Northumbria University's Childhood and Early Years degree is designed to help you make a difference in the lives of children. You'll gain knowledge, insight and understanding of a range of issues relating to childhood, children, young people and society. Covering topics including child development, education, war, poverty, health, disability, the law, you'll analyse the contemporary experience of children, looking at the latest research, historical documents, children's literature and film, and a range of other sources. This understanding will open up a range of employment opportunities and provide a foundation to go on and study further training courses including teaching, social work, children's nursing and other related professions. You will reflect upon current developments in childhood provision, policy and practice both nationally and internationally, and you'll be learning from staff who are contributing to the most important debates in the field. When you graduate, you'll be able to relate everything you learn back to practice, and you'll have undertaken a minimum of 50 hours practical work related experience, which will support you in moving into a profession of your choice. This course is in line with the QAA benchmarks for Early Childhood Studies as well as the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) guidance, both respected benchmarks in professions involving work with children.This course provides a sound foundation from which to progress professional training courses including teaching, social work, children’s nursing and other related professions. You’ll develop workplace skills, and find out more about different professions, through observational fieldwork visits and work placements. You’ll also get the chance to engage with a range of employers, alumni and external agencies. This gives you a wide network of contacts, and ensures that you know your chosen role is right for you. In your second year, you will undertake a minimum of 50 hours practical work related experience. This will get you used to the professional environment, and develop your practical skills. The course is designed to allow you to undertake opportunities to study and work abroad during year two. You will get a global perspective on the issues facing children, which is enormously attractive to employers. When you graduate, there are a range of careers you will be able to pursue. Social care roles, research into child development, teaching - the course is in line with Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) guidance, which is the benchmark for the industry and respected in all of these professions.