New Degree Set to Strengthen Childhood and Education Workforce
A new degree course launched by the University of Wales Trinity Saint David (UWTSD) is set to offer specialist training for those aiming to work with children and young people.
The BA (Hons) Childhood Education and Society, which also provides an Additional Learning Needs, pathway will enable students to explore human development, working with children and young people, youth and community work, safeguarding, learning environments and tackle real‑world issues. The additional learning needs pathway will enable students to study neurodiversity, specific learning differences—including dyslexia—and multi‑agency practice in depth.
The degree course, which is based on the latest research in inclusive education incorporating digital, experiential learning indoors and outdoors, will be offered at the University’s Swansea and Carmarthen campuses.
Taster courses for the Carmarthen and Swansea will be held in April for those interested in joining the course in September 2026 or 2027.
Natalie MacDonald, Head of School of Childhood, Youth and Education at UWTSD, said: “We are delighted to introduce our new degrees, which bring together education, sociology and early childhood studies, with the option to specialise in Additional Learning Needs and Special Educational Needs. This exciting programme offers students a unique opportunity to develop a broad and versatile skill set, opening doors to a wide range of future career pathways.
“We are proud to offer enriching opportunities such as study abroad, fieldwork experiences and additional qualifications, including safeguarding and first aid, all designed to enhance our graduates’ employability”.
“The degree is available through the medium of English, Welsh or bilingually, with opportunities to further develop Welsh language skills which provides another advantage for employability. Graduates are well prepared to progress into our postgraduate pathways, including professionally qualifying Youth and Community Work, Children’s Mental Health, Additional Learning Needs, and Equity, Diversity and Inclusion in Practice, as well as PGCE and PCET teacher training. This degree offers an excellent foundation for a rewarding and impactful career.”
Students can choose to study at either the University’s Swansea or Carmarthen campuses. Teaching is delivered through a blend of lectures, seminars and interactive workshops, ensuring that students can apply theory to practice and develop confidence using immersive and virtual reality technologies.
In addition to the core teaching team, students will benefit from a rich programme of guest lectures and specialist sessions led by practitioners, researchers and sector partners. These collaborations expose students to diverse perspectives and current developments across education, social care, community practice and inclusion. Learning, teaching and assessment on the programme are intentionally innovative and inclusive, incorporating problem‑based learning, project work, digital tools and immersive technologies. These approaches ensure that all students can engage meaningfully with content, apply theory to authentic scenarios and develop confidence in both academic and professional competencies.
Natasha Young, Programme Manager, said: “This programme will be delivered by a dedicated team of lecturers whose expertise spans education, sociology, early childhood studies, additional learning needs and more. Many colleagues are active researchers and published authors in their fields, bringing cutting‑edge scholarship directly into the classroom. Their professional backgrounds include working with children, young people, families and communities across a variety of educational and social contexts. This breadth of real‑world experience ensures that students will learn from staff who understand the complexities of contemporary practice and who can support them to develop the knowledge, values and skills needed to make a meaningful difference.
“As Programme Manager, I am genuinely excited to see the dedication, creativity and hard work of the team come together in this new degree. It has been carefully designed to reflect the needs of our diverse and rapidly evolving society, and to prepare graduates who are knowledgeable, compassionate and ready to contribute positively to the lives of children, young people and communities. Launching this course is a proud moment, and I look forward to welcoming our first cohort and supporting them on a rewarding and impactful journey”.
Admissions Tutor Glenda Tinney said. “It is not too late to apply for this new programme and join the first cohort on this exciting study journey. Information is available on the University’s website and on the UCAS website.
We’ve arranged two taster events – one in Carmarthen and one in Swansea – for anyone interested and the University Open Evenings in March. We’d welcome any questions and are happy to arrange a visits to discuss any aspects of our new course. The important thing is to get in touch as we would be delighted to hear from prospective students”.
Carmarthen Taster event
Swansea Taster event
Further Information
Lowri Thomas
Principal Communications and PR Officer
Corporate Communications and PR
Email: lowri.thomas@uwtsd.ac.uk
Phone: 07449 998476