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The BA (Hons) Childhood (Psychology) course has been replaced with BA (Hons) Childhood and Psychology.  

Why NTU?

What inspired you to study BA (Hons) Childhood (Psychology)?

"I have a long-term aspiration to become a Child Psychotherapist. Initially I planned on studying straight Psychology but, due to COVID, I did not get the grades needed. However, this worked in my favour as I stumbled upon this course in clearing and it appealed to my interests so much - mainly as I am interested in the development of children in all sectors and contributing factors to it."

Why did you choose your course and NTU?

"Childhood (Psychology) stood out to me due to its heavy focus on exploring the different ways children develop. I am working towards becoming a Childhood Psychotherapist and through this course I have gained an in depth understanding of child development which will help me to recognise developmental problems early on.

Moreover, studying at NTU I have been able to access many opportunities, such as one to one sessions with the library team to develop my academic writing and, more importantly, career opportunities.

For instance, next month I will be completing a placement at a SEN school in Sherwood. Such opportunities are beneficial as they allow me to explore different scenarios and best ways to help the child alongside understanding communication with parents. This is important to understand, as being a psychotherapist specifically for children, you are required to explain the child's behaviour in developmental terms and provide parents with appropriate strategies to support their child's emotional and social development."

What’s your experience been like of your course so far?

"Studying Childhood (Psychology) at NTU has been so rewarding. Besides studying a topic I have real interest in, the support from the University is great. The academic team, in particular, are so friendly and helpful. You always know you can confide in them for academic and personal issues. The passion they show for the topics they teach is so empowering for us as students. NTU also provides opportunities for practical experiences. For example, we were given the opportunity to explore forest schools near the university and my coursemates and I built a fort together. This experience was informative and fun."

Have you been involved in any projects or extra-curricular activities that have supplemented your studies run through NTU?

"I have participated in many extra-curricular activities at NTU such as being secretary for the African Caribbean Society, being a Collaborative Engagement and Retention Team (CERT) mentor and being a course representative twice. Being a course representative has supplemented my learning in many ways. For instance, it has increased my engagement as the role requires me to be more engaged with the material in order to represent my peers' interests and opinions."

Social sciences

What does Social Sciences mean to you?

"As an aspiring Child Psychotherapist, Social Sciences are incredibly important. Social Sciences refer to the study of human society and social relationships. As a Child Psychotherapist, you will work with children and families from various cultural, socioeconomic and ethnic backgrounds. Understanding of social sciences will then help to understand the complexities of human behaviour, emotions, and social dynamics. It will allow you to identify and analyse the environmental, social and psychological factors that influence a child's behaviour and mental health."

The next steps

How is NTU helping you achieve your career goals?

"NTU has a huge range of opportunities that may help you get a job over another candidate. For instance, my course informed us of a webinar for jobs within the NHS with the Nottinghamshire team and through this experience and further talks with the team, I was able to secure a clinical placement at one of the hospitals."

Advice

What top tips would you give anyone thinking about studying your course at NTU?

"Go with a positive mindset! There are a vast range of opportunities offered to you and the university has a lot of support in place should you need it."