Early Years Childhood and Family Studies (Top Up) Welcome Pack

The Early Years, Childhood, and Family Studies (Top Up) distance learning programme offers a vibrant, interdisciplinary community focused on dynamic learning and groundbreaking research. Designed to merge theory with practice, it critically explores the ever-evolving socio-political landscape of early years, childhood, and family studies.

At the University of Northampton, we empower professionals working with children, young people, and families. Our distance learning top-up programme opens doors to advanced study and professional growth.

By joining us, you will:

• Dive deep into the fascinating world of childhood, families, and communities in diverse settings.
• Develop your critical thinking and analytical skills to challenge and evaluate policies, practices, and interventions.
• Master research techniques and ethical practices, paving the way for evidence-based decision-making.
• Implement core principles and theories to innovate, lead, and transform practices in child and family work.
• Boost your employability and changemaker skills, becoming a catalyst for positive change and collaboration.

Our assessments are crafted to showcase your strengths and talents, from report writing to policy analysis and independent research. Each module provides robust academic support, with dedicated Personal and Academic Tutors offering personalised and group tutorials. This individualised support ensures we cater to your unique needs.

Graduates from our programme step into exciting careers, with opportunities in teaching, social work, and more. We are looking forward to you joining us and embarking on an exciting journey of discovery, to expand your knowledge, enhance your skills, and make a lasting impact on the lives of children, young people, and families.

Your Programme Leader

Michelle Bugby

Programme Lead for Early Years Childhood and Family Studies (Top Up) Senior Lecturer in Early Childhood Studies
Michelle.bugby@northampton.ac.uk