The module will examine definitions of physical, sexual, racial and emotional abuse and allow students to examine their own feelings towards abuse and neglect.

Students will examine the legislative framework and national policy relating to child protection. Investigate changes from intervention to prevention approaches within universal services and the role of children's centres.

Students will review the terms used within the area of children protection and examine the problematic nature of the phrase "at risk" and how children can be helped to protect themselves. Consider differing perspectives of childhood and culture to competency and vulnerability.

They will consider how to provide information about suspected abuse within agreed professional boundaries of confidentiality, and distinguish clearly between evidence directly observed and information gathered from other reliable sources.

Consider the boundaries and limitations of their roles and responsibilities, when to make referral to specialist services and how to contribute to the overall process.

A range of teaching and learning strategies will be employed, including lectures, seminars, DVDs, one to one tutorials, presentations and case studies. Peer group discussion will allow students to share ideas and experiences and will encourage reflection and evaluation.

An ESSAY length 3000 WORDS weighted at 100% (LOs 1-5)

Write an essay demonstrating your understanding of child abuse, investigating and critically evaluating contemporary issues, theories and debates in relation to safeguarding children. Critically analyse the role of practitioners in developing strategies and supporting families, taking into account the impact of abuse on all those involved. Critically evaluate your findings in relation to relevant legislation, policy changes, parental and interagency co-operation.

Formative Assessment:
This will take place throughout the module in the form of informal observations, questioning, discussion, group work and attendance monitoring. Regular feedback, from the module tutor and through the personal tutor system, will take place. Generic plans and the structure of the essay will be reviewed at appropriate times throughout the module.

Multi-media classroom resources, access to university library resources, Blackboard

Barker, J., and Hodes, D., (2007), The Child in Mind, London, Routledge.
DES,(2006), Working Together to Safeguard Children: Every Child Matters: Change for Children, London, TSO
Jones, P., Moss, D.,Tomlinson and Welch S., (2008), Childhood Services and Provision for Children, Essex, Pearson.
Lindon, J., (2008), Safeguarding Children and Young People: Child Protection 0-18 years, GB, Hodder Arnold
Wilson, K. and James, A., (2007), The Child Protection Handbook, GB, Bailliere Tindall

1. Discuss and critically evaluate the current legal framework for safeguarding children and how this relates to a variety of settings
Knowledge and Understanding

2. Analyse the impact of abuse and neglect on the child, family, cultural community and work setting. Analysis

3. Analyse and critically evaluate practical strategies to prevent abuse and safeguard children within an early years setting
Analysis
Application

4. Understand the rights and responsibilities of parents/carers
Knowledge and Understanding

5. Critically evaluate the role of the professional in relation to child protection procedures, risk management, information sharing and the importance of interagency co-operation.
Communication
Problem Solving