MOOC: Caring for Vulnerable Children

FutureLearn, University of Strathclyde and CELCIS

This MOOC (Massive Open Online Course) helps you explore and develop an understanding of the approaches involved in caring for vulnerable children.

In times of austerity and shrinking public services, the task of identifying and caring for vulnerable children has never been more challenging. The MOOC explores some of the issues involved in undertaking this task. It’ll consider: 

  • What we mean by risk and vulnerability
  • How we define parenting
  • How children grow and develop
  • How we can provide children with security through meaningful relationships and attachments

You'll go on to learn about the characteristics that define different methods of practice and how some approaches can help you to resist risk-averse thinking. You'll consider different possible interventions and how, in Scotland, this is managed within the Children's Hearing System.

Who should take this course?

It’s suitable for anyone who may come into contact with children who are vulnerable, such as:

  • Children’s Panel members
  • Social workers
  • Teachers
  • Nurses
  • Foster carers
  • Childminders
  • Social care workers
  • Those considering, going through, or have already adopted a child
  • Anyone with an interest in this area

No special software is required and the course is accessible on mobile, tablet and desktop.

The Caring for Vulnerable Children MOOC is delivered through FutureLearn in partnership with the University of Strathclyde and CELCIS.

The course is run over six weeks, and you can choose where and when you learn.