BA (Hons) Education Studies: ALN/SEND Top-Up
Course details
Year of entry
Jan 2027
Duration
1 YR (FT) 2 YRS (PT)
Institution Code
G53
Location
Online
Why choose this course?
The Top-Up degree is designed for professionals working in education and childhood settings who want to develop their knowledge and strengthen their practice in Additional Learning Needs and Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (ALN/SEND).
Through a range of engaging modules, you will explore contemporary issues in ALN/SEND and develop specialist knowledge that reflects your professional interests and career goals. The programme’s distinctive focus on both the Welsh ALN system and the English SEND framework will give you a comparative understanding of inclusive education policy, legislation and practice across both nations.
Your professional experience will be valued throughout the course, and you will be encouraged to apply your learning directly to practice. Varied and authentic assessments will help you develop transferable skills, confidence and expertise, whether you want to progress in your current role, move into specialist practice or continue to postgraduate study. You will be equipped to promote meaningful inclusion and make a positive difference to the experiences and outcomes of children and young people with ALN/SEND.
Throughout the programme, you will engage with current research, develop your critical thinking skills and apply theory directly to your professional practice. By the end of the course, you will have the knowledge and confidence to make a positive difference to children and young people.
Key course features
You will:
- Build on your existing qualifications and professional experience while exploring areas that interest you. The programme covers inclusive practice, assessment, intervention, leadership and current issues affecting children and young people. A distinctive feature of the degree is its focus on both Wales and England.
- Develop specialist knowledge of Additional Learning Needs and Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (ALN/SEND), strengthening your understanding of inclusive practice and supporting your professional development in education and childhood settings.
- Study a programme designed specifically for professionals working in education and childhood settings, where your existing knowledge, skills and workplace experience are recognised and valued.
- Explore a wide range of contemporary ALN/SEND topics, including inclusive practice, neurodiversity, assessment, intervention, and current debates affecting children and young people.
- Gain a unique understanding of inclusive education across Wales and England by examining the Welsh ALN system alongside the English SEND framework, including the legislation, policies and practices that shape provision.
- Benefit from flexible online learning designed to fit around your work, family and other commitments, with the option to study full-time or part-time.
- Join an active and supportive online learning community through engaging workbooks, opportunities to network with other professionals and regular tutor support sessions.
What you will study
Level 6
MODULES
Working with ALN/ SEND (Core) - This module will help you understand the legislation, policies and practices that shape support for children and young people with ALN/SEND in Wales and England. You will explore the roles of educators, families and other professionals, with a focus on person-centred practice, inclusion and effective partnership working. Using current research and examples from practice, you will evaluate approaches that promote participation, achievement and positive outcomes.
Neurodiversity (Core) - You will explore neurodiversity as a way of understanding human difference and challenges traditional views of neurodivergence in education. You will examine how history, culture, policy and educational practice shape the experiences, participation and achievement of neurodivergent learners. Using current research and lived experiences, you will develop evidence-informed recommendations for more inclusive learning environments.
Contemporary Approaches to Education (Core) - You will develop transferable skills in research, critical thinking and professional communication. You will be supported to choose an area of ALN/SEND that is relevant to your personal and professional development and by exploring theory and research, you will consider how your chosen topic can be applied to your practice and the wider education and childhood workforce.
Research Methods (Core) - This module will introduce you to research methods. You will examine the role of research in practice before choosing your own research topic to explore. You will understand how to recruit participants, how to review literature and gain ethical approval for your study. In this module you will also write your research tools ready to collect your research data. All of these steps will be with the guidance of a research supervisor who will offer individual support each step of the way.
Dissertation (Core) - Your dissertation is the culmination of your Level 6 study, giving you the opportunity to further investigate your chosen research topic. Building on the knowledge and skills developed in the research methods module, you will analyse your research data, engage critically with relevant literature and develop a clear, evidence-informed discussion of your findings. You will be guided step by step through each section of the dissertation through a combination of online learning materials, tutorials and individual support.
The information listed in this section is an overview of the academic content of the programme that will take the form of either core or option modules. Modules are designated as core or option in accordance with professional body requirements and internal academic framework review, so may be subject to change.
Entry requirements & applying
- 240 HE credits at level 4 and 5 (or equivalent)
- Level 5 Leadership and Management of Children's Care, Play Learning and Development (Wales) + 3 years or more experience.
- GCSE grade C/4 or above in English/Welsh (First Language).
- Students without the above entry requirements, who can demonstrate extensive CPD and experience in the sector, are welcome to apply and will be considered on an individual basis.
Teaching & Assessment
Assessment is varied, inclusive and designed to reflect real professional tasks, with methods including presentations, case studies, portfolios and a dissertation. These assignments will help you build transferable skills that can be applied in the workplace, while giving you meaningful opportunities to demonstrate your knowledge, understanding and professional expertise.
You will also have access to regular tutor support sessions where you can discuss key ideas, ask questions and learn alongside tutors and other students. This creates a supportive learning environment that values the different experiences and professional backgrounds you bring to the programme.
Delivered fully online, the programme can fit around your work and family commitments, with full-time and part-time study options and dedicated tutor support throughout.
Career prospects
Our dedicated Careers and Employability team is committed to helping you achieve your professional goals. They provide personalised advice, useful resources, and extracurricular employability events to prepare you for the job market.
Graduates of this course can pursue careers in:
- ALN/SEND Support Practitioner
- PGCE (QTS) in Teacher Education (with additional study)
- Learning Support Assistant
- Third Sector (Charity) organisations
- Local Government roles
Additionally, you may choose to further your expertise through postgraduate studies. Explore our postgraduate courses for more information.
Fees & funding
You do not have to pay your tuition fees upfront.
The fees you pay and the support available will depend on a number of different factors. Full information can be found on our fees & finance pages. You will also find information about what your fees include in the fee FAQs.
All fees are subject to any changes in government policy, view our undergraduate fees.
Accommodation
At Wrexham University, we offer on-campus en-suite rooms within our Wrexham Student Village. These private, fully furnished spaces are conveniently located, providing easy access to campus facilities, study areas, and social spaces. Plus, you’re just a 10-minute walk from the city centre!
With all bills included, free Wi-Fi, 24/7 security, and large social areas, you’ll find everything you need for a great student experience.
Explore our student accommodation options to find your perfect home away from home.
Subject to validation
Courses shown as “subject to validation” are new courses which are in development and the details of these courses are in the process of being finalised through the approval cycle, known as the ‘validation’ process. As soon as the programmes are validated the details of the course will be confirmed. The majority of new courses that are still ‘subject to validation’ are approved by the validation process; however, this is not guaranteed and should the course not go ahead as planned, or be significantly amended, you will be informed by the university and assistance will be provided to those who have been offered a place to find a suitable alternative course either at Wrexham University or at another provider.
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