Education, Mental Health and SEND with Foundation Year

Program Overview

This four-year undergraduate program in Education, Mental Health, and SEND prepares students for careers in inclusive education, health, and social care. It emphasizes mental health and SEND, providing specialized knowledge and skills in these critical areas. Students gain practical experience through professional work placements and develop employability skills through a focus on innovation and creativity. The program equips graduates with the knowledge, skills, and experience to make a positive impact in the lives of children and young people.

Program Outline

Education, Mental Health and SEND with Foundation Year - Undergraduate - Courses - Leeds Trinity University

Degree Overview

Objectives:

• Equip graduates with the knowledge, skills, and experience to embark on a rewarding career in the exciting and ever-changing sector of inclusive education, health, and social care.
• Develop critical understanding of the role of education in creating a fair and inclusive society, focusing on special educational needs (SEND) and mental health.
• Explore how education impacts the life chances of children and young people.
• Foster a deep understanding of the relationship between mental health and special educational needs in children and young people, examining both topics throughout the studies.
• Learn from experienced Mental Health and SEND practitioners and researchers, gaining valuable insights into current themes and best practices.
• Gain vital experience and employability skills through professional work placements in a range of settings that work with children, specifically in education, health, and social care.
• Personalize your degree with optional vocational micro-credential qualifications, enhancing your career prospects in various specialist settings.

Description:

This four-year undergraduate program includes an initial full-time Foundation Year, serving as an alternative entry route for individuals who:

• Lack the necessary qualifications for direct entry into the degree program.
• Feel unprepared for the rigors of degree-level study.
• Are returning to education and require additional support to adjust to university learning.
The Foundation Year in Education and Childhood will focus on developing your academic skills and confidence while introducing you to key concepts, debates, and skills that will enhance your subsequent years of undergraduate study. Upon successful completion of the Foundation Year, you will seamlessly progress onto the first year of the Education, Mental Health and SEND BA (Hons) degree program.

Outline

Module Structure:

The program involves a structured curriculum of modules spread across the four years of study.

• Foundation Year: This year comprises four core modules designed to enhance your academic skills and introduce you to fundamental concepts in education, childhood, and family studies.
Each module serves a specific purpose while contributing to your overall academic foundation.
• Year 1: Your first year features five core modules that delve deeper into theoretical and practical aspects of education, mental health, and SEND.
You will acquire a comprehensive understanding of safeguarding and child protection, children's mental health, special educational needs and disability in practice, and children's learning and development.
• Year 2: In your second year, you will expand your knowledge through five core modules focusing on critical areas such as trauma-informed and responsive practices, research methods and evidence-based practice, professional placement experiences, equality, diversity, and inclusive educational practices, and contemporary challenges in education.
• Year 3: Your final year of study consists of five core modules that provide advanced knowledge and practical skills in critical areas.
You will undertake a research project on a chosen topic within the field of education, focus on inclusive practice in education, investigate family support and leading interventions in education, explore therapeutic practices in education, and engage in advanced professional learning opportunities through work.

Key Highlights:

• Professional Work Placements: The program prioritizes practical experience by incorporating professional work placements within the curriculum.
You will have the opportunity to:
• Gain degree-relevant work experience in real-world settings.
• Build your knowledge and understanding of career sectors related to education, mental health, and SEND.
• Secure valuable employer references and industry contacts.
• Develop your professional network and establish connections.
• Focus on Mental Health and SEND: The program distinguishes itself by placing strong emphasis on mental health and SEND, providing you with specialized knowledge and skills in these critical areas.
• You will explore the latest research and theoretical frameworks.
• Engage with experienced practitioners and mental health experts.
• Develop practical interventions and support strategies for working with children and young people experiencing mental health difficulties and SEND.
• Emphasis on Inclusive Education: The program champions inclusive education throughout the curriculum, equipping you with the knowledge and skills to create inclusive learning environments for all children and young people.
• You will explore diverse needs and educational approaches.
• Develop strategies for promoting positive behaviour and emotional well-being.
• Contribute to fostering a more equitable and inclusive education system.

Assessment

Assessment Methods:

The program employs a variety of assessment methods tailored to the learning outcomes of each module, allowing you to demonstrate your knowledge and skills effectively. This may include:

• Examinations: Written assessments in the traditional format.
• Essays: Written assignments on specific topics requiring in-depth analysis and critical thinking.
• Presentations: Opportunities to present your research findings or ideas to your peers and faculty in a compelling and informative manner.
• Coursework: A range of assignments designed to assess your understanding and application of concepts learned throughout the module.
• Practical activities: Hands-on activities or projects that allow you to demonstrate your practical skills and problem-solving abilities.
• Reflective journals: Written reflections on your learning experiences and professional development throughout the program.

Assessment Criteria:

Assessments are evaluated based on rigorous criteria that ensure fairness and consistency. These criteria typically include:

• Accuracy and knowledge: Demonstrably understanding and applying relevant theoretical frameworks and concepts.
• Critical thinking and analysis: Assessing information objectively and drawing well-informed conclusions.
• Communication and presentation: Communicating your ideas effectively in clear, concise, and engaging written or oral formats.
• Originality and creativity: Demonstrating independent thought and the ability to generate new ideas.
• Organization and time management: Structuring your work effectively and meeting deadlines consistently.
• Professionalism and ethics: Upholding high standards of professional conduct and ethical behavior.

Teaching

Teaching Methods:

The program utilizes a diverse range of teaching methods to enhance your learning experience and cater to your individual learning styles. These methods include:

• Lectures: Traditional lectures delivered by experienced faculty members, providing an overview of key concepts and theories.
• Seminars: Interactive sessions focused on in-depth discussion, critical analysis, and problem-solving.
• Workshops: Practical and hands-on activities designed to develop specific skills and apply theoretical knowledge to real-world scenarios.
• Tutorials: One-on-one or small group sessions with faculty members, providing personalized guidance and support.
• Guest lectures: Presentations by industry experts and practitioners, offering insights into current trends and practical applications.
• Independent study: Encouraged and supported throughout the program, allowing you to explore your interests in greater depth and develop your research skills.

Faculty:

The program boasts a distinguished faculty composed of:

• Experienced and qualified lecturers: Highly knowledgeable academics with extensive experience in their respective fields.
• Active researchers: Faculty members who contribute to cutting-edge research in education, mental health, and SEND, ensuring that the curriculum reflects the latest advancements and knowledge.
• Mental Health and SEND experts: Practitioners with deep professional experience in supporting children and young people with mental health difficulties and SEND.

Unique Approaches:

The program incorporates unique approaches to enhance your learning experience and prepare you for a successful career:

• Focus on employability: The program integrates employability skills development throughout the curriculum, ensuring you graduate with the necessary skills and knowledge to thrive in the job market.
• Professional work placements: Real-world experience is prioritized through mandatory professional work placements, providing you with invaluable hands-on experience and industry connections.
• Individualized support: The program offers tailored support for every student, including academic advising, study skills workshops, and pastoral care.
• Emphasis on innovation and creativity: The program encourages independent thinking and creativity, nurturing your ability to generate new ideas and approaches to challenges within the field.

Careers

Career Paths:

Completing this program paves the way for a wide range of rewarding career paths in the fields of education, mental health, and social care. Potential career options include:

• Family support worker: Providing support and guidance to families experiencing challenges, including those related to mental health, special educational needs, and other complex issues.
• Mental health practitioner: Working with children and young people experiencing mental health difficulties, providing therapeutic interventions, support, and advocacy.
• Educational psychologist: Assessing and supporting children and young people with a wide range of developmental, behavioral, and learning difficulties.
• SEND specialist teacher: Supporting children and young people with special educational needs in mainstream and specialized educational settings.
• Educational researcher: Conducting research on a variety of topics related to education, mental health, and SEND, informing policy and practice.
• Charity worker: Working with NGOs and other organizations on issues related to children and young people's well-being, mental health, and educational equity.

Tuition fees cost £9,250 a year for this course in 2023/2024. Part-time tuition fees will be prorated accordingly to the number of credits you're studying. Depending on government policy, tuition fees may change in future years. Living costs, e.g. accommodation, travel, food, will also need to be taken into consideration. Leeds Trinity offers a range of bursaries and scholarships to help support students while you study.