Child and Young Person IAPT Management

Child and Young Person IAPT Management is a specialized postgraduate programme designed to equip health professionals with the essential skills and knowledge required to deliver effective mental health services to children and adolescents. Delivered by University College London, this course focuses on the development and management of Improving Access to Psychological Therapies (IAPT) services tailored specifically for young populations. Throughout the programme, students will explore evidence-based therapeutic approaches, including cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), and learn how to implement these interventions within diverse settings such as schools, clinics, and community organizations. The curriculum emphasizes understanding developmental psychology, assessment techniques, and treatment planning aimed at children and young people experiencing common mental health issues like anxiety, depression, and behavioural problems. Participants will also develop a comprehensive understanding of service delivery models, risk management, and ethical considerations pertinent to youth mental health care. The course combines theoretical learning with practical training, including case studies, supervised practice, and opportunities for interprofessional collaboration. Designed for clinicians, psychologists, mental health practitioners, and managers aiming to enhance their expertise in young people's mental health services, this programme prepares graduates for leadership roles within NHS and non-NHS settings. By the end of the programme, students will be proficient in managing complex cases, developing youth-specific intervention strategies, and improving service accessibility and quality. Additionally, the programme emphasizes the importance of working in partnership with families, schools, and other stakeholders to promote holistic care approaches. Upon completion, graduates will be equipped to contribute effectively to the development of mental health services for children and young people, addressing both clinical and service management aspects to enhance outcomes and overall wellbeing.

This programme provides specialist post-qualification training for CAMHS Service Leads within the CYP IAPT model, following the curriculum specified by the Department of Health.

Students undertake two modules to the value of 60 credits.

The programme consists of two core modules, each worth 30 credits.

Core modules

The Postgraduate Certificate in CYP IAPT Management course is divided into two core modules which run in parallel over the year.

• CYP-IAPT: CAMHS Service & Clinical Leadership: Embedding CYP IAPT through Cultural Change 1
• CYP-IAPT: CAMHS Service & Clinical Leadership: Embedding CYP IAPT through Cultural Change 2

There are no optional modules for this programme.

Teaching and learning

The programme is delivered at the Anna Freud National Centre for Children and Families, and is taught by leading practitioners in the field. The course is made up of 12 formal teaching days spread over the year, and four study days. Teaching is a combination of classes, tutorials, small group workshops, seminars and supervised project work. Assessment is through written assignments, oral assessment and a project report of 5,000-8,000 words.

Normally a minimum of a second-class Bachelor's degree from a UK university or an overseas qualification of an equivalent standard in a relevant subject (e.g. psychology) and/or a registerable professional qualification in a relevant subject (e.g. medicine, psychology, social work) from a UK university or overseas professional qualification of an equivalent standard. Candidates without a degree, but with a minimum of three years professional experience in a CAMHS (or equivalent) setting together with a relevant professional qualification will also be considered.

Want to improve your English level for admission?

Prepare for the program requirements with English Online by the British Council.

• ✔️ Flexible study schedule
• ✔️ Experienced teachers
• ✔️ Certificate upon completion

📘 Recommended for students with an IELTS level of 6.0 or below.

Enroll in the course

Funding for the Child and Young Person IAPT Management program at University College London is available through a variety of channels designed to support both domestic and international students. The program may be eligible for government-funded student loans and grants, particularly for UK residents, which can cover tuition fees and provide living cost support. Tuition fee amounts are published annually and may differ for Home, EU, and international students, with potential fee waivers or scholarships available to outstanding applicants. UCL also offers a range of scholarships, bursaries, and financial aid options specifically aimed at postgraduate students pursuing mental health and Wellbeing-related programmes. These scholarships are awarded based on academic merit, financial need, or specific criteria such as principal areas of interest or previous experience in mental health fields.

Funding can also be obtained via external scholarships and fellowships from health organizations, mental health charities, and government health initiatives that prioritize training professionals in child and adolescent mental health services. Some students may access support through employer sponsorships or training grants, especially those already working within healthcare or educational settings aiming to specialize in child and young person mental health. Additionally, the university provides information about part-time work opportunities on or off campus, designed to help students fund their studies and gaining practical experience simultaneously.

International students should explore options such as international student loans, private scholarships, or sponsorships offered by their home country or international health education funds. UCL’s financial support office provides dedicated guidance on navigating available funding streams, application procedures, and deadlines for each support option. The university recognizes the importance of accessibility and inclusion, and thus offers tailored advice for students from diverse financial backgrounds to access sustainable funding solutions. While specific scholarships or grants for this program may vary year by year, prospective students are encouraged to contact UCL’s admissions or financial aid offices for the most current and detailed information on available funding options.

The Child and Young Person IAPT Management program at University College London is designed to equip students with the essential skills and knowledge required to manage mental health services for children and young people effectively. This program emphasizes a comprehensive understanding of the psychological, developmental, and social factors influencing mental health in young populations. It aims to prepare mental health professionals to lead and manage IAPT (Improving Access to Psychological Therapies) services tailored specifically for children and adolescents. The curriculum integrates theoretical foundations with practical applications, including evidence-based interventions, service management, and policy development. Students will explore topics such as child development, therapeutic techniques for young people, ethical considerations, and the organization of mental health services. The program also encourages critical thinking about service delivery models, innovative approaches to engaging young clients, and the integration of digital technologies into therapy. Additionally, students have opportunities for research project work and case studies, which foster a deep understanding of the complexities faced by children and young people's mental health services. The program may involve collaborations with NHS Trusts and other mental health organizations, providing students with valuable real-world experience. Graduates of this program are prepared for leadership roles within mental health services, policy development, consultancy, and research, working to improve access and quality of psychological interventions for young people. The program is delivered through a mix of lectures, seminars, workshops, and placements, ensuring that students gain both theoretical insight and practical skills in child and adolescent mental health management.