Childhood, Youth and Special Educational Needs Foundation Degree

Advance your career in childhood education with our two-year Childhood, Youth & Special Educational Needs Foundation Degree. Designed for professionals already working or volunteering in education, childcare, or support roles, this flexible Level 5 course will allow you to study alongside your current job role.

This part-time, interdisciplinary-focused course is perfect for those who are looking to upskill and specialise in special educational needs (SEN) across early years, schools, or youth services.

Co-developed with practitioners, the course blends theory with practice, giving you the tools to create inclusive, supportive environments for all children and young people. Taking a holistic approach, you’ll explore a range of contexts to allow you to fully understand the diverse needs and services for children and young people with SEN.

What you'll learn
• Explore neurodiversity, autism, and how to adopt inclusive teaching approaches to support diverse learners.



• Critically analyse education policy and its real-world impact on children with SEN and their families.



• Develop specialist knowledge of current research, theory, and interventions in childhood education.



• Reflect on your own professional practice to strengthen your role as a SEN practitioner.



• Collaborate with peers across different educational areas to gain fresh insight into multi-agency and community-based approaches.



Whether you're in early years, a teaching assistant role, youth work, or family support, this degree empowers you to deepen your impact and progress in your career.

91% of our students were satisfied with the teaching in the subject area of Childhood and Youth Studies - National Student Survey 2025

Study options and Location

Twilight:


• Canterbury Campus



• Medway Campus

University isn't just an education, it's the start of your career. At Canterbury Christ Church University (CCCU), you'll get to explore a number of exciting career paths, whatever you study.

CCCU is ranked top 5 UK university for employability (Uni Compare Rankings 2026), highlighting its excellent student careers and employability support. The university is home to career-relevant courses and industry-standard facilities. For example, film students can showcase their creativity in the fully equipped film/TV studio, forensics students can test their observational abilities in mock crime scenes, and nursing students can practice their skills in simulated hospital wards.

With a campus in a World Heritage Site, Canterbury is also less than an hour on the train from London and is buzzing with student life. You've got beautiful coast and countryside right on your doorstep, and plenty of opportunities to make friends. With CCCU's range of clubs and societies, including Tennis, Musical Theatre and Dodgeball, you're bound to meet your friends for life.

Click register interest now to secure your place at CCCU this September.