The Children's Rights and Child Protection programme is a Level 9 module that examines children's rights, welfare and protection within Irish and international legal frameworks. It explores the relationship between the child, family and state, and considers how rights-based approaches can support the wellbeing, participation and protection of children.
The programme provides learners with a critical understanding of children's rights under the Irish Constitution, national legislation, European human rights instruments and the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC). It is particularly relevant for professionals working with children, young people and families across education, social care, youth work, health, community development and related sectors.
This programme examines the legal, policy and practice frameworks that shape children's rights and child protection in Ireland and internationally.
You will explore the rights of children in areas such as family life, education, healthcare, identity and participation, while examining how these rights are protected and implemented through legislation and public policy. The programme considers key principles including the best interests of the child, non-discrimination and the child's right to be heard.
Learners will develop an understanding of the different categories of children's rights, including survival, development, protection and participation rights, and examine how these rights operate in practice. Topics such as adoption, child abduction, assisted human reproduction, children's rights advocacy and the role of national and international organisations are also explored.
A significant focus is placed on child protection law and policy. You will examine the responsibilities of Tusla and other statutory agencies under the Child Care Act 1991 and the Children First Act 2015, together with issues relating to voluntary care, care proceedings, child protection interventions, residential care and family reunification. The programme also considers the challenges involved in balancing children's rights with family and parental rights in public law matters.
Through critical analysis of legislation, policy and practice, learners will develop the ability to evaluate child welfare systems, examine contemporary issues affecting children and contribute to rights-based approaches to professional practice.
All applicants will be considered on a case-by-case basis. Lifelong Learning reserves the right to require applicants to attend for an interview to determine their suitability for the programme
The programme supports professional development for those working with children, young people and families across a wide range of sectors, including social care, education, youth work, childcare, family support, healthcare and community services.
The knowledge and skills developed are relevant to roles involving child welfare, safeguarding, advocacy, policy development, family support and children's services. Learners will be better equipped to understand and apply children's rights principles within their professional practice and contribute to services that promote the wellbeing and protection of children.
This module forms part of the Master of Arts in Child, Youth and Family Studies. Learners who successfully complete the module may use it as credit towards the overall Level 9 qualification.
Explore our Postgraduate Prospectus to view the full range of postgraduate study options, including course details, entry requirements, and progression routes. Download the prospectus to help you choose the programme that best suits your goals.
