Relevant professional qualification recognised by the Children's Workforce Development Council integrated qualifications framework and a minimum of 1 years post qualification experience
Currently working in a role with children, young people, their families and carers.

Calder, M,. (2008) Contemporary Risk Assessment in Safeguarding Children.
Calder M, and Hacket, S. (2003) Assessment in Childcare using and Developing Frameworks for Practice
Daniel, B etal (1999). Child Development for Child Care and Protection Workers
Hamer, M. (2007) Preventing Breakdown a Manual for Childcare professionals working with high risk families.
HM Government Working Together to Safeguard Children, A guide to inter-agency working to Safeguard and Promote the Welfare of Children
HM Government Framework for the Assessment of Children in Need and their Families.
Horwath, J (2001) The Child's World-Assessing Children in Need
Mclaughlin, H. (2007). Understanding Social Work Research
Laming, H. The Protection of Children in England, A progress Report (2009)

Contact Hours: (39)
Learning Days at the University 6 x 6 hours =36hrs
Seminar Workshop for Research Informed Practice=3hrs

Independent Study Hours: (111)
Engagement with Technology Supported Learning=24hrs
Preparation for Seminar Workshops=6hrs
Private Study=81 hrs

This module will form part of the Specialist Children and Young People's Post Qualifying Award. The module aims to equip qualified practitioners working with children, young people, and their families in their NQSW year with the ability to develop increased understanding and awareness of the role of assessment, risk, analysis and decision making in Vulnerable Children and Young People's Social Work Services. Learners will critically evaluate the utility and application of the methods of assessment that are used in contemporary safeguarding and Family Support roles in relation to the support and protection of vulnerable children. The role of Risk Management and underpinning theories will be discussed in promoting effective outcomes and decision making for Children and Young People.

The module will enable students to explore the role of effective decision making based on assessments and care planning that has been completed with Vulnerable Children, Young People and their Families/Carers.

The module will enable students to explore the values and theories influencing contemporary assessment and models for intervention. Students will explore and critique the role they have in promoting the holistic needs of children, young people their families and carers. They will critically reflect upon their role in empowering children, young people, their families and carers and the challenges involved at both a personal, structural and organisational level.

Students will explore the difference between risk management and risk assessment and examine the tensions between the two, drawing upon appropriate research evidence.

Students will develop a critical awareness and evaluation of current research relevant to their area of specialist practice.

A case study from their own specialist area of practice with a critical, research-informed integrated commentary. 3500 Words. LO's 1 to 6.

Additional Assessment Details (include formative feedback / assessment):
Formative Assessment will be:
1. Through non assessed small group presentation where students highlight and critique relevant assessment frameworks that underpin their intervention and care planning with vulnerable children and young people
2. Through small group seminars focussing on relevant research findings

Blackboard, IT facilities and classroom.