Primary Education 5-11 (QTS) BA (Hons)

Course Content

• Course Details

  This primary education degree with QTS has been designed to contribute towards achieving the following United Nations Sustainable Development Goal: SDG4 Quality Education.

  You will develop the skills, knowledge and understanding that you need to become a creative teacher who will be able to make a significant difference to the lives of children. In doing so you will demonstrate the professional standards for teaching the 5 to 11 age range as required by the Department for Education. We are committed to ensuring you achieve a high quality primary education degree with QTS.

  School-Based Placements

  School-based placements are integral to this course where you will complete carefully sequenced school-based directed activities, incrementally increase your teaching and classroom responsibilities and develop an e-portfolio to record your progress.

  You will have a variety of school-based placements across Key Stage 1 and Key Stage 2 giving you a breadth of teaching experience. You will have a trained mentor in each school-based training placement as well as an allocated tutor at the University to support your professional development.

  Please note the modules shown here relate to the academic year 23/24. The modules relating to the academic year 24/25 will be available from June 2024.

  • Stage 1
    • Professional Studies (10 Credits)
      Module code: ITT1028

      Status: Compulsory
      The purpose of this module is to develop students' understanding of primary school organisation, current curriculum structures and the range of factors which impact on children's cognitive, social and emotional development. It will also develop students' awareness of the professional skills and attitudes that they will need to develop, including the ethical and legal responsibilities of professional teachers.
    • Practitioner Researcher (10 Credits)
      Module code: ITT1029

      Status: Compulsory
      The purpose of this module is to introduce students to the theory and practice of practitioner research.
    • The Developing Teacher of English (10 Credits)
      Module code: ITT1030

      Status: Compulsory
      The purpose of this module is to introduce students to the theory and practice of the fundamental aspects of language and literacy learning and teaching. Students will develop an understanding of curriculum expectations and strengthen their subject content pedagogy, knowledge and skills.
    • The Developing Teacher of Mathematics (10 Credits)
      Module code: ITT1031

      Status: Compulsory
      The purpose of this module is to introduce students to the theory and practice of the fundamental aspects of mathematics learning and teaching. Students will develop an understanding of curriculum expectations and strengthen their subject content pedagogy, knowledge and skills.
    • The Developing Teacher of Science and Design and Technology (10 Credits)
      Module code: ITT1032

      Status: Compulsory
      The purpose of this module is to introduce students to the theory and practice of the fundamental aspects of science and design and technology learning and teaching. Students will develop an understanding of curriculum expectations and strengthen their subject content pedagogy, knowledge and skills.
    • The Developing Teacher of the Wider Primary Curriculum (30 Credits)
      Module code: ITT1033

      Status: Compulsory
      The purpose of this module is to provide an introduction to the principles of the knowledge, skills and concepts relating to the wider curriculum. This will enable students to identify the place and value of the wider curriculum, underpinned by appropriate academic and pedagogical knowledge.
    • Developing Expertise as a Primary Teacher (10 Credits)
      Module code: ITT1034

      Status: Compulsory
      The purpose of this module is to introduce students to theories of education, government policy and key terminology to inform the development of expertise as a primary teacher including breadth and depth of subject knowledge.
    • School Experience Primary 1a (Alternative) (10 Credits)
      Module code: ITT1035

      Status: Designate
      The purpose of this module is an opportunity for students to demonstrate their understanding of the role and responsibilities of a primary teacher and knowledge of curriculum requirements for the early years of the primary school.
    • School Experience Primary 1a (10 Credits)
      Module code: ITT1035P

      Status: Compulsory
      The purpose of this module is to introduce students to the role and responsibilities of a primary school teacher and develop knowledge of curriculum requirements of the primary school. To apply learning from Intensive Training and Practice.
    • School Experience Primary 1b (Alternative) (20 Credits)
      Module code: ITT1036

      Status: Designate
      The purpose of this module is an opportunity for students to demonstrate their understanding of the role, responsibilities, and behaviours of a primary teacher. To demonstrate knowledge of curriculum requirements.
    • School Experience Primary 1b (20 Credits)
      Module code: ITT1036P

      Status: Compulsory
      The purpose of this module is to develop students? understanding of the role, and responsibilities, and behaviours of a primary teacher. Students will and develop knowledge of curriculum requirements within a primary school through planning, teaching and evaluating practice within the primary curriculum. Students will apply learning from Intensive Training and Practice focusing on SSP, early reading and behaviour.
  • Stage 2
    • Professional Studies (20 Credits)
      Module code: ITT2040

      Status: Compulsory
      The purpose of this module is to enable students to understand the diversity of children's needs and prepare them for their increasing professional responsibilities in respect of inclusion, assessment, planning and child protection. It is underpinned by research.
    • Enriching the Teaching of English (10 Credits)
      Module code: ITT2041

      Status: Compulsory
      The purpose of this module is to enhance students' ability to select and explain approaches to learning about primary English, with reference to research. Students will learn how to support all children, so that progress and engagement with English can be evidenced and promoted.
    • Enriching the Teaching of Mathematics (10 Credits)
      Module code: ITT2042

      Status: Compulsory
      The purpose of this module is to enhance students? ability to select and explain approaches to learning to teach primary mathematics, with reference to research. Students will learn how to support all children so that progress and engagement with mathematics can be evidenced and promoted.
    • Enriching the Teaching of Science (10 Credits)
      Module code: ITT2043

      Status: Compulsory
      The purpose of this module is to enhance students' ability to select and explain approaches to learning to teach primary Science, with reference to research. Students will learn how to support all children, so that progress and engagement with science can be evidenced and promoted.
    • Enriching the Teaching of the Wider Primary Curriculum (30 Credits)
      Module code: ITT2044

      Status: Compulsory
      The purpose of this module is to consolidate and extend students' subject and pedagogical knowledge in each of the primary wider curriculum subjects and the links between them; to draw upon research and practice associated with interdisciplinary learning, including real world contexts and problem solving approaches, relevant to primary education.
    • Enriching the Expert Primary Teacher (10 Credits)
      Module code: ITT2045

      Status: Compulsory
      The purpose of this module is to further develop students' knowledge and understanding of enhancing whole school initiatives through using subject expertise.
    • School Experience Primary 2a (Alternative) (10 Credits)
      Module code: ITT2046

      Status: Designate
      The purpose of this module is to develop students' understanding of the role of a subject leader in primary schools through collaborative planning, teaching and assessment of a cross-curricular project.
    • School Experience Primary 2a (10 Credits)
      Module code: ITT2046P

      Status: Compulsory
      The purpose of this module is to develop students' understanding of the role of a subject leader in primary schools through collaborative planning, teaching and assessment of a cross-curricular project.
    • School Experience Primary 2b (Alternative) (20 Credits)
      Module code: ITT2047

      Status: Designate
      The purpose of this module is to develop students' understanding of how to meet the needs of all pupils through planning, teaching and assessment.
    • School Experience Primary 2b (20 Credits)
      Module code: ITT2047P

      Status: Compulsory
      The purpose of this module is to develop students' understanding and ability to meet the needs of all pupils through planning, teaching and assessment for the whole class across a range of subjects in the primary curriculum for the whole class during a placement. To apply learning from Intensive Teaching and Practice.
  • Stage 3
    • Professional Studies (20 Credits)
      Module code: ITT3054

      Status: Compulsory
      The purpose of this module is to enhance knowledge in effective professional practice through engaging with research, national priorities, curriculum expectations and professional development in preparation for employment as a primary school teacher.
    • School Experience Primary 3 (Alternative) (30 Credits)
      Module code: ITT3058

      Status: Designate
      The purpose of this module is to enhance students? understanding and ability to analyse features of effective teaching.
    • School Experience Primary 3 (30 Credits)
      Module code: ITT3058P

      Status: Compulsory
      The purpose of this module is to enhance students? understanding of the roles and responsibilities of a teacher and ability to show appropriate competence.
    • Curriculum Changemakers and Innovators (10 Credits)
      Module code: ITT3060

      Status: Compulsory
      The purpose of this module is enhance students? understanding of curriculum development within primary education, informed by the University?s `Changemaker? strategy and principles.
    • Enhancing the Expert Primary School Teacher (30 Credits)
      Module code: ITT3061

      Status: Compulsory
      The purpose of this module is to enable students to enhance their expertise as primary school teachers, and further devlelop their subject and pedagogical knowledge.
    • Principal module -- Research Project (30 Credits)
      Module code: ITT4005

      Status: Compulsory
      The purpose of this module is to support students in undertaking a small scale research project relevant to the role of a primary school teacher. An independent review of the literature for the identified area of enquiry will take place. Following ethical approval, data will then be gathered in school or other educational settings and then analysed. Implications for own and other professionals' practice will then be identified.

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• Entry Requirements

  All applicants for the BA hons primary education degree must have:

  • a minimum of five GCSE passes at grade C/4 or above prior to starting the course and these must include mathematics, English language or English Literature and science, or recognised equivalent*
  • provide proof of these with original certificates
  • GCSE Double Award in science, you must have a grade C/4 or above.

  * If you are considering taking a GCSE equivalency test, please contact University Admissions for advice before doing so.

  A normal offer would be:

  • BCC at A Level or
  • DMM at BTEC/Cambridge Technical or
  • 45 level 3 credits at Merit for an Access Course or
  • Pass (C and above) at T Level

  We welcome applications from students with a mix of A levels and BTEC/Cambridge Technical qualifications.

  It is considered that you will benefit from school experience before the course starts.

  All offers of a place on the programme are subject to:

  • successful interview by the University*
  • successful Occupational Health Screening*, and
  • a satisfactory Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) report*
  • evidence of original qualification certificates* (copies are not accepted)

  *These  checks are all required prior to enrolment to the programme.

  Intellectual and academic capabilities

  Prior to the award of QTS, providers must assure trainees’ capabilities in English and mathematics. Any work to address shortfalls in English and mathematics must be undertaken by the trainee teacher in addition to other aspects of their training.  It is the trainee’s responsibility to secure Fundamental English and mathematics, whereas responsibility for assurance lies with the provider.

  For more information on how to make an application, please visit our How to Apply page.

  Appeals and complaints

  If you wish to appeal our decision or have cause to complain, please contact the Admissions Office first to see if we can resolve the problem. If you feel you need to take your complaint or appeal further please refer to our University complaints and appeals process and complete the Applicant Complaint and Appeals Form.

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• Fees and Funding

  2024/25 Tuition Fees

  Fees quoted relate to study in the Academic Year 24/25 only and may be subject to inflationary increases in future years.

  • UK – Full Time: £9,250

  2023/24 Tuition Fees

  Fees quoted for the primary education teaching degree with QTS relate to study in the Academic Year 23/24 only and may be subject to inflationary increases in future years.

  • UK – Full Time: £9,250

  Additional costs

  There will be additional costs for travel to placements, optional visits within modules, and paper based materials for recording and storage of evidence. We provide financial support for your placement travel costs according to the annually reviewed process.

  Scholarships and Bursaries

  For information on the scholarships available to you, please see our scholarships page.

  For more information about possible funding options, please visit our Fees and Funding pages.

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• Student Perks

  At the University of Northampton, everything we do, from funded trips to paid internships, is to give you everything you need to make a difference when you leave.

  If you join the BA (Hons) Primary Education Degree at Northampton, you will receive a laptop when your course begins*. The laptops are built to a bespoke custom specification ideal for use in the seminar room, collaborative group work or studying at home.

  Whatever your ambitions, we’re here to help you to achieve them. We’ll support you to identify the skills you’re learning during your course, find your strengths and secure practical experience so that when it comes to applying for jobs or further study you’ll feel confident in standing out from the crowd. We’ve created the Northampton Employment Promise because we are so confident that if you focus on your studies and complete one of our awards you’ll be highly employable by the time you graduate. Putting you in a great position to secure employment or continue your studies.

  To check out the full list of perks, visit our Student Perks page or dedicated International Perks page.

  * UK fee payers only (see Terms and Conditions for further details)

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• FAQs

  How will I learn on the primary education degree?

  You will engage in face to face, online and offsite Learning Events which enable you to reflect and act on university and school-based learning. Throughout the QTS degree you will be supported in your independent and group learning by a range of expert tutors at university and by trained mentors in school.

  How often will I attend university/school?

  Your course consists of university and school-based learning. You will be in school for at least 120 days over the course of your degree. University based days are normally between 9am and 5pm. School-based days will vary according to the requirements of the school and specific placement expectations but general expectations are that you will be in school between 8.15am and 4.30pm.

  What is my weekly commitment to the BA Primary Education degree?

  The commitment to the course is full time – you need to be available five days a week.  However, not all of that time will be face to face teaching.  Sessions in university vary according to the time of year but on average you may have 16 hours face to face teaching.  At other times you may be undertaking reading and writing for assignments or completing pre tasks before coming to sessions.

  Who arranges my school-based placements?

  School-based placements are arranged by the University’s placement and work-based learning team.

  Does my school placement have to be in Northampton?

  We have a partnership of schools that we work with regularly.  The majority of these schools are in the Northamptonshire area but we do work with schools further afield in Milton Keynes, Warwickshire, Leicestershire and Cambridgeshire.

  Your placements will be arranged by our Placements Team based on your term time address and your previous placements.  We ensure a range of placements in terms of types and size of school and the year groups you work in.  Your year 2 and year 3 placements will be in alternate key stages.

  How will I be assessed?

  Assessment is continuous. You will engage in assignments which will contribute towards your Undergraduate Level Modules. Your teaching, including planning and assessment, will be assessed during each school-based placement and you will be assessed against the Teachers’ Standards at the end of your training.  Partner schools share the responsibility for assessment during the practical teaching.

  Is there a reading list?

  The core text is Cremin, T. and Burnett, C. (eds) (2018) Learning to Teach in the Primary School. 4th Ed. Abingdon: Routledge (also available as an eBook).

  Can I work part time alongside my studies?

  You can work part time in the evenings and at weekends but you need to be available to come in to university Monday -Friday, 9am-5pm or 8:15am – 4:30pm when on placement.  You will also find that you need to be more flexible with work hours when on placement in Year 2 and Year 3 to ensure you can fully meet the expectations and keep a good work-life balance.

  What is the starting salary for a Teacher in England?

  From the 1 September 2023 the starting salary for a qualified teacher will be £30,000

  Can I work overseas with a Primary Education QTS degree?

  Yes you can work overseas, dependent on the requirements of the country you are seeking to work in but it is recommended that you complete your ECT Induction in England before you go.

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