Make a real difference to the lives of children and their families on a degree course that combines up-to-the-minute theory with practical experience, providing you with a thorough understanding of the needs of children and young people in a digital age. Start by exploring child development and child welfare as well as the social policies and legislation surrounding it before choosing from specialist options, such as mental health, disability, SEND and youth violence, in your second and third years. Facilities and specialist equipment On-campus library with extensive range of physical and digital resources. Bespoke lecture theatres, presentation rooms and group study spaces New, state-of-the-art simulation suites offering a range of relevant practice scenarios Interactive learning opportunities with the use of case studies Career-powered links Our strong links with local organisations, charities and practitioners open up opportunities for voluntary and work placements in the community. For example, our students have recently undertaken projects in local primary schools, family centres, youth centres and with the Youth Partnership Service. Your student experience Learn from a research-active academic team with a wide range of relevant experience including in counselling, alternative provision, youth work, coaching, sex education and early years. Careers and employability units are embedded into the course throughout. Practise real-life scenarios using our ‘home to hospital’ simulation unit, Brewster Square, in a new work-based learning unit. Build your practical skills through volunteering work, using our strong links with local companies, charities and practitioners. Choose to undertake a 100-hour placement as your final project instead of a dissertation. Take on accredited training leading to a Certificate in Safeguarding in your final year. Immerse yourself in our #SASS Change Maker initiative, which works with local charities, policymakers and influencers to raise awareness of topical issues in society. Benefit from regular industry visitors and guest speakers such as representatives from Flying Start and as part of our #SASS Changemaker programme. Extend your learning with subject-relevant field trips such as the Young V&A Museum of Childhood.