Leeds Beckett University United Kingdom

Childhood Development and Playwork BA (Hons)

Integrated Masters with deeper specialization and research focus
Taught in English
Duration 3 Years
Mode On Campus
Level Undergraduate
Degree Bachelors Degree
Closing soon September 2026

Course Overview

The Childhood Development and Playwork BA (Hons) at Leeds Beckett University is designed for aspiring professionals passionate about understanding and supporting children's wellbeing and development through the crucial lens of play. You will explore the complex interplay between child development, playwork theory, and societal constructs, preparing you to address contemporary challenges within the children's workforce. This degree is ideal if you are motivated to gain a deep, critical understanding of childhood, rights, and the vital role of play in fostering healthy development and learning.

This full-time, on-campus undergraduate degree is studied over three years, offering a dynamic learning experience that integrates theoretical knowledge with practical application. You will engage with modules covering playwork, child development, and experiential learning, with opportunities to develop specialisms in areas like therapeutic playwork or policy development. Through work-based learning and a final-year dissertation, you will build practical skills and a critical perspective, graduating ready for diverse roles in children's centres, schools, therapeutic settings, or community projects.

Course Curriculum & Details

Detailed information for serious evaluators

Program Overview

This BA (Hons) Childhood Development and Playwork program offers a comprehensive exploration of child development, childhood theories, and the practical applications of playwork. Across three years, students will delve into foundational and critical aspects of playwork, examine various perspectives on child development, and understand the societal and theoretical constructs of childhood. The curriculum also emphasizes experiential learning, focusing on its theory, practice, organizational development, and reflective and reflexive approaches, culminating in advanced project development and a dissertation.

1 YEAR 1

Playwork: Foundations of Theory & Practice
Child Development: Exploring Issues & Perspectives on Play
Childhood: Theory, Constructs & Concepts
Experiential Learning: Theory & Practice Explored
Experiential Learning: Organisational Development
Experiential Learning: Reflective Practice

2 YEAR 2

Playwork: Critical Applications
Childhood: Rights & Society
Experiential Learning: Theory & Practice Advanced
Experiential Learning: Objectives & Evaluation
Experiential Learning: Developing Reflexivity

3 YEAR 3

Playwork: Therapeutic Interventions
Project Development: Managing Design & Delivery
Childhood: Research Perspectives
Childhood Development & Playwork: Dissertation

Cost & Affordability

A clear picture of what this course will cost you

Program Costs

6% off
First Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 21,425.00 USD 22,762.00
Second Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 22,762.00
Third Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 22,762.00
Total Program Cost Estimated total tuition
USD 66,950.00 USD 68,287.00

Currency note: Program costs shown in USD based on the available tuition breakdown.

Living Costs

Accommodation
USD 462.00 - USD 3,620.00
Food & Groceries USD 2,417.00 - USD 4,833.00
Transport USD 806.00 - USD 1,611.00
Utilities & Bills USD 1,128.00 - USD 2,095.00
Estimated Total USD 4,351.00 - USD 8,539.00

Living cost estimates are based on Leeds Campus.

Outcomes & Employability

What happens after you graduate

97%
Graduate Employment Rate Within 6 to 12 months of graduation

Common Graduate Roles

Artificial Intelligence & Machine LearningBlockchain & Emerging TechnologiesClinical & Medical ServicesDevOps & Site Reliability EngineeringEducation Policy & AdministrationEducational Support ServicesHealthcare Administration & ManagementHealthcare ConsultingProduct Management & UXRehabilitation & Physiotherapy

Top Employers Hiring for this course

Leeds Beckett University

Leeds teaching hospital NHS trust

Mini First Aid

NHS

Pearson

Prismatic Strategy

Why Study Childhood Development and Playwork BA (Hons) at Leeds Beckett University

What makes this program stand out

September 2026 Closing soon

Next intake is in September 2026

Moderate Application response time

Leeds Beckett University typically responds to applications within 1 - 2 weeks, giving you clarity on your options quickly.

Life at Leeds Beckett University in United Kingdom

What daily life looks like for international students

Language

English

Primary language everywhere

Climate

Mild & Rainy

10-20°C average, pack layers

Safety (Numbeo Safety Index)

Very Safe

Exeter is one of UK's safest cities

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about Childhood Development and Playwork BA (Hons) at Leeds Beckett University

Can I work while studying?

As a degree student, you can work up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during breaks. No separate work permit is needed.

What English language score do I need for this course?

To meet English requirements, IELTS overall must be at least 6.0, with a minimum of 5.5 in each section. Alternatively, TOEFL and PTE scores are also accepted with specified minimums.

What jobs can I get after studying this course?

Graduates can pursue roles like Playworker, Child Development Specialist, Child Policy Advisor, Therapeutic Playworker, and Community Development Worker.

What will I actually study in this course?

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
  • Development

When can I start — what are the intake months?

The course begins in September. Make sure to apply before the intake deadline to secure your spot.
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