Childhood Development and Playwork

Gain the knowledge and practical experience required to work with children and young people across a wide variety of careers.

Develop the confidence and expertise to work in a range of professions across the children’s workforce.

As part of this course you'll:

- Follow unique learning pathways to shape your future career and gain vital work experience from a variety of placement opportunities. These could include: hospital play, therapeutic playwork, adventure playgrounds, community and policy, and development work.

- Focus on the sociology and psychology of children and childhood in your classroom-based learning.

- Pay attention to the importance of play for children’s wellbeing and development.

- Develop specialisms in: playwork, child development, the sociology of childhood and social policy, and the provision and management of children’s play projects.

You’ll have access to work-based learning opportunities with experienced supervisors in a range of child-focused occupations. Upon graduation you’ll have a range of practical and transferable skills at your fingertips, and a critical understanding of contemporary issues central to the study and practice of childhood development and playwork.

Industry expertise
We have more than 30 years of experience in teaching childhood development and playwork. The course team shares a range of professional and practical specialisms in the fields of playwork, hospital play, and policy and project development. They are also actively involved with charitable children’s projects.

Visiting practitioners will give you an insight into their personal experiences of working with children in a wide range of disciplines.

Why study childhood development and playwork at Leeds Beckett University...
- 91% of students were positive about the teaching on BA (Hons) Childhood Development & Playwork*

- Placement opportunities available

- Study abroad option

- Part-time study available

National Student Survey 2024*