PGCE Primary (3-11) with recommendation for QTS
Foundation
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Discover how professional development supports inclusive practice and classroom confidence. The BA (Hons) Primary Education 3–11 with Recommendation for QTS at Birmingham Newman University offers an inspiring and values-led route into the teaching profession. If you are passionate about supporting children’s development and helping every learner flourish, this course provides both the academic grounding and practical experience you need. You will explore how children learn across the primary age range, while developing essential skills in lesson planning, classroom management and inclusive teaching. From your first day, you will be part of a university community that empowers you to grow, reflect and lead with integrity.
Why study this course?
This course is ideal for individuals who are passionate about making a difference in children’s lives and want to pursue a meaningful and rewarding career in education. Whether you are just beginning your journey into teaching or returning to study with experience, the BA (Hons) Primary Education 3–11 with Recommendation for QTS offers a values-led and professionally grounded route into the classroom. It combines academic depth with practical experience, enabling you to develop the knowledge, skills and confidence needed to support all learners. With a strong emphasis on inclusive practice, reflective teaching and real-world relevance, the course prepares you to thrive in a variety of educational settings and contribute positively to school communities.
‘Undertaking this programme will not only train you to become a competent and confident primary school teacher, but it will also train you to become a Birmingham Newman teacher. A Birmingham Newman teacher has the child at the centre of everything they say and do. The programme will equip you with a deep understanding of how children develop and learn as well as providing you with a range of current and research-led pedagogy to use to provide the best possible education for the children you teach in your rewarding career in teaching.’ Steve Patrick B.Ed (Hons) M.Ed PGCHE FHEA), Undergraduate – Primary ITE Programme Lead
Explore the Foundations of Effective Teaching
Throughout the course, you will study the full primary curriculum, including English, Mathematics, Science and foundation subjects, alongside essential areas such as child development, safeguarding and professional standards. You will also engage with key educational frameworks, including the National Curriculum, the Early Years Foundation Stage and SEND guidance, developing strategies to support diverse learners with care and confidence. Practical experience is woven into your learning through school placements, ITAP weeks and interactive workshops that mirror the realities of classroom life. These opportunities help you to build your teaching toolkit, develop your professional identity and prepare for a wide range of roles in education.
Supportive and Personalised Learning
At Birmingham Newman University, you will be part of a close-knit and inclusive academic community that places your personal and professional development at the heart of everything we do. The course is delivered by experienced educators who are committed to supporting your growth as a reflective and confident practitioner. With small group teaching, regular feedback and one-to-one mentoring, you will be encouraged to explore your strengths, overcome challenges and find your teaching voice. This supportive environment empowers you to take ownership of your learning and progress with clarity and purpose, whether you choose to work in mainstream, SEND or faith-based settings, or pursue further study or leadership roles.

Got a question you’d like to ask?
Apply for PGCE courses on DfE Apply. We recommend an application is made as early as possible, once the DfE portal has opened. A UK Bachelors Degree (or recognised equivalent qualification). GCSE English Language, Mathematics and Science at grade 4 (or C) or above (or recognised equivalents). Please be aware that whilst these GCSEs are not mandatory at application point, these qualifications must be obtained by enrolment. See our page for additional GCSE equivalency information. Students will also be required to be assured against a set of fundamental maths, science and English skills by the end of their initial teacher training. For further information about the Interview Process see our ITE Interview page. You will need to obtain Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) clearance and meet the requirements for fitness to train to teach prior to starting the course.
The full-time course fee, for UK home students, for September 2025 is: £9,535
Additional Costs
The University will review tuition fees and increase fees in line with any inflationary uplift as determined by the UK Government, if permitted by law or government policy, in subsequent years of your course. It is anticipated that such increases would be linked to RPI (the Retail Price Index excluding mortgage interest payments).
Check out our blog/news/events

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Placement Information
Placements are a central part of your development on this course, giving you the opportunity to apply your learning in real classroom settings across the full primary age range, including 3 to 7, 5 to 11 and 7 to 11. Each year, you will undertake school placements that are carefully structured to build your confidence and competence over time. You will be supported throughout by experienced school-based mentors and university tutors who offer personalised feedback and guidance. In addition to placements, undergraduate trainees take part in six Intensive Training and Practice (ITAP) weeks across the three years of study, with two ITAPs per year. These focus on key areas such as behaviour management, assessment for learning, SEND inclusion and phonics and early reading. These experiences are designed to deepen your understanding of effective teaching and prepare you for the realities of the profession.

Where This Course Can Take You. Upon successful completion, you will be awarded Qualified Teacher Status (QTS), confirmed by the Department for Education. Newman graduates are highly regarded across the UK for their creativity, commitment and sense of purpose. Whether you choose to teach in mainstream, SEND or faith-based settings, or pursue leadership or further study, you will be equipped to make a meaningful difference in children’s lives. You’ll also join a dynamic network of educators who continue to support and inspire one another well beyond graduation.
Accreditations and Exemptions
Upon successful completion of the course and demonstration of the Teachers’ Standards, you will be awarded Qualified Teacher Status (QTS), confirmed by the Department for Education. Birmingham Newman University is recognised by Ofsted as a GOOD provider of Initial Teacher Education (2024), reflecting the quality of its academic teaching and placement support. While the course does not offer exemptions from other professional bodies, it provides a strong foundation for continued professional development, including progression to postgraduate qualifications such as the MA Education. It also opens pathways into leadership roles and specialist areas within the education sector.
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