This module provides a foundation of understanding for students to contextualise into their own ministerial context. It includes the National Occupational Standards for playwork and their application to practice. It introduces the GRACE Foundations for Ministry that students learn to apply to their own ministerial context, and it promotes the Principles and Values of Playwork as a framework for good practice relevant to Christian work with children and families.
Students become aware of a range of approaches to ministry and develop an understanding of their own faith context. Students learn different approaches to play, its importance to child development and how to design, implement and evaluate play activities. Students gain skills as a reflective and theologically reflective practitioner.

This module incorporates several inter-related learning strategies. The interactive learning groups will provide lectures and seminars involving a combination of group activities, student led work, simulations, skills practice, discussion etc. The independent study provides opportunity for reading, library based and online research. The remote learning in the professional practice work place will help develop professional skills.

Brown F & Taylor C (ed) (2008) Foundations of Playwork. Maidenhead: OUP
Copsey, K. (2005) From the Ground Up. Barnabas
Else P (2009) The value of play. London: Continuum
Frost J (2010) A history of children's play and play environments: towards a contemporary child-saving moment. Oxon: Routledge
Gill T (2007) No fear - growing up in a risk averse society. London: Calouste Gulbenkian Foundation
Kilvington F & Wood A (2010) Reflective Playwork Practice - for all who work with children. Continuum
White K (2010) Reflections on living with children. London: WTL Publications
White K (2008) The growth of love - understanding 5 essential elements of child development. Abingdon: BRF

Interactive whiteboard and data projectors
On-site library and internet access to Staffordshire University Library
Access to internet connected PCs
Appropriately equipped and accessible lecture rooms
Practice based: appropriately equipped office/study space, admin support, meeting rooms, art/craft resources, volunteer team

Coursework 100%:
Portfolio demonstrating the learning outcomes in practice setting and consisting of journals, a directed task, additional evidence, observation, and self, peer and tutor evaluations. This should also demonstrate assessed practice representing 364 hours and assessed by the Professional Practice Tutor as 'safe to practice' at the foundation level.