University of Northampton

What you'll study

This graduate diploma combines theory, evidence‑based practice and applied skills to support the wellbeing of children and young people across universal and targeted services. Modules typically cover:

• Foundations of child and adolescent development — normative and atypical development, attachment, and neurodevelopmental differences.
• Mental health, emotional wellbeing and resilience — common presentations, early identification, prevention and interventions for anxiety, depression and self‑harm.
• Trauma‑informed and attachment‑aware practice — understanding adverse childhood experiences, safeguarding implications and recovery‑centred approaches.
• Assessment, formulation and outcome measurement — strengths‑based assessment, risk management, goal setting and evaluating interventions.
• Family systems, partnership working and multi‑agency practice — working effectively with parents/carers, schools, health services and statutory agencies.
• Policy, ethics and legal frameworks — safeguarding law, confidentiality, consent and current UK policy relevant to children’s wellbeing.
• Professional practice and reflective skills — reflective practice, supervision, cultural competence and professional boundaries.

The programme usually includes a practice placement or practice‑based assessment so learners can demonstrate applied skills in real settings. Teaching methods combine lectures, seminars, case studies, simulated scenarios, small group work and assessed practice portfolios. Assessment is through a mix of essays, case formulations, presentations and practice competency evidence.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to have an undergraduate degree in a related subject (for example education, health, psychology, social science) or equivalent professional experience. Candidates with substantial relevant professional experience but without a degree are considered on an individual basis. In addition, applicants will typically be required to provide:

• References that reflect suitability for working with children and young people.
• Enhanced DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service) clearance and any required occupational health checks prior to practice elements.
• A short written statement and/or interview to demonstrate motivation, relevant experience and readiness for study.

Specific entry requirements may vary by pathway; prospective students should check with the University admissions team for personalised guidance.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for roles that focus on promoting wellbeing and supporting children and young people in a range of settings. Typical career destinations include:

• School wellbeing practitioner, behaviour support or pastoral roles within education settings.
• Youth work and community‑based wellbeing roles.
• Family support worker or early help practitioner for local authorities and charities.
• Assistant practitioner roles in child and adolescent mental health teams (CAMHS) and other health services.
• Progression to professional training or further postgraduate study in areas such as counselling, educational psychology, social work conversion programmes or master’s level study in child mental health and wellbeing.

The programme’s practice focus and local partnership links help students build professional networks with schools, healthcare providers and statutory agencies, improving employability in the sector.

Why study at University of Northampton

The University of Northampton emphasises applied, work‑based learning and strong links with regional services supporting children and families. You will learn from staff with practice and research expertise in child wellbeing, mental health and safeguarding, and benefit from teaching informed by current policy and local partnership needs.

Students have access to on‑campus support services, a dedicated skills and careers team, and opportunities for placement and collaborative projects with schools, health trusts and community organisations. The programme is designed to be accessible to working professionals, with flexible delivery elements that support part‑time study and practice commitments.