Early Primary Education (Initial Teacher Training)

Course overview

Throughout your studies you will explore the different ways in which children develop and learn, and how you can support this process. You will examine the importance of professional values, classroom organisation and management. Key themes integral to your studies will include working with parents and other professionals, creativity, equality, inclusion, and ICT.

You will focus on young children's holistic learning needs. You will develop your knowledge, skills and understanding of the early primary curriculum, and approaches to effective teaching. You will have opportunities to reflect on strategies for learning and teaching, development of subject knowledge, and consider the latest policies and initiatives.

Over the course you will complete 24 weeks practical teaching experience in school. Placements will be in three different schools, where you will be supported by a supervisor from our University, and a trained school-based mentor. Strong links with schools within our region enable us to provide excellent training placements.

In your third year, you will have the opportunity to develop your interest in a particular curriculum area, and to undertake a detailed investigation into an area of interest related to primary education. Throughout your course we will support your development as an inspired, and inspiring teacher.

MODULE GUIDE

Year one core modules

• Understanding Teaching and Learning in the Primary Classroom
• Communication and Language
• Children's Development in Early Primary Contexts
• Early Years Pedagogy
• The Core Early Primary Curriculum
• Concepts in Mathematics and Science
• Teaching Mathematics and Science

Year two core modules

• Creative Literacies and Developing Creativity in the Curriculum
• Themes in Education
• Early Primary Curriculum
• Diversity and Early Primary Practice
• Extending Learning in Mathematics/Science/Literacy

Year three core modules

• Professional Development and Leadership
• Major Project: Teacher as Researcher
• Special Study
• Inclusion

Assessment

Assessment is carried out via module assignments, evaluation of practical teaching within schools, and production of a Professional Development Portfolio. Module assessment takes various forms, which have been carefully designed to provide you with a variety of ways of reaching success.

Dedication: Full-time.