Students from 23 countries study special needs

Pioneering degree course attracts students from around the world

First published 7 Jul 2008

Fourteen international students are celebrating graduation success, having achieved a Batchelor of Arts Degree in Curative Education (B.A.C.E) at the University of Aberdeen.

The part time degree programme is offered through a partnership between the Camphill Rudolf Steiner Schools in Aberdeen and the University of Aberdeen and currently has 94 students from 23 countries all over the world including Kazakhstan, Botswana, Japan, Israel and the Philippines. 

The training is work based and integrates elements of care, education, therapeutic and creative activities in the work with adults and children with complex special needs.  This degree is recognised by the Scottish Social Services Council as a professional qualification for employment in the care sector.

The majority of the students are volunteer co-workers in Camphill communities in the UK and Ireland, with many from the six Camphill Aberdeen City and Shire communities.  More than 700 people live and work in the six Camphill communities in Camphill Aberdeen City and Shire.

The wide interest in the B.A.C.E. programme reflects the international nature of the Camphill Movement. The Camphill Movement, founded in Aberdeen in 1940 and taking its name from the Camphill Estate in Milltimber now extends to 100 centres in 23 countries dedicated to helping children and adults with special needs.

Norma Hart from the University of Aberdeen comments:

“This pioneering degree attracts students year after year, from all over the world.  This gives students the opportunity to undertake work based degree level training, with children and adults with complex needs.” 

“For many of the students, English is their second language and before beginning the degree they have had to learn the language and pass an English test – a huge task in itself.  I would like to congratulate our students on their achievements and look forward to welcoming the 21 new students who will begin their studies in August.”

• For further information on the B.A.C.E programme visit www.abdn.ac.uk/education/courses/curative or contact Norma Hart on 01224 272000 or Angelika Monteux on 01224 864242

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