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BA (Hons) - Primary and Early Years Education (3-11 years) with QTS

This comprehensive and forward-thinking course is designed for individuals passionate about shaping the development and education journey of children aged 3-11. Upon completion, you will be equipped to teach all Curriculum areas for Early Years, Key Stage 1, and Key Stage 2.

This course has been structured to blend a rich mix of academic theory with the necessary practical training and experience to achieve Qualified Teacher Status (QTS). With this qualification, you will graduate with the confidence to positively impact the lives of children straight away, and can immediately pursue teaching roles.

During this degree, you will gain hands-on teaching experience with 24 weeks of school-based placements, which offer realworld classroom exposure and skill development. Unique experiential placements extend learning beyond traditional environments, ensuring a well-rounded educational experience.

Academic assessments support you in developing your own areas of interest, allowing you to pursue your educational passions. Our supportive environment will enhance your learning experience and prepare you for a fulfilling career in education.


  • From September 2026, all students will receive both their professional QTS qualification and their academic qualification from the University of Cumbria.

Apply Now Register Interest


OFSTED Rated 'Good' 2023:

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Department for Education

Course Overview

Our Primary and Early Years Education programme will give you the training and confidence to thrive as a passionate and effective teacher. With Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) built into the degree, you’ll be eligible to apply for teaching positions as soon as you graduate.

You’ll study how children engage with the curriculum and explore key areas of school practice through focused modules. This will help you build strong knowledge, understanding and pedagogy, enabling you to make a meaningful impact on young children’s lives.

You will study bespoke Early Years modules in first and second year and have the opportunity to complete your third year small scale research project through an early years focus.

In second year, you will study a PSHE module; though not a statutory subject (like Maths, Geography, Languages) we believe it is vital to children's holistic education and as such see its importance as part of your training.

Learning takes place across a variety of settings, including 24 weeks on school-based placements. You’ll also have the chance to work with local children in our on-campus facilities, including our dedicated Early Years outdoor classroom.

Our supportive tutors bring a wealth of classroom experience to your studies and maintain strong partnerships with local teaching schools. Optional international trips provide additional opportunities to broaden your planning and teaching skills.

On this course you will...

  • Achieve Qualified Teacher Status upon completion.
  • Spend at least 24 weeks working with children in school-based placements, both locally and farther afield.
  • Train to teach children aged 3-11 years, a uniquely broad catchment that gives you a wealth of diverse experience.
  • Be taught in small groups with lots of opportunities to collaborate with your peers and tutors.
  • Boost your employability in the education sector by studying an enhancement theme.
Apply Now

Course Structure

What you will learn

During this course, you'll explore how children between the ages of 3 and 11 learn. You'll explore the curriculum, specialisms and pedagogy, so you can make a positive contribution to young children's lives by delivering engaging lessons and life-changing support.

Modules

This course is structured to equip you to become an inspiring and dynamic teacher, delivering modules that lead you through curriculum teaching, key theoretical work and placement work.

Year one
  • Beginning Inclusive Teaching and Learning
  • Beginning Intensive Training and Practice
  • Beginning Mathematics
  • Beginning English: Oral Communication and Reading
  • Beginning Teaching and Learning in the Foundation Subjects 1
    Science, Art, Music, Computing, PE
  • Beginning Teaching and Learning in the Foundation Subjects 2
    History, Geography, RE, MFL, DT
  • Beginning to understand teaching and learning in the Early Years
  • The Cumbria Teaching of Reading (Phonics and Early Reading)- Beginning
  • Beginning Professional Practice (Towards QTS)
Year two
  • Developing Inclusive Teaching and Learning
  • Developing Intensive Training and Practice
  • Developing Mathematics
  • Developing English (Writing)
  • Developing Teaching and Learning in the Foundation Subjects
    (Science, Art, Music, Computing, PE)
  • Developing Foundation Subjects Teaching and Learning 2
    (History, Geography, RE, MFL, DT)
  • PSHE Education
  • Developing understanding of teaching and learning in the Early Years
  • The Cumbria Teacher of Reading (Phonics and Early Years)- Developing
  • Developing Professional Practice (Towards QTS)
Year three
  • Extending Inclusive Teaching and Learning
  • Extending Intensive Teaching and Practice
  • Extending Mathematics
  • Extending English: Effective Monitoring and assessment of diverse learners
  • Extending Teaching and Learning in the Foundation Subjects 1
    Science, Computing, Music, PE, Art
  • Extending Teaching and Learning in the Foundation Subjects 2
    History, Geography, RE, MFL, DT
  • Action Planning
  • Small Scale Research Project
  • The Cumbria Teacher of Reading:(Phonics and Early Reading) Extending
  • Extending Professional Practice (towards QTS)

Attend an Open Day at Cumbria

An Open Day is your opportunity to explore one of 5 campuses, meet your lecturers, and find out how the University of Cumbria could become your new home.

Take the next step towards achieving your dreams.
A student stands in front of a wall splattered with paint.