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BA Primary Education (3-11) with recommendation for QTS

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BA Primary Education (3-11) with recommendation for QTS

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.

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UK home students You should achieve at least 112 UCAS points, including a minimum of BBC at A level or DMM in a BTEC Extended Diploma or DM in a BTEC Diploma towards the total tariff of 112 points. Access Diploma students will need to have completed the course and achieved a minimum of 112 UCAS points. Please contact admissions@newman.ac.uk for information regarding additional qualifications accepted in meeting the UCAS tariff. Access Students can achieve this with the following combination of Distinction, Merit and/or Pass grades at level 3 achieved from a completed Access course: D30-M0-P15; D27-M6-P12; D24-M12-P9; D21-M18-P6; D18-M24-P3; D15-M30-P0 The University accepts appropriate T Levels as part of its usual entry requirements. 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 on additional GCSE Equivalency test information. Students will also be required to be assured against a set of fundamental maths and English skills by the end of their initial teacher training. School experience is not a requirement for entry onto the programme. However, having experience in a school will support your preparation for training as a teacher. At interview you will be given the opportunity to discuss any relevant school experience or opportunities that you have had to work with school aged children. You will need to obtain Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) and Occupational Health clearance and meet the requirements for fitness to train to teach prior to starting the course. For more information on your DBS application please visit the How do I complete my DBS form advice page. For further information about the Interview Process see our ITE Interview page.

The full-time course fee, for UK home students, for September 2025 is: £9,535

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Planning for learning in the core subjects
20 Credits (Compulsory)

This module provides you with an introduction to the English, mathematics and science National Curriculum. You will begin to develop an understanding of the relationship between the non-statutory guidance and the requirements of the National Curriculum. Reference will also be made to the progression facilitated within these curricula from the Early Years Foundation Stage. Key aspects of subject knowledge within the three core subjects will be addressed and these will be used as a vehicle to explore effective principles and methods of teaching and learning within the primary classroom. You will be introduced to the principles and practices of lesson planning across the three subjects and begin to develop strategies for evaluating the effectiveness of teaching and learning. You will be introduced to ways in which teaching strategies may be matched to identify learner needs. The focus will be upon Key Stage 1 and 2 although links will be made to the Early Years Foundation Stage curriculum and Key Stage 3 as appropriate.

Planning for learning in the foundation subjects
20 Credits (Compulsory)

This module introduces the National Curriculum subjects of Geography & History, Computing, Art & Design, Design & Technology, Music, Physical Education and Foreign Language. You will be able to explore and experiment with a range of pedagogical approaches to the subjects, developing your awareness and understanding of the National Curriculum in each area (and Agreed Syllabus for RE), exploring creative approaches to subject delivery and considering how to plan for and deliver high quality learning experiences which cater for the needs of all learners.

Understanding profesional practice
20 Credits (Compulsory)

The aims for this module are set in the context of the QAA Framework for Higher Education Qualifications and the ITT Core Content Framework (2019). University-based training is provided through the full range of modules undertaken at level 4: these introduce the theoretical, subject and pedagogical knowledge needed to underpin effective classroom practice. This module provides the opportunity to identify and apply these in practice during school-based training in a placement setting, as well as learn about professional duties and requirements. Successful completion of all elements of the module are required to progress on to the level 5 professional practice module, Managing the Classroom. The module includes two placement blocks to enable students to undertake work-related learning. Students are placed in pairs in a school setting to experience the wider life of the school and undertake professional tasks and activities that contribute to children’s learning in different key stages, supported by a School Based Tutor from the setting and an Academic Professional Tutor (acting as Partnership Tutor) from the university. In the first school term (semester 1), the focus is on observing professional behaviours and assisting with teaching core and foundation subjects across curriculum. In the summer term, students return to the same setting (where possible) in order to begin applying some of the pedagogies studied in other modules. During taught sessions, students will also be expected to reflect on aspects of pastoral care, safeguarding, behaviour management and the statutory requirement of Religious Education. Evidence of an appropriate professional standard is necessary for recommendation for Qualified Teacher Status (QTS). This module contributes towards the mandatory requirement

Introduction to professional enquiry
20 Credits (Compulsory)

This module aims to provide students with a secure understanding of the development of learning both in the context of self, as teacher-researcher, and how this can support children in their development and learning outcomes. The module will introduce students to the underlying concepts and principles of educational research, with a particular focus on observational research methods. Students will be given the opportunity to evaluate and interpret both quantitative and qualitative data, grounded in key educational issues which would normally include behaviour management, key legislative frameworks and child development theories. A key element of this module is to develop studentsÊ scholarly approach through engagement in academic literature, developing academic writing skills and adhering to referencing conventions.

Adaptive practice: learning theory, models and approaches
20 Credits (Compulsory)

This module offers students the opportunity to gain an understanding of the theory, models and approaches linked to the concepts of inclusion and special educational needs as well as the legislation that underpins it. They will explore the history and development of additional provision within the UK, gaining an appreciation of the diversity of presenting problems and an understanding of what categories of need are viewed as requiring additional provision. This module provides an introduction to the informing principles of pupil learning, teaching strategies, pupil behaviour and classroom management and organisation. Students will develop their understanding of the expectations, values and attitudes that promote effective communication and relationships with children and adults providing inclusion for all. The intention of the module is for students to have not only a working insight into statutory requirements and practice in planning for, implementing and managing inclusive practice, but to understand and evaluate the implications of these for learners and teachers. Within this module, students will develop their own knowledge and understanding of multilingualism.

Planning for learning in early years
20 Credits (Compulsory)

This module aims to introduce you to the values, aims and principles underpinning Early Years practice. You will develop a secure understanding of the concepts, knowledge and skills relevant to the Early Years Foundation Stage, that provide the essential building blocks for life-long learning. This includes understanding of current pedagogical approaches to the delivery of phonics and issues at the forefront of Early Years provision. As part of an integrated approach, there will be some whole-cohort lectures and these will be supported by discrete subject workshops and seminars. Links to Early Years policy, theory and practice will be made throughout the module.

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.

Live, Learn & Belong at Birmingham Newman??

At Birmingham Newman University, you’ll enjoy the best of both worlds: a peaceful, green campus that creates the ideal setting for focused study and personal reflection, yet remains just eight miles from the vibrant city centre. As the UK’s second-largest city, Birmingham is also one of the youngest and most diverse in Europe, offering a dynamic blend of culture, innovation and opportunity. From world-renowned museums and music venues to a thriving food scene alongside a growing business and tech sector, it’s a place where creativity and ambition naturally thrive.?

Experience Birmingham: A City Full of Possibilities?

Whether you're discovering the Midlands for the first time or already know the area well, Birmingham provides a lively and inclusive environment for students. As one of the most energetic and multicultural cities in the UK, it’s a place where you can grow academically while developing personally. Its rich cultural heritage, creative energy and broad range of opportunities make it an inspiring backdrop for your university journey.?

A City That Loves Great Food?

Birmingham is a brilliant place to explore diverse culinary experiences. You might wander through the famous Balti Triangle, sample global street food at Digbeth Dining Club or enjoy a relaxed meal by the canals in Brindleyplace. The city is also home to independent cafés, vegan-friendly eateries and countless hidden gems. Whether you're grabbing a quick bite between lectures or planning an evening out, there’s always something new to discover.?

Arts, Culture and Entertainment?

The city pulses with creativity. You could catch live music at the O2 Academy, experience a world-class performance at the Birmingham Hippodrome or browse exhibitions at the Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery. Creative spaces like the Custard Factory showcase local talent while hosting events that celebrate innovation. With festivals, sporting fixtures and cultural celebrations taking place year-round, there’s never a shortage of things to enjoy.?

Simple & Convenient Travel?

Getting around Birmingham is straightforward thanks to its well-connected public transport system. Buses, trams and trains make it easy to reach campus, explore the city or travel further afield. Whether you're commuting daily or heading off for a weekend adventure, transport is both accessible and affordable.?

Life Beyond the Lecture Hall?

Your time at Birmingham Newman University extends far beyond academic study. You’ll have the chance to join student societies, contribute to community projects or try something entirely new. The university’s supportive atmosphere encourages you to build confidence, develop practical skills and feel genuinely at home throughout your studies.

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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