Early Childhood and Special Educational Needs BA (Hons)

EARLY CHILDHOOD

If you’re passionate about helping young children thrive and want to understand how their early experiences shape the rest of their lives, then Early Childhood Studies is the course for you. 

This degree explores how babies and young children grow, learn and develop, while encouraging you to think about the social, cultural and global factors that influence childhood. You’ll examine the opportunities and challenges children face from birth to the age of eight, considering how we can create a fairer future where every child has the chance to flourish. 

Throughout the course, you’ll develop a deeper understanding of children’s development, learning, wellbeing and rights. You’ll also explore important issues such as inequality, inclusion, family life, play, education and policy, helping you understand how professionals can support children and families in meaningful ways. 

At Liverpool Hope, you’ll learn in a friendly and supportive environment where your lecturers know you as an individual and are committed to helping you succeed. Drawing on expertise from Sociology, Education, Philosophy and Psychology, you'll gain a rich and varied perspective on childhood. Through guest speakers, visits to organisations and community spaces across Liverpool, and teaching informed by the latest research, you'll connect your learning with real-world practice while developing the confidence to think critically and become an advocate for young children's rights and wellbeing.

SPECIAL EDUCATIONAL NEEDS

Make a difference by challenging barriers to inclusion and championing disability rights with Liverpool Hope University’s Special Educational Needs degree. Designed for students who want to create positive change, this course explores the social, cultural and historical perspectives that shape our understanding of disability and special educational needs, helping you develop the knowledge, confidence and practical skills valued across education, health, social care and beyond.  

You will learn from a supportive team of academics whose teaching is informed by personal experience together with internationally recognised research through the University's Centre for Culture and Disability Studies. Alongside lectures, seminars and tutorials, you'll engage with guest speakers, disabled-led organisations and professional partners, connecting theory with real-world practice.  

With a strong emphasis on inclusion, advocacy and social justice, you'll graduate prepared to make an impact in a wide range of careers while developing transferable skills in research, communication, critical thinking and ethical decision-making. Whether you're passionate about education, disability inclusion or social change, this degree provides an excellent foundation for your future.  

You can also study Special Educational Needs via a single honours degree with the course.

Listen to the Faculty of Education and Social Sciences podcast, episode 1 Prof. David Bolt