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Health Play Specialism

University-Level Courses

The Health Play Specialism Department

Health Play Specialism: A work-based, part-time course. 


Health Play Specialists provide play-based interventions to help children, young people and families cope with and understand their hospital experience.

The structure and timings of our courses are designed for those with busy working and family lives to develop essential skills for planning your studies, academic writing, engagement with research and literature, critical reflection and analysis of your practice.

What to Expect

Our staff are experienced practitioners, not only in the field of early years but in the multi-disciplinary areas of health and social services. They are passionate about providing higher education pathways which combines academic study with work-based learning for those who would like to remain in work whilst studying.

Our Staff

Julie McLarnon

Julie’s social work background, direct work with young children and experience as a Government advisor, independent consultant and author has equipped her with the knowledge and competence to teach to a very high standard. Julie is an experienced and well qualified HE Lecturer across a broad range of subjects. She is passionate about good quality, academic learning & practice development and dedicated to supporting the students she teaches so that they fulfil their potential.

Norma Jun-Tai

Norma is a registered Health Play Specialist and experienced HE lecturer with an MA in Education. She represents the profession of Health Play Specialists on a national level and endeavours to share her professional experiences with the students she has the pleasure of teaching.

Photograph of a Nescot student

"You’re training to work in a non-clinical role, using play to support children who are unwell. The qualification is exactly like the job: challenging and demanding, but incredibly rewarding. You’re taught by two tutors who have amazing experience in very different areas, which helps you develop a balanced perspective. I’m proud to say that I now work at a prestigious children’s hospital."

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