Childhood and Youth Studies (Welsh medium) BA (Hons)

The Childhood and Youth Studies (Welsh-medium) BA (Hons) at Bangor University offers students a rich grounding in the psychological, social, educational, and linguistic aspects of child and youth development — all taught through the medium of Welsh. It suits individuals who are passionate about working with children and young people in Welsh-speaking communities, and who wish to understand developmental, social, and family contexts with a bilingual cultural dimension.

Curriculum Structure

Year 1
In the first year, students explore foundational topics including childhood across history and society, children’s communication and early literacy, and the basics of how young people grow and learn in social contexts. They study modules similar to Children and Society and Literacy for Life: Developing Children’s Communication, Language and Literacy, gaining insight into how childhood is shaped by family, society, and culture — and how communication and literacy develop early in life. They also begin building awareness of children’s needs and educational contexts in Welsh-medium environments, preparing them to engage later with Welsh-language youth and community settings.

Year 2
In the second year, the programme deepens by addressing issues such as inclusion, additional learning needs, and wellbeing. Students study modules like Inclusion and Welsh Learning Needs, examining how to support children and young people with diverse needs in Welsh-medium education or community settings. They also explore topics around youth wellbeing, emotional and mental health, family and parenting contexts, and social support systems, equipping them to understand and respond to the varied realities children face.

Year 3
In the final year, students can specialise according to their interests: for example by taking modules focusing on bilingualism, family and community support, or working with vulnerable youth. Options may include studies on multilingual childhood development, working with families in challenging circumstances, or other advanced topics relevant to youth studies in Welsh contexts. This stage also involves opportunities for work placements or community engagement, giving students practical experience in youth work, social care, educational settings, or policy-oriented roles within Welsh-speaking communities.

Focus Areas
“Child development · Youth wellbeing · Early literacy & communication · Inclusion & additional learning needs · Family & community support · Welsh-medium social and educational contexts”

Learning Outcomes
“Understand childhood and youth from psychological, sociological, and educational perspectives; appreciate how language, culture, and society influence development in Welsh-speaking settings; assess and support children’s communication and learning needs; engage with inclusive, culturally aware practices; apply knowledge in real-world settings such as youth work, education, family support or community services; contribute positively to children’s and young people’s challenges within Welsh-medium contexts.”

Professional Alignment (Accreditation)
The programme is designed to prepare students for a variety of careers involving children and young people — including youth work, social care, community support, early years education support, and roles in non-profit or public sector services working with youth or families. Its Welsh-medium orientation makes graduates especially valuable in Welsh-speaking communities.

Reputation (Employability & Satisfaction)
The Childhood and Youth Studies Welsh-medium course recently achieved very high overall satisfaction in the National Student Survey, reflecting strong student approval. The degree's blend of theory, practical work placements, and social relevance makes it respected among employers and relevant to contemporary social needs.