulating academic environment. They will guide you through rigorous coursework, encourage your creativity, and inspire you to achieve your highest potential.
We bring together the best of practice with high quality research and making sure our students enjoy an outstanding educational experience. Being part of a community also means that you will help to shape what we do, helping us to create knowledge and inform our curriculum to make sure we remain at the cutting edge of professional practice.
As well as helping you to develop academically, we are also committed to raising your employability, giving you the skills and experiences to make sure you can progress in the career of your choice. From dedicated careers advice to work-based assignments, from researching professional environments to creating your own enterprise, we provide support throughout your studies tailored to your ambitions.
As you navigate through your academic journey, it is important to maintain a balance between your studies and your individual well-being. Take care of yourself physically, mentally, and emotionally. Seek support from our dedicated student support services, connect with fellow students, and explore the many resources available to you. Remember, your holistic well-being is essential for your success, both academically and personally.
I encourage you to make the most of your time here at the Carnegie School of Education. Embrace challenges, grasp opportunities, and embrace the transformative power of education. Set ambitious goals, work hard, and believe in yourself.
Again, a warm welcome to the Carnegie School of Education, we are delighted to have you as part of our School, and we look forward to witnessing you continue our proud tradition of making a real difference.
Rachel Boyle, Dean of School
Leeds Beckett Students' Union (LBSU) is led by students for students! Their mission is to make your uni life better! Your Student Officer Team is elected by you to lead the Students' Union into the academic year. They represent all Leeds Beckett students and campaign for the changes you want to see in the university and beyond. They do this by representing your interests, giving you the chance to socialise and meet new people, hosting CV-boosting opportunities, and providing advice and support when you need it most. Shape your own experience by submitting your thoughts through your Course Rep, or if you'd like to influence the Students' Union's policy stance on particular issues or share ideas for improving the student experience across the University, submit your ideas on the Have Your Say platform, which is designed to make change happen! Below you'll find information on a few of their services but if you've any questions, please feel free to get in touch.
Silas Ozoya, your Academic Experience Officer, also wanted to say a few words to introduce himself: "Hey There! I'm Silas, your Academic Experience Officer. It's my job to ensure your academic experience at Leeds Beckett is the best it can be! We're a friendly and open-minded bunch at LBSU, so don't hesitate to get in touch with us! I'm looking forward to meeting you very soon!"
Contact LBSU at:
Email: lbsu-welcome@leedsbeckett.ac.uk
Phone: 0113 812 8400
Website: www.leedsbeckettsu.co.uk
- Following the lifting of all pandemic restrictions and advice from the Department for Education, we currently anticipate that no social distancing measures will be in place on campus during the 2023/24 academic year, enabling a normal on-campus experience. Our aim is to ensure that our students experience Leeds Beckett University, our courses, campuses, facilities and services to the fullest extent possible, while maintaining an environment where students and staff feel safe.
- In all cases, the health and safety of students and staff is our priority and we will continue to follow guidance from the UK Health Security Agency, the Department for Education and all other recognised government agencies (such as the Office for Students) in full and keep matters under close review at all times. The advice and restrictions may change before and/or during the academic year, either nationally or in response to local conditions and rates of infection and include the need for social distancing measures and other restrictions. Our flexible delivery model allows us to revert to a blended and/or remote delivery model if this becomes necessary. In a worst case scenario it is possible our campuses may need to close.
- In the event that delivery is restricted as a consequence of pandemic restrictions, we will keep you informed of planned changes as they arise, to ensure you are provided with accurate information.
Key Contacts & Keeping in Touch
Your Academic Advisor/personal tutor will be an academic member of staff who teaches you on your
course. Your Course Director will make sure that you are given the contact details of your
Academic Advisor/personal tutor at the beginning of each year, usually in your course induction. Further
details on the role of your Academic Advisor/personal tutor are available here:
www.leedsbeckett.ac.uk/studenthub/academic-advisor/.Course Representatives are student volunteers who represent your views at course-level, in course forums and in meetings with academic and support staff. Details about being a Course Representative are available at www.leedsbeckett.ac.uk/studenthub/course-representatives.htm. The Students' Union oversees Course Representatives and more information is available at https://www.leedsbeckettsu.co.uk/studentvoice/coursereps
Please contact them at: cselibrary@leedsbeckett.ac.uk
The contact details of other key services, such as Student Advice, Disability Advice, Student Wellbeing, the Library, Student Money, Careers, Students' Union Advice Service and Students' Union Student Voice Team can be found on the Students web page.
Academic and administrative staff at our University use your student email address to contact you. It is important that you check this account regularly. You can forward emails from your student email address to a preferred personal email address, however, quarantine and spam filters needed by our University mean that emails sent from external email addresses may be delayed, blocked or deleted. It is therefore important that your student email address is the only email address that you use to contact University staff. Information on how to access your student email address can be found on the Library Student IT Support page (http://libguides.leedsbeckett.ac.uk/it_support/office365/outlook)
Please make sure that you inform your Course Administration team whenever you change your address and contact details. It is important that you also update your records yourself. You can do this via the My Account/Update my Data tab on MyBeckett. This will ensure we can always contact you in an emergency, and that you receive any important University communications that we may need to send you.
We will inform you of class activities and course notifications, including any cancellations. We will aim to do this either via MyBeckett, your student email address or via a text to the mobile phone numbers on our contact records.
For each module, the Module Handbook will include the preferred method of communicating general information about that module to you.
MS Teams is part of the Office 365 suite used by staff and students for communication and collaboration:
- Access via MyBeckett on University devices as well as on personal mobiles via a free downloadable app.
- Participate in online meetings and video conferencing in groups or one-to-one.
- Work on shared content, ideas, projects and online learning.
- Utilise breakout rooms to create more dynamic sessions
Further information is available on the Library's MS Teams FAQ web page.
Your course team will advise how Skype for Business will be used on your course and make guidance available as required.
Timetable Information
The University’s standard term dates are available on our Academic Calendars web page.
Taught sessions, both mandatory and optional, will be scheduled and included in your online timetable. Depending on your course, this may also include scheduled online teaching and learning sessions where student engagement is required at a specified time or tutor pre-recorded lectures.
Normally, timetables will be made available to continuing students on 31st July and during induction week for new students via:
- The Student Portal (MyBeckett)
- The Leeds Beckett app
You should discuss any difficulties relating to your engagement with timetabled sessions with your Course Administrator.
Course Overview
The aims of the programme are to:
- Prepare students for graduate professional roles in a range of settings related to children'
- Engage students in creative and contemporary teaching and learning that is informed by different academic disciplines, research and professional perspectives related to childhood and youth.
- Engage students with developing ideas and approaches in the context of social change, social justice and children's rights.
- Enhance student commitment to child centred practice and equality to enable them to act in the best interests of children'
- Develop reflective, critically informed and confident professionals with the relevant academic skills to be able to question and enhance childhood practice.
1. Be ready to enter graduate employment or further postgraduate study, and make a positive contribution to services for children.
2. Demonstrate extensive knowledge of contemporary ideas which reflect a multi-disciplinary approach to childhood, including relevant policies and services.
3. Demonstrate critical analysis of complex issues, and reflect upon a value-position based on social justice and a commitment to child rights within a global context.
4. Confidently use their knowledge, professional skills and personal attributes to promote equality and child-centred practice.
5. Demonstrate university-level study skills such as consistent academic writing, research skills, confident use and critical analysis of literature and digital sources, presentation and reflection to develop effective practice within a graduate career pathway with or for children.
- Demonstrate knowledge of key ideas related to childhood, underpinned by the disciplines of sociology, social policy, psychology and human development.
- Demonstrate the development of university-level study skills such as academic writing, summarising and presenting ideas clearly and articulately, within the context of using digital technology.
- Demonstrate awareness of multiple perspectives on an issue, and show they are beginning to develop a value system based on equality and anti-discrimination within a global context.
- Articulate positive aspects of services and provision for children and describe key arguments in relation to children's rights and social justice.
- Recognise that some complex problems related to childhood will require innovative approaches, in an effort to find solutions.
Assessment & Feedback
Level 4 is assessed by coursework.
Level 5 is assessed by coursework.
Level 6 is assessed by coursework
Please note the exam/assessment periods in the academic calendar and make sure that you are available during those periods. Coursework submission deadlines can normally be found on MyBeckett, on course noticeboards or in individual Module Handbooks/other module guides.
Disabled students requiring adjustments to assessments/examinations should contact Disability Advice as soon as possible. We can only guarantee that adjustments can be put in place if students have contacted us by the following deadlines:
Semester 1 - 10th November 2023
Semester 2 - 8th March 2024
Contact us:
Email: disabilityadvice@leedsbeckett.ac.uk
Tel: 0113 812 5831
Website: https://www.leedsbeckett.ac.uk/student-information/disability-advice/
It is important for your progression and achievement that you submit all work for all assignments in a timely manner. It is also important that you keep copies of all work submitted until after you have graduated. You should also keep any receipts confirming the submission of assignments. In the event of your submitted work being lost you may be required to produce a copy of the work and submission receipt. If you are unable to do so, your work will not be marked.
It is important to note that submitting all assignments is a requirement of your course. Should you experience extenuating circumstances which prevent you from submitting on time please make yourself aware of the Mitigation and Extenuating Circumstances process. Without any form of extenuating circumstances, standard penalties apply for late submission of assessed work. Full details of the penalties for late submission of course work are available in section 3 of the Academic Regulations at https://www.leedsbeckett.ac.uk/our-university/public-information/academic-regulations/. Please check the penalties that apply to this course as some Professional, Statutory and Regulatory Body requirements may mean that different penalties apply.
If you have been recommended 'flexibility around deadlines' as a reasonable adjustment in a Reasonable Adjustment Plan, your Course Administrator will be able to advise you of the process.
You may be required to submit your written work via Turnitin; further information on Turnitin is available here: http://libguides.leedsbeckett.ac.uk/mybeckett/turnitin
Assessed work will normally be returned with appropriate feedback within four weeks of your submission. Each Module Handbook will provide you with specific guidelines on how and when you will receive feedback on your assessments.
Assessment is at the core of formal higher education and there are two types of assessment with which students are expected to engage. The goal of formative assessment is to monitor student learning. Formative assessments are low-stakes and aim to:
- help students identify their own strengths and weaknesses and target any areas that need work
- help lecturers recognise and address problems immediately
Lecturers will use different tools to assess each student's emerging grasp of the module material and the exact nature of their difficulties, misconceptions and learning gaps along the way. Lecturers might question students about their work-in-progress or asked them to prepare discussion points as groups or individuals so they can receive comments from lecturers and other students. Lecturers might also host online discussion forums for students to share information with their peers and discuss module topics. Lecturers might also host a weekly 'Open Door time' which provides opportunity to speak to the lecturer informally about progress, assignment plans, or clarify any tricky areas with the module material. Other methods of formative assessment include: peer and self-assessment against rubrics, quizzes, keeping reading records, drawing a concept map, peer teaching, comparing a 'model' answer to the assessment criteria. Engaging in formative assessment opportunities will mould students' thinking to be more focused and intended outcome oriented by the time they come to prepare and submit their summative assignment. While formative assessment is designed to enrich students' learning, it will not benefit all students if they do not fulfil their responsibility to learn.
In contrast, summative assessment 'sums up' what a student has achieved at the end of a module. This is the final 'high stakes' assessment which measures how well the student has met the learning outcomes of the module. Summative assessments are formally graded and can take many forms including traditional essays, portfolios, reflective logs and presentations.
Results from module assessments and decisions on progression to the next level of study (e.g., from Level 4 to Level 5 of an undergraduate degree) or awards (if you are in the final level) are available on the Results Online system: https://www.leedsbeckett.ac.uk/studenthub/results-online/.
Results will appear within Results Online five working days after the date of the Progression and Award Board meeting (the meeting where your end of level outcome will be decided) or the Module Board meeting (the meeting where modular outcomes are decided).
If you are unsure about when you might receive your results or have queries relating to your results, you should contact your Course Administrator.
The University recognises that, from time to time, students may encounter issues which may prevent them from being able to submit or take assessment. Where this is the case, students may be able to submit their 'extenuating circumstances' for consideration. Please see the Mitigation and Extenuating Circumstances web page for further information.
If you have not passed a module at the first attempt you will be eligible for re-assessment. See your Module Handbook for details of the relevant re-assessment process (e.g., whether it is coursework, an examination, a presentation or other form of assessment/when it will take place/what the deadline is). You will be advised via Results Online of your options for re-assessment. You are advised to contact your Course Director, Course Administrator or Academic Advisor for any necessary clarification.
Details about our Appeals process can be found on the appeals web page.
Academic integrity means intellectual honesty and is part of good academic practice. Further information can be found on our academic integrity web page.
Teaching & Learning
Learning opportunities are provided through a variety of activities, including tutor led lectures, guest lectures, student-led seminars, tutor-led seminars, tutorials, self-directed learning tasks, and a virtual learning environment. Specialist bespoke study skills support is embedded into the programme and delivered by the expert subject librarian. The combination of learning activities from a variety of specialised staff, as well as access to excellent teaching facilities provides an outstanding and varied learning environment suited to achieving the programme aims and learning outcomes. The virtual learning environment (currently called MyBeckett) enhances this contact through supplementary material and other forms of engagement.
These activities fulfil the requirement of the principle of developing "An Inclusive Environment" as set out in the Course Development Principles handbook by being non-discriminatory, appropriate to the needs of individual learners, and transparent. For example:
- Materials used reflect perspectives and experiences of marginalised groups.
- An environment is encouraged where students can air their views and explore those of others with confidence and security.
- Reasonable adjustments are made in response to different learning needs.
- Critical thinking and academic reading exercises are required to challenge 'common sense' assumptions.
Level 4 Core Modules
Diverse Childhoods
The Academic Self
Developmental Psychology
Children's Rights & Entitlements
The Sociology of Childhood
Level 5 Core Modules
Social Inequality & Social Policy
The Professional Self
Philosophy & Childhood
Researching Childhood
Level 5 Option Modules
The following option modules are indicative of a typical year. There may be some variance in the availability of option modules
You will select one module from the following:
Child Wellbeing & Family Support
Issues in Early Childhood
Level 6 Core Modules
The Graduate Self
Major Independent Study
Level 6 Option Modules (delivery years as per Level 6 core modules above)
The following option modules are indicative of a typical year. There may be some variance in the availability of option modules
One professional pathway option module from the following:
- Black / White Mixed-Race Lives: Identity, Childhood & Schooling
- Children, Crime and Social Justice
- Working with Vulnerable Families
One professional pathway option module from the following:
- Health Promotion
- Children's Counselling, Coaching & Mentoring
Overall Workload | Level 4 | Level 5 | Level 6 |
Teaching, Learning and Assessment | 216 hours | 216 hours | 216 hours |
Independent Study | 924 hours | 894 hours | 864 hours |
Placement | 60 hours | 90 hours | 120 hours |
A standard module equates to 200 notional learning hours, comprising teaching, learning and assessment, placement activities and independent study. The notional hours are exceeded on this course due to placement hours requirements.
Details of School academic staff can be found on the Carnegie School of Education Website.
Attendance & Absence
The University expects you to attend and contribute fully to all mandatory sessions on your timetable as set out in your student contract. Engagement in your lectures, seminars and practicals is an important part of your learning - contributing both to the University community and the learning experience of your fellow students on the course. This includes engagement in scheduled virtual learning and activities and meetings in online environments related to your studies.
We monitor your engagement at the University as regular attendance and academic achievement are closely linked. Moreover, by monitoring your engagement and attendance we can identify students who may need our guidance or support at an early stage to help them progress in their studies. This is part of our commitment to ensuring an excellent education and experience and supporting your success at Leeds Beckett.
The University does understand that from time to time there is good reason why you cannot attend a class, and in this instance you must contact your School office to let them know. This may then be recorded as an 'authorised absence'.
Please note that any attendance reports can be shared with you and your Course team. You might be asked to contact your School office so that appropriate academic or pastoral support can be offered, should your attendance record give cause for concern.
Our most important aim is to support your studies, but we are also required to report attendance to various external bodies such as the Student Loan Company and the Home Office. There are measures in place for students who seek to falsely register either their own or fellow students' attendance.
Our Academic Engagement Policy is available under 'Student Contract' on the Student Regulations web page.
Please note that if your course carries professional accreditation or recognition, there may be additional course-specific attendance requirements detailed elsewhere in this handbook.
You must notify your Course Administrator if you are absent (for example for an interview, emergency unforeseen circumstances, or for compassionate leave). If you are going to apply for mitigation you will need to provide written evidence of the reason for your absence.
Please note that if your course carries professional accreditation or recognition, there may be additional course-specific absence reporting requirements detailed elsewhere in this handbook.
If you are unable to study due to Covid-19 (coronavirus) symptoms, please see the guidance available on our Covid-19 web page.
If you are unable to study because of another illness for more than 14 consecutive days (including weekends), you must provide us with a Fit Note.
You can send a digital copy of your Fit Note to your Course Administrator, and then send the original by post.
If you are absent through illness on the day of an examination or assignment deadline and you intend to apply for mitigation, you must also provide us with details as possible. Your submission for mitigation may be made online and the circumstances surrounding it may be self-certified unless your period of absence is prolonged. Generally, all absences of 2 weeks or more will require the submission of verifiable documentary evidence.
For more information on 'fit to sit' and mitigation please visit our Mitigation web page.
Please note that if your course carries professional accreditation or recognition, there may be additional course-specific absence reporting requirements detailed elsewhere in this handbook.
Any Leeds Beckett student who suspects they may have, or have been diagnosed as having a serious infectious disease such as coronavirus, Mumps, TB, measles, meningitis or chicken pox should not attend campus. For notifiable diseases, students should notify their Course Director or Course Administrator as soon as possible giving information regarding which groups of students (and/or colleagues and clients on placements) you have been in contact with and when. For some diseases, such as TB and meningitis, your doctor and our Student Wellbeing Team have a responsibility to notify the West Yorkshire Public Health Protection Team who may also wish to speak to you (or your family) to determine if others require screening or medication. You should follow advice given by the hospital or your GP about when it is safe to return to University. Further information is available on the Student Wellbeing web page.
For guidance on what to do if you have symptoms of Covid-19 (coronavirus), please visit our Covid-19 web page.
If you are thinking about changing course or withdrawing from your course, further information can be found on our Student web pages.
International Students
Please be aware that our University fully complies with United Kingdom Visas and Immigration (UKVI) policy at all times. There are legal reporting requirements for all students in the UK on a Student visa, and full attendance is mandatory for all students who have a Student visa. Failure to meet UKVI attendance and engagement requirements could lead to your academic sponsorship being withdrawn and your visa being revoked.Students who hold a Student visa need to be aware of their responsibilities whilst in the UK, please see www.ukcisa.org.uk or our Student Immigration Advice and Compliance web page for full information.
For up-to-date information about visas, immigration issues and other matters relating to international students, please visit the International Students' web pages on the Students website or email the Student Immigration Advice and Compliance Team on siac@leedsbeckett.ac.uk.
You should have been enrolled on the International Student's Academic Introduction module in MyBeckett when you began your studies - if you missed this you can self-enrol and explore the content which introduces you to making the academic transition to a UK university. Please refer to Library page supporting international students
'In Year' Work Placement Information
Leeds Beckett is dedicated to improving the employability of our students and one of the ways in which we do this is to support our students to gain valuable work experience through work-based placements. Our placement teams have developed strong links with companies and public services, many of whom repeatedly recruit our students into excellent placement roles and the teams are dedicated to supporting students through every stage of the placement process. More information about the many benefits of undertaking a work placement, along with details about how to contact our placement teams may be found here.
60 hours at level 4, 90 hours as level 5 and 120 hours at level 6.
Students arranges in partnership with the course team and our placement office, a placement in each year that fulfils the requirement of the course and the assessments associated with it but also supports the student with their personal and professional development.
Leeds Beckett is dedicated to improving the employability of our students and one of the ways in which we do this is to support our students to gain valuable work experience through work-based placements. Our placement teams have developed strong links with companies, many of whom repeatedly recruit our students into excellent placement roles and the teams are dedicated to supporting students through every stage of the placement process. More information about the many benefits of undertaking a work placement, along with details about how to contact our placement teams may be found here.
Skills, Employability & Graduate Opportunities
- Communication and interpersonal skills
- Academic writing and presentation skills
- Creativity
- Critical / evaluative thinking and analytical skills
- IT skills
- Leadership and project management
- Logical thinking and reasoning.
- Numeracy
- Organisational skills (e.g. working independently, taking initiative, time-management)
- Problem solving
- Project management
- Report writing
- Research skills
- Teamwork and taking on responsibility
You will have opportunities to gain recognition during your time at Leeds Beckett University for the extra activities you do in addition to your studies, including volunteering, student societies, playing in our University sports teams and being a Course Representative.
By joining a society with Leeds Beckett Students' Union, you can make new friends, have fun, try something new and enhance your CV - societies provide a great opportunity to learn new skills and improve your existing ones. It can be difficult to get to know new people at university but don't worry, everyone is in the same boat! Our Leeds Beckett Students' Union believe that joining a student-led society is the best way to meet new people and make lifelong friends. There are so many societies out there - from course-based to hobby-based to religious to political and campaigning. Whether you're just starting out at Leeds Beckett or working on your last year of study, it is never too late to find the right society for you - or start one yourself!
Course-based societies are a great way to meet people on your course, expand your networks and celebrate your achievements together such as end of year Society Balls. If you have a great idea for a society, we can help you get it up and running. There are resources and support available for all societies - including funding to help make your society goals a reality. For more information on starting your own society, visit: leedsbeckettsu.co.uk/societies/create.
There are three Graduate Attributes for Leeds Beckett University and these are tailored to suit your course. The three attributes you should achieve by the end of the course are for you to be digitally literate, have a global outlook and for you to be enterprising. Learning about these attributes and being assessed on them as part of your modules will provide you with capabilities which are essential for your future career and wider life as you move on from your studies here. You will be formally assessed on all the attributes in some of your modules at each academic level in each year of your course. For more information on graduate attributes please visit https://www.leedsbeckett.ac.uk/studenthub/graduate-attributes/
Information on your assessment is included in your Module Handbooks.
For Being Digitally Literate, students are encouraged to embrace digital technologies to research and present their work. They are supported in developing a high level of competence in using this technology, and engaging critically with sources of information so they are able to make informed judgements regarding the reliability and validity of these sources. For example, at Level 4, The Sociology of Childhood module introduces students to gathering and analysing images relating to children and childhood using digital tools. At Level 5, this is expanded, particularly during the Researching Childhood module, where students use more advanced digital tools such as online journal searching to locate complex literature and make judgements about the quality of the material. At Level 6, the Major Independent Study augments these skills further by supporting students using a variety of digital means (including ICT, digital recorders etc.) to plan and execute a complex research project, grounded in academic literature sourced and critiqued using online searching.
For Having a Global Outlook, three key areas related to a Global Outlook (inter-cultural awareness, international perspectives, and application in practice) are all represented on the course. For inter-cultural awareness, overseas (both EU and non-EU) students are encouraged onto the course for both the whole duration of the degree, or for part of the course, for example students completing an academic exchange under the Erasmus programme. Recently, the course has welcomed students from, for instance, China, Cyprus, Gibraltar, Belgium, Norway, Finland and Poland. In addition, home students are encouraged to consider engaging in 'study abroad' opportunities with institutions with which we have formal partnerships, and a number have done so in the United States of America and Australia. Students are encouraged, where appropriate, to undertake their work-related learning experiences in an international setting, and students on the course have taken advantage of international volunteering opportunities with children, including projects in India, Brazil, Ethiopia and Romania.
International perspectives are represented through course modules which underpin a commitment to developing a Global Outlook as they consider the global contexts of childhood and children's lives and challenge some traditionally held 'western' views. Students are encouraged to critically analyse the traditions, policies and practices in the United Kingdom and the 'west' in an effort to make the familiar 'unfamiliar', thereby perceiving other cultures in new and different ways. In Diverse Childhoods for instance, we observe the first year of a baby's life in diverse locations such as Tokyo, Namibia, Mongolia and San Francisco. In Philosophy and Childhood, we use the Sapir-Whorf hypothesis to understand the connection between language, thought and meaning: does language shape the way a child thinks about the world?
For Being Enterprising, the employment spine of modules at L4, L5 and L6 provides significant opportunities for students to direct their own learning in an area of their interest and to apply their critical understanding of the concepts, themes and perspectives covered in modules in a 'real world' setting. In the first year, students work with the placement team to identify and secure a placement in an area of interest. This is about students showing initiative and actively working towards their goals by proactively seeking out opportunities such as working as a volunteer counsellor for the NSPCC to training as a magistrate with a view to hearing cases at a family court. In The Academic Self module, students are encouraged to use their developing skills to analyse the workings of their placement setting 'in the round' so as to fully understand their complexities in an effort to seek and develop creative solutions to problems.
In the second year, students must apply for a professional pathway in The Professional Self module and work in teams of ten to design, plan and execute a Legacy Project- something which adds something positive (either directly or indirectly) to the lives of children, young people and families. Working as a team of students within a professional organisation, they will (depending on the project) gain experience of running a project to a schedule, identifying problems and implanting solutions, budget management, project management skills, etc. The Legacy Projects are therefore very diverse but have added a bit of information about 'typical' Legacy projects students might design and work on:
- Building a sensory garden for a specialist SEN school. Students and staff within the school might have identified the need for a stimulating space for learning so our students would turn this into their Legacy Project. They would be responsible for researching the resources needed- choosing the right plants and materials (in this case, they would think about selecting plants and materials to evoke touch, smell, hearing, taste and sight). They might then raise money, buy the materials, build the garden with the children, and assess its success using a model of their choosing.
- Start a Film Club at a Sure Start Children's Centre. One of the workers at Sure Start says that they have a high proportion of Single Mothers who come in for support. She has noticed that many feel lonely and lack confidence. The students working in this setting might therefore set up a Film Club as a fun, open way to engage with these mothers and build trust- they would screen films based on the theme of mothering and design questions/activities to start supportive conversations.
In The Graduate Self module, students undertake their final placement and are preparing to progress into a diverse range of professions including teaching, social work, counselling, occupational therapy, and graduate leadership programmes. In this module, being enterprising is about putting their skills into action, seizing the opportunities that present themselves, adapting to challenges and actively working towards their graduate goal. In addition, students' sense of worth and self-esteem is enhanced to give them confidence and resilience in tackling obstacles and attempting new ideas and practices.
All students are encouraged to take up volunteering opportunities or paid work in areas related to childhood, and the opportunities afforded by the volunteering team are highlighted during induction week.
The vocational experience completed throughout the employability modules embedded throughout the course provides a flexible environment in which students can begin to formally link theory to practice. An integral part of this is the onus placed on students to plan, approach, organise and confirm their workplace experience with appropriate support from university staff and the placement office. Links made with external organisations provide the University with industry specific feedback on the quality, direction and appropriateness of student learning offered on the course and a continuous view of current workplace codes of practice associated with careers chosen by future graduates. The assessment task related to this vocational experience encompasses deep reflection on the experience, including how course learning relates to the world of work, issues such as 'professional power' and the relationship between the child and the 'institution' of the workplace.
Placement or Work-Related Activity Level: The Work-Related Learning Experience is undertaken at all levels throughout the course.
Placement or Work-Related Activity Length in Weeks: Level Four: 60 hours across both semesters Level Five: 90 hours across both semesters Level Six: 120 hours across both semesters
Type of Placement or Work-Related Activity: Students will complete work placements in every year on the degree which provide an excellent opportunity for students to gain valuable experience of working for or with children which, in turn, makes students much more employable after graduating. Students will work with the Carnegie School of Education Placement Office who have a wealth of experience in supporting undergraduate students and have developed excellent links in a variety of sectors with a range of employers, including local authorities, local and national charities, state and independent schools, nurseries, health authorities, museums, art galleries and similar institutions. Work placements form an integral component of the employment spine of modules at L4, L5 and L6 where each student will build a portfolio of evidence needed for their final assessment. Each student is allocated an Academic Advisor who works closely with them throughout the year to provide guidance and help the student set appropriate targets.
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Childhood Studies graduates have used their degree as an excellent foundation for diverse careers, including:
- Children's nurse
- Early years teacher
- Primary school teacher
- Secondary school teacher (students on our degree have gone on to qualify and work as English teachers and Psychology and Sociology teachers)
- Educational psychologist
- Social worker
- Speech and language therapist
- Art therapist
- Child and adolescent psychotherapist
- Children's home residential practitioner
- Occupational therapist
- Police detective
- Prison officer
Learning Support
If you have a question or a problem relating to your course, your Course Administrator is there to help you. Course Administrators work closely with academic staff and can make referrals to teaching staff or to specialist professional services as appropriate. They can give you a confirmation of attendance letter, and a transcript. You may also like to contact your Course Rep or the Students' Union Advice team for additional support with course-related questions.
Your Academic Advisor will be an academic member of staff who teaches you on your course. Your Course Director will make sure that you are given the contact details of your Academic Advisor at the beginning of each year, usually in your course induction. Further details on the role of your Academic Advisor are available on the Academic Advisor web page.
If you need support, but you're not sure where to go, your Student Advice Team are here to help. The team are an essential part of your Student Support Network and are dedicated to ensuring you can access the advice and support you need, when you need it most.
Student Advice can also help in the practical elements of university. The team will produce your first campus card and assist you in replacing your campus card if needed throughout your time at Leeds Beckett. They can provide Confirmation of Enrolment and Bank Letters for our current students and full or partial transcripts for our graduates and fully enrolled students.
If you need help with more complex queries or concerns, our trained Student Life Advisers offer 1-1 appointments, providing a safe, confidential, and non-judgemental space to talk about your circumstances and identify support that you can access both within and outside of the university.
To contact the team, or to arrange an appointment, visit The Student Advice webpage for full details.
The Student Voice & Insight team at LBSU works alongside the elected Academic Experience Officer to effectively represent students' academic interests.
We provide support, training and ongoing development to over 1,000 Course Representatives, Postgraduate Research Reps, Student Community Leaders and Global Majority Student Ambassadors who represent you whilst you study at Leeds Beckett; and facilitate the collection of student feedback on your academic experience.
Unsure who your Course Rep is? Maybe you're interested in becoming a Course Rep or have feedback about your academic experience? Get in touch at:
- Email: studentvoice@leedsbeckett.ac.uk
- Telephone: 0113 812 8400
- Website: leedsbeckettsu.co.uk/your-voice
You can find information and resources online through the Support and Opportunities tabs in MyBeckett. In the Support tab, you can find details of a range of services that provide academic and personal support. These include Student Advice, Library Services, the Students' Union, Student Money, Disability Advice, Student Wellbeing, Student Immigration Advice and Compliance and Accommodation. There is also an A-Z of Support Services, and access to online appointments/registration.
In the Opportunities tab, you can explore the options you have for jobs, work placements, volunteering, and a wide range of other opportunities. For example, you can find out here how to get help with your CV, prepare for an interview, get a part-time job or a voluntary role, take part in an international project, or join societies closer to home.
If you have a disability, long-term physical or mental health condition, or a specific learning difference, we believe this should never be a barrier to studying at our University.
Please get in touch with us as soon as possible so we can ensure everything is in place before your course starts.
What should I do next?
- We will ask you to provide evidence of your disability, usually from a health professional or educational psychologist. Don't worry if you haven't got any, we can support you with this.
- Usually, we will arrange an appointment with your Disability Adviser to discuss any adjustments you might need and support you in applying for Disabled Students' Allowances (DSA).
- We will work with you to ensure any adjustments you need are available so you can fully participate on your course.
Please watch this short video about how the Disability Advice Team can work with you.
Disabled students can also access the Disability Resource Areas in each library and the support provided by the Library Learning Support Officer. More information is available on the Library website.
What is Disabled Students' Allowance (DSA)?
DSA is government funding to help with the cost of any additional support you might need while studying, such as: one-to-one support, specialist equipment (including useful software) and travel. For more information visit our website.
Contact Us:
Email: disabilityadvice@leedsbeckett.ac.uk
Tel: 0113 812 5831
Website: https://www.leedsbeckett.ac.uk/student-information/disability-advice/
The Library
The Library offers 24/7 support for your studies. You can access thousands of resources via MyBeckett or the Library website which also provides full details of all our services.
Library Academic Support
The Library Academic Support Team can help you develop your academic skills such as critical thinking, academic writing and analysing data, and research skills such as how to find, use and evaluate information for your studies. The team liaises with your lecturers to provide the information resources you need for your subject and to arrange academic skills sessions to support you in your studies.
The team maintains a number of websites and modules to support your learning:
- In your Subject guide, you'll find a variety of information resources which have been selected as a good starting point for research in that area. These are available on the Skills and Subject Support web page or via My Beckett.
- On the Skills for Learning website, you'll find online resources covering topics such as essay writing, research and time management, English Language and academic English plus information to help you reference and avoid plagiarism, alongside details of workshops that are designed to help you succeed in your assessments. The Skills for Learning website can be found on the Library website or via My Beckett.
- LBU Study Smart is a module in MyBeckett which introduces you to the key skills and services you'll need to study successfully at Leeds Beckett. There are also additional modules you can take as you move through your course to help you transition between study levels. The Academic Integrity Tutorial is a module in MyBeckett which introduces you to academic integrity at LBU and will help you develop the skills you need to attain good academic practice, including avoiding plagiarism and academic referencing.
- The Academic Integrity Tutorial is a module in MyBeckett which introduces you to academic integrity at LBU and will help you develop the skills you need to attain good academic practice, including avoiding plagiarism and academic referencing.
Library and Student IT Advice Service
The Library and Student IT Advice Service team can answer your queries on borrowing, finding information, passwords, multi-factor authentication (MFA) ,Office 365, online meetings, saving your work, MyBeckett and more:
- online (including 24/7 chat) via the Contact Us web page
- by phone - 0113 812 1000 (24/7 IT support)
- face-to-face in either of our Libraries, check Library opening times for details of when staff are available
They also have a wide range of short tutorials available on the Library's YouTube channel.
Wi-Fi
Wi-Fi on the University campus is provided by eduroam, a secure wireless network, which also allows you Wi-Fi access if you visit other universities. To connect:
- Select eduroam from available Wi-Fi
- Your login details are:
Username followed by @leedsbeckett: e.g. c1234567@leedsbeckett.ac.uk
Password: your normal university password
*Android Users: Select under Phase 2 Authentication - MS-CHAPv2
Help is available on the Library's Wi-Fi web page.
Microsoft Office 365
You are provided with free access to Office 365 and the latest version of Office can be downloaded from the IT tab in MyBeckett or from office.com. All students who are registered for a qualification at Leeds Beckett University are eligible and you can use the subscription for the duration of your course. For instructions and more information, please see the Office 365 support page.
OneDrive
OneDrive Leeds Beckett is your individual file storage with 1TB of storage space. With OneDrive you can access and share your files across your devices. This is accessible on University PCs and off-campus through Office 365 portal. See the Saving your Work pages on the Library website for more information.
Leeds Beckett RemoteApp
The Leeds Beckett RemoteApp gives you access to a range of specialist software for your course on your personal devices. See the RemoteApp page on the Library website for more information.
Media Equipment - free loans
You can borrow high-end Media Equipment for free. Browse, reserve and collect equipment ranging from GoPros to Remote Presenters from the ground floor of the Shelia Silver and Headingley Libraries. Further information is available on the Media Equipment web page.
University life can have its ups and downs, and occasionally you may find yourself in need of advice. That's where we come in. Here at the SU we have a free advice service that is here just for you, the students at Leeds Beckett University.
The Advice Service at LBSU is a confidential, non-judgmental service run by professional advisers.
The service is independent from the University, so if you are having any problems with your course you can talk confidentially with us - although we do work with the University to find the best solutions, we would only contact them with your permission. We can advise on a range of topics including all aspects of the University Regulations and Procedures, housing issues and finance issues. We can guide you through any processes or procedures.
We're here to help you with any questions or problems you might have while you are studying at Leeds Beckett.
Get more information at www.leedsbeckettsu.co.uk/advice.
Resources
MyBeckett, the portal and virtual learning environment provides:
- access to your modules and timetables;
- your reading lists and email account;
- your personal storage area on our University IT servers;
- information on where to look for academic or personal support (Support tab);
- information on opportunities such as jobs, careers, part-time work, placements and volunteering (Opportunities tab)
- access to Library and student IT advice
Further information and support for using MyBeckett can be found on the MyBeckett Support Pages.
The resources for each module of study can be found inside each module handbook.
Student Voice
We are committed to working in partnership with you and the Students' Union to provide you with an inclusive, safe and engaging learning environment which is conducive to study for all our students and our staff. An important element of your time studying with us is your engagement in developing your learning. Your engagement and attendance on your course enables you to further your learning and supports your achievement, course completion and aspirations for the future. There is an expectation that students will attend, engage in their learning and submit on time for assessment. We provide support for you to maximise your time studying with us and to develop your learning, skills and abilities to support you in your chosen career path.
We seek active participation by all our students in the continuous enhancement of our courses and through our monitoring, annual review and enhancement processes. These are formal processes used by our University for assuring the academic standards and quality of your course and its continuous improvement. These processes utilise your feedback, External Examiners' reports, feedback from staff and others, data relating to student outcomes on the course and student surveys to reflect on areas of good practice and areas for further enhancement. We invite all students to participate in a range of opportunities to provide us with feedback on your course and modules. This may include discussions with staff, focus groups, and meetings (e.g. with Course Representatives or with staff) and formalised student surveys e.g. mid module reviews, end of module evaluations and specific course or other surveys such as the Student Barometer, National Student Survey and Graduate Outcomes Survey. We utilise the outcomes of these surveys to benchmark our courses nationally and to inform annual course enhancements.
Informal feedback is also welcome at any time either via your Academic Advisor or module tutor or via your Course Representative. Our partnership with you enables us together to make the most of your learning experience with us and to enhance the quality and reputation of your course. You can find out what actions have been taken in response to your feedback through your Course Representative, the Students' Union, your tutors or through the Library.
Course Representatives (Reps) at undergraduate and postgraduate taught levels are student volunteers who represent you in formal and informal meetings with the University, and follow up on actions that have occurred because of student feedback. You can become a Course Rep, volunteering to represent the views of your peers in order to improve students' academic experience.
In the first few weeks of your time at Leeds Beckett, your Course Director will facilitate an opportunity to appoint Course Reps on your course.
LBSU provides support, training and ongoing development for Course Reps and supports their engagement in enhancement activities throughout the academic year.
Being a Course Rep provides you with an opportunity to enhance your own learning and the development of relevant professional and employability skills alongside your studies. As a Course Rep you would play an important role in:
- Acting as a point of contact and advocate for students on your course and in supporting their active engagement.
- Gathering feedback from students on your course to inform enhancements to the quality of your course and the student experience.
- Facilitating good communication between students and staff on the course.
- Working with the Course Director, members of the course team and the Students' Union to enhance your course.
- Facilitating and engaging in meetings about your course; and
- Being an ambassador for your course.
Further information about being a Course Representative is available at:
We invite all students to participate in a range of opportunities to provide us with feedback on your course and modules. This may include discussions with staff, focus groups, and meetings (e.g. with Course Representatives or with staff) and formalised student surveys e.g. mid module reviews, end of module evaluations and specific course or other surveys such as the Student Barometer, National Student Survey and the Graduate Outcomes Survey.
We are committed to providing a high quality experience for all our students. We welcome comments and compliments from students, and find them valuable for on-going improvements to our provision. Comments and compliments about your course can be raised with your Course Representative or directly with your Course Director or Academic Advisor.
If you have a specific complaint about an act or omission of our University, you may be able to make a complaint under the Student Complaints Procedure. In the first instance, you should raise the matter as soon as possible with the member of staff most directly concerned, or with the person who can best resolve it. If this does not resolve the matter, or if the complaint is too serious to be addressed in this way, then you should make a formal complaint in writing. Information about how to make a complaint, including the student complaints procedure and a complaints form, is available on the Students web pages.
General Information
Bachelor of Arts Childhood Studies
Diploma of Higher Education Childhood Studies
Certificate of Higher Education Childhood Studies
Leeds Beckett University
Level 6 of the Framework for Higher Education Qualifications, with 120 credit points at each of Levels 4, 5 and 6 of the UK Credit Framework for Higher Education (360 credits in total)
Part-time delivery is usually at half the intensity of the FT equivalent course, although there may be flexibility to increase your pace of study to shorten the overall course duration. Some modules may be delivered in a different sequence to that defined within this information set, but the modules offered within each level are consistent.
Course fees and additional course costs are confirmed in your offer letter. Course fees are presented to you annually through the online enrolment process. Please visit our Course and Tuition Fees Payment web pages for further information. Ongoing queries relating to additional course costs may be discussed with your Course Administrator.
Alternatively, you can contact any of the following teams:
For Student Finance related fee queries: studentfunding@leedsbeckett.ac.uk
Other fee related queries: fees@leedsbeckett.ac.uk
Payments: incomes@leedsbeckett.ac.uk
Policies, Standards & Regulations
Key University regulations and policies can be accessed on the following web pages:
- Academic Regulations (including assessment regulations) are available on our Academic Regulations web page
- The Student Contract is available on our Student Regulations web page
- The Student Charter is available on our Academic Regulations web page (Section 20)
Other Student regulations and University policies, including Safety, Health and Wellbeing policies, are available on our Student Regulations web page
You should also familiarise yourself with Support Report Respect where students and colleagues who are victims of any form of bullying, harassment or sexual misconduct, can access support, advice and guidance.
For advice on University regulations and policies, students should contact the Students' Union Advice Service.
There are no additional or non-standard regulations which relate to your course.
The External Examiner assures that you are assessed fairly in relation to other students on the same course and also that the standard of your own award is comparable to similar courses taken by students in other higher education institutions within the UK. The External Examiner(s) provide an annual report for your course. External Examiner reports are available on our External Examiner Reports web page, which is accessible via the Course Information link on the Students home page.
The details of the External Examiner for this course are as follows:
Michael Dessington
Head of Teaching, Scholarship and Excellence
University Campus, Oldham
AND
Dr Louise Kay
Lecturer in Education
University of Sheffield
Appendices
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