Why study this course
Opportunity to combine two important disciplines and work with other like minded students.
Opportunities to study additional short courses which will enhance your skills when working with young children and their families
A free place on one of our preparing for teaching courses as part of your degree. Completion of the course will also guarantee you an interview on one of our highly sought after PGCE courses
Opportunity to undertake placements in related settings.
Course summary
The BA (Hons) Special Educational Needs, Disability and Inclusion (SENDI) & Early Childhood Studies joint programme strongly supports an understanding of the crucial 0-8 stage of child development through a focus on individual needs and the broader sociocultural context of young children and their families. This is particularly significant in the light of the current government agenda to reduce child inequalities; prioritising prevention and early intervention; and building and strengthening local and cross sector services.
Key facts
|
Award |
BA (Hons) |
|---|---|
|
UCAS code |
XX41 |
|
Typical offer |
96 points (e.g. CCC) |
|
Duration |
3 years |
|
Mode of study |
Full time |
|
Start date |
September 2026 |
|
Award |
Lincoln Bishop University |
|
Institution code |
B38 |
Apply for this course
When you're ready to apply, the route you take will depend on your personal circumstances and preferred method of study. Click the relevant button below to start your application journey.
About this course
The BA (Hons) SENDI and ECS degree will provide opportunities for you to develop an understanding of important concepts such as multiagency working and different categories of need, in addition to offering opportunities for critical, reflective and evidence-based practice in order that graduates might become advocates of change.
You will gain the knowledge and skills required to support families and young children in a range of education related settings and through practice with young children and their families, you will be encouraged to explore your own personal, professional and ethical values.
This new programme will support you if you have aspirations to be an Early Help Worker attached to Children’s Centres, Early Years Practitioners working with young children and families in specialist and mainstream provision, charity roles (paid or volunteering) such as care support, respite and play workers.
Scheduled Teaching Hours
Undergraduate programmes consist of 360 HE credits, with each credit equating to 10 hours of learning.
Depending upon the mode of delivery (i.e. face-to-face/in-person, online or a blend of these) and whether your course is full-time or part-time, the delivery of the scheduled hours for the programme will involve taught input, independent study, and where applicable, work-based or placement hours.
What you will study
Students on this course currently study some or all of the following modules:
This module will introduce you to the field of Special Educational Needs and Inclusion (SENI). The module will look at educational and social models of disability within schools and across global and national levels of society. The impacts of competing perspectives and changing legislation will be discussed and critiqued. You will be expected to reflect upon your own experiences and perceptions of Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND). The introduction and induction to study skills will be integral to this module including engagement with VLE.
This module explores policy, provision, and practice both historically and currently, providing you with the opportunity to understand what shifts and shapes early years policy and the subsequent impact of policy on practice.
The module presents an historical overview of the development of early childhood provision using the lens of social and political discourse and, through an exploration of the work of key thinkers and philosophers who have influenced current policy and provision. The module includes a study of historical practice and provision for young children and covers the work of early social, educational and health reformers. You will also examine the work of more contemporary thinkers and will be introduced to some alternative education styles.
You will be encouraged to question underlying philosophies and the social and political motivations for shaping policy when creating provision for young children. You will be encouraged to reflect on your own personal philosophy and how this might have been influenced, and how this may subsequently influence your own practice.
During this module, you will have the opportunity to develop your graduate competencies with regards to your understanding of the relevant frameworks, and how these are applied to practice, as well as developing your understanding of policy.
Unlock the secrets to effective learning! This module explores how we learn, offering innovative approaches and tools to help you and your future learners become lifelong, independent thinkers. Perfect for anyone passionate about inspiring curiosity and resilience in education.
This module will enable you to identify some of the causes which impact upon learning in both educational and social settings. You will be introduced to policies and strategies adopted and adapted in response to different learning behaviours, which facilitate inclusive practice. The module will explore and promote an understanding of the how these barriers can be removed in practice, examining strategies to support pupils with complex learning needs and behaviours. You will examine theories related to motivation and engagement. Several sessions will explore a range of disabilities and difficulties which are causal factors of behaviour for learning e.g., Syndromes and disorders; Autism, Attention Deficit, Hyperactivity, Oppositional Defiant Disorder, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder and Depressive disorders. Consideration will be given to the seeming increase in numbers of children identified with these syndromes and associated learning needs.
This module will build and expand upon issues considered in Level 4 module, From Excluded to Included: A Century of Change. You will critically consider effective practice in a range of diverse settings and demonstrate increased knowledge and understanding of how individual needs are met. This module will also extend understanding of ideologies with reference to human rights of inclusion. Exploration and consideration of differing international practices will be undertaken. You will examine a range of diverse needs, considering cause and impact upon learning supported by up to 48 hours placement. By the end of the module, you will be able to reflect upon the impact of legislation and practice in meeting the learning needs of a range of disabilities. This module will contribute to an understanding of leading and managing (Level 6).
In this module you will explore the concept of ‘childhood’ from philosophical, sociological and psychological perspectives. Common assumptions about children and childhood will be identified and you will consider how these perceptions are socially constructed according to historical time, place and culture, drawing upon the work of a range of philosophers and educational pioneers. Western perspectives of the child and childhood will be critiqued and contrasted with non-Western views and practices.
The module will explore some of the contemporary debates around children and childhood today and consider implications for practice in the early years.
Become a champion for children’s safety and welfare. This essential module covers safeguarding principles, policies, and practices, ensuring you’re prepared to protect and advocate for vulnerable individuals in educational and care settings.
Embark on your journey to professional excellence. This module guides you through the values, ethics, and behaviours that define outstanding educators and practitioners, helping you to develop a strong professional identity and confidence.
Dive into the world of educational research! This module introduces you to key research principles and skills, giving you the tools to investigate, analyse, and contribute to best practice in education and care.
Champion equality and inclusion in education. Explore how social justice shapes learning environments and discover strategies to break down barriers, ensuring every learner feels valued and supported.
This module will consider a range of factors, which can often impact upon learning and may potentially go unnoticed. You will consider different impacts of psychological, social and emotional disruption upon learning. This will range from prejudices, global and local social exclusion to mental well-being and academic progress. By the end of the module, you will recognise how a range of issues can affect individual learning needs and understand how different support networks and interventions can enable positive learning and life experiences for those who face hidden inequalities. You will be encouraged to engage in determining the content of the module.
In this module you will reflect on the impact of change on the developing child, with a focus on the range of transitions which children experience from birth to 8 years.
The module will draw from research which argues that if a child is taught to cope with the expected changes that are anticipated through childhood, then they will develop better coping mechanisms when faced with unexpected changes. You will be encouraged to reflect on the changes experienced by children in a rapidly changing society and will examine some of the strategies which might be used to support children through these expected and unexpected changes. A key focus of this module will be that of the promotion of resilience, resourcefulness and reciprocity, and the role of the adult in fostering these in children in order to prepare them for a future of change and supporting more positive outcomes into adulthood.
Broaden your horizons with a global outlook on education. This module examines worldwide trends and future challenges, preparing you to innovate and lead in an ever-changing educational landscape.
Master the art of research design. This module provides hands-on experience in planning and conducting research, empowering you to make evidence-based decisions and drive positive change.
Showcase your expertise with a capstone project. This module challenges you to integrate your learning, tackle real-world issues, and present solutions that make a lasting impact.
Become an inspiring leader in education. This module explores leadership styles, strategies, and skills to help you drive positive change and support continuous learning.
Entry requirements
You will normally need 96 UCAS tariff points (from a maximum of four Advanced Level qualifications). We welcome a range of qualifications that meet this requirement, such as A/AS Levels, BTEC, T Levels, Access Courses, International Baccalaureate (IB), Cambridge Pre-U, Extended Project etc.
You will also need GCSEs in English Language and Maths at grade 4 (previously C) or above (or equivalent).
However this list is not exhaustive – please click here for details of all qualifications in the UCAS tariff.
You will be required to pay for an Enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check and placement related travel costs (according to the Student Transport, Accommodation and Subsistence Policy).
Find out more about the international application process including English Language requirements.
If you don’t have, or don’t think you will attain the normal tariff points for studying at Lincoln Bishop, click here to view Foundation Year courses.
Further information
Click here for key information for all undergraduate students.
Click here for all programme specifications.
In accordance with University conditions, students are entitled to apply for Recognition of Prior Learning, RP(C)L, based on relevant credit at another HE institution or credit Awarded for Experiential Learning, (RP(E)L).
How you will be taught
There is no one-size-fits-all method of teaching at Lincoln Bishop – we shape our methods to suit each subject and each group, combining the best aspects of traditional university teaching with innovative techniques to promote student participation and interactivity.
You will be taught in a variety of ways, from lectures, tutorials and seminars, to practical workshops, coursework and work-based placements. Small group seminars and workshops will provide you with an opportunity to review issues raised in lectures, and you will be expected to carry out independent study.
Placements are a key part of degree study within many courses at Lincoln Bishop. They provide an enriching learning experience for you to apply the skills and knowledge you will gain from your course and, in doing so, give valuable real-world experience to boost your career.

Academic staff
Assessment
Your first year in SENDI is important. We know that you will need time to settle into university and build up your academic skills and so, we will give you detailed feedback on how you are doing and set your targets to improve your work. We use a wide range of different types of assessment throughout the course, including coursework portfolios, group discussions, multimedia technology presentations and individual projects, as well as essays and a timed assessment (year 3). You may even have the opportunity to get your dissertation research work published!
We recognise that individuals come from a wide range of backgrounds and experiences, so we use a variety of assessment strategies in our courses. Assessments in Early Childhood Studies take place at the end of each module in order for you to demonstrate your understanding of the objectives covered. A wide range of assessment methods is used to support your learning, including the production of portfolios, presentations and displays. You’ll also be assessed through written essays, discussions, debates and multimedia projects. Assessments are not only designed to assess your knowledge and understanding but also help you to develop transferable skills which will support you as you enter the early year's workforce.
Careers & Further study
Special Educational Needs, Disability & Inclusion
You will be supported throughout your study by opportunities to explore different career aspirations, working with our specialist team at BGFutures. Guest speakers share their professional experiences which can open new ideas for you. Progression has included graduate employment, teaching, social work, creative therapies, speech and language therapy, senior education managers and residential care. Progression to further study at Master’s level is a further choice. This degree offers a range of possibilities which we are happy to discuss with you at any time.
Early Childhood Studies
Early Childhood is a growing sector and the skills learnt on this course will enable you to enter the children’s workforce in a range of different roles. Some of our students seek a route into teaching through a PGCE qualifications here at Lincoln Bishop, whilst others enter other teacher training routes. Many of our graduates have gone on to further study in areas of specialism including psychology, speech and language or midwifery, whilst others have entered the workforce as early years practitioners and room leaders in early years settings, before going on to management roles. The diverse nature of this course will also enable you to go on to further study such as postgraduate study on a master degree, seeking wider opportunities in many different fields, including health and social care, children’s social work, play therapy and speech and language therapy. Possible future careers for Early Childhood Studies graduates may include as a Teacher or classroom assistant, Speech and language therapy, Early years management, Social work or Play therapy.
"Having mentored many students on placements, it's always gratifying to work alongside those who already have an insight into how children learn and develop. These are the students who can make links between what they have learned in theory with what they then see in practice. These are the students who are able to support children to make progress in areas such as language, communication and social development. The opportunities they have to observe and work with children, coupled with their knowledge of the theory is helping to build an insightful and professional early years workforce". (Kate Hodge, Early Years Practitioner)
What Our Students Say
Discover what life is like at Lincoln Bishop University from our students.
Support
Studying at Lincoln Bishop is a student-centred experience. Staff and students work together in a friendly and supportive atmosphere as part of an intimate campus community. You will know every member of staff personally and feel confident approaching them for help and advice, and staff members will recognise you, not just by sight, but as an individual with unique talents and interests.
We will be there to support you, personally and academically, from induction to graduation.
Fees & Funding
A lot of student finance information is available from numerous sources, but it is sometimes confusing and contradictory. That’s why at Lincoln Bishop we try to give you all the information and support we can to help to throughout the process. Our Student Advice team are experts in helping you sort out the funding arrangements for your studies, offering a range of services to guide you through all aspects of student finance step by step.
Undergraduate course applicants should apply via UCAS using the relevant UCAS code. For 2026 entry, the application fee is £28.95, and you can make a maximum of 5 choices.
For the 2025 cycle, UCAS is removing the undergraduate application fee for any student who is/or has received Free School Meals (FSM) during the last six years, up until the end of their final year at school or college. More information on the UCAS fee waiver can be found here.
For all applicants, there are full instructions at UCAS to make it as easy as possible for you to fill in your online application, plus help text where appropriate. Full details of all tuition fees can be found here.