FdA Therapeutic Childcare

What you will study

YEAR 1 (LEVEL 4)

In year one, you will lay the foundations of your academic study skills whilst also learning the foundations of relationship-based work with children. There is a focus on developing your verbal and written communication alongside learning about the values, knowledge and skills that underpin therapeutic child care.

MODULES

• Attachment Theory
• Child development and Play
• Study Skills in Higher Education 
• Child Sexual Exploitation: Critical Perspectives on Safeguarding
• Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACE) and the Protective Environment
• Working Together to Safeguard Self and Others

YEAR 2 (LEVEL 5)

Year two focuses on the application of theory to practice. In year two you will apply theoretical models to promote attachment and trauma-informed practice models. There is a focus on the development of self through therapeutic skills and critical reflection.

MODULES

• Professional Development
• Trauma and Resilience
• Applied Attachment Theory
• Creative Methods in the Therapeutic Relationship
• Sexual Development and the Impact of Abuse

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

• All students must be current childcare practitioners and have at least ten hours a week paid or voluntary work within the childcare sector, preferably with children who are ‘looked after’. If you have no relevant employment experience you are advised in the first instance to have an informal discussion with one of our tutors.
• You must also be able to negotiate time away from your workplace to attend lectures (approximately twelve days each academic year).
• A-level 3 Diploma in Children and Young People or an NVQ level 3 related to working with children and young people.
• A GCSE English/Welsh (First Language) (grade C/4 or above) or equivalent. Appropriate AS-level and Level 3 Key Skills qualifications will also be taken into account.
• You must have access to a computer and internet connection.
• Completion of the university application form
• All candidates will be interviewed.

Teaching & Assessment

All assessments are based on your academic study and from gathering information in the workplace. You are assessed in a variety of ways throughout the three years of study, including, essays, portfolio, workbook, presentation, video role-play and reflective commentary. 

Teaching and learning

Wrexham Glyndŵr University is committed to supporting our students to maximise their academic potential.

We offer workshops and support sessions in areas such as academic writing, effective note-making and preparing for assignments. Students can book appointments with academic skills tutors dedicated to helping deal with the practicalities of university work. Our student support section has more information on the help available.

In terms of particular needs, the University’s Inclusion services can provide appropriate guidance and support should any students require reasonable adjustments to be made because of a recognised prevailing disability, medical condition, or specific learning difference.

You will get lots of support especially as you start to develop the skills needed to complete assessments. Feedback will be given during and after each assessment to help you build a variety of academic and practical writing skills.

To add flexibility, a large part of this course is taught online.

Career prospects

Our Careers & Employability Service is there to help you make decisions and plan the next steps towards a bright future. From finding work or further study to working out your interests, skills and aspirations, they can provide you with the expert information, advice and guidance you need.

Careers open to graduates of this degree include working with children:

• In residential homes and schools
• In foster care 
• In family support work.

After successful completion of the FdA students often gain promotion within their organisation. Some students go on to top-up their FdA to a full BA (Hons) Therapeutic Child Care. 

Fees & funding

You do not have to pay your tuition fees upfront.

Wrexham Glyndŵr University’s tuition fees for 2023/24 for FdA Therapeutic Childcare are £3250.

The fees you pay and the support available will depend on a number of different factors. Full information can be found on our fees and funding pages.

Programme specification

You can see the full programme specification here.

Accommodation

International