The Childhood Studies (Youthwork Pathway) Foundation Degree is designed for students working or volunteering with children and young people in youth work, informal education, and related services, including local authority and voluntary-sector youth services, community organisations, schools, outreach, and targeted support.
The programme combines academic study with practical, work-based learning to prepare students for professional youth work practice. Throughout the course, you will explore childhood, adolescence, and youth in contemporary social, cultural, and policy contexts. Students will gain a strong understanding of core youth work principles, ethics, and informal education approaches, including rights-based and participatory practice.
Key topics include safeguarding, inclusivity, SEND, youth engagement, advocacy, culture and identity, and social justice.
The programme emphasises applying theory to practice and practice to theory, developing reflective, ethical, and inclusive practitioners. Students also build essential skills in communication, collaboration, relationship-based practice, and critical reflection, alongside academic, digital, and information literacy. Graduates are equipped for careers in youth services, community organisations, schools, and outreach programmes, supporting children and young people in a range of contexts.
The course also provides a pathway to Level 6 study through the BA (Hons) Childhood Studies Top-Up, enabling further professional development and career progression.
Level 4 Modules:
Level 5 Modules:
Important Links:
Start Date
September 2026
Mix of face-to-face and online delivery.
Delivery Organisation: University Centre Calderdale College.
Entry Requirements & Interview Process
Entry is normally via a Level 3 qualification in a relevant subject and/or appropriate professional experience, plus an interview.
Applicants are expected to be in relevant employment or structured volunteering (normally at least 12 hours per week) in a youth work / informal education / children and young people’s service context for the duration of the programme, to support work-related learning and assessment.
Progression
On successful completion of the Foundation Degree, students may progress to BA (Hons) Childhood Studies (Top-Up), selecting the aligned pathway (including Youthwork).
The programme also supports progression within employment into roles with increased responsibility, subject to employer requirements and sector expectations.
Career Opportunities
Youth Worker, Community Outreach Worker, Youth Engagement Officer, Equality Support Worker
Course Fees
£7950 per year.
All higher education students must apply to Student Finance England for assistance towards fees.
For help or advice with this please contact our Guidance Team on 01422 399367.
The University Centre has a HE Hardship Fund which students may access if they are facing financial difficulties.
Awarding Body
This award is validated by The Open University.
Calderdale College has a set of standard entry requirements. Apply for the course you want to study and we will help you get there.
There are a lot of courses available – work focused, practical and academic so it is important to think about the future and whether you want to proceed to university, move onto another course or get a job. We offer BTECs, Apprenticeships, T Levels, NVQs, VRQs, Degree Level Courses and more.
If you’re still not sure, don’t worry, just speak to a member of our advice and guidance team who will advise you.
