Primary Education - BA (Hons)

Gain all the knowledge, skills and experience you’ll need to become a first-rate primary teacher. Explore all facets of education to hone your skills and develop your own educational philosophy to make a difference to your pupils’ lives. At Durham University, our vision is to be a leader in the development of high-quality teachers who aspire, through their scholarly, reflective and inspirational practice, to make a difference to the lives of their students, both now and in the future. To achieve this vision, Durham’s Initial Teacher Training (ITT) curriculum is co-designed and delivered in collaboration between university-based and school-based expert colleagues. The Core Content Framework (CCF) explains the areas of expertise that trainees need to learn during the ITT year, as a minimum entitlement. The careful integration of all elements of the CCF forms the core of Durham’s BA Primary Education curriculum. Durham’s ITT curriculum places great emphasis on enhancing trainees’ subject knowledge and teaching for understanding – trainees ‘learn that’ and ‘learn how to’. The ITT curriculum also integrates additional analysis and critique of theory, research and expert practice that tutors and school expert partners consider appropriate. The BA Primary Education programme ensures that what we teach is informed by a range of high-quality research evidence. The Primary Education degree is ideal if you are committed to a teaching career in a primary school. You will complete a minimum of 120 days school experience, including training about whole-school issues that affect children’s learning environment. You will also engage in Intensive Training and Practice opportunities which strengthen links between evidence and classroom practice. The degree programme offers the opportunity to gain Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) and this is awarded through an accredited provider, Newcastle University. The degree develops the professional knowledge and understanding to provide a foundation for effective teaching in a primary school. This includes: An understanding of responsibilities and roles of the primary teacherAn understanding of schools and the National Curriculum as the framework for children’s formal learningIn-depth knowledge and understanding of core National Curriculum subjectsKnowledge and understanding of foundation primary curriculum subjects Classroom effectiveness, drawing upon expertise of expert teachersPersonal educational philosophyDevelopment of a professional identity. The degree develops the professional knowledge and understanding to provide a foundation for effective teaching in a primary school.Course structureYear 1 modulesCore modules:The Evidence Informed Primary Teacher 1 will help you develop an understanding of the Primary National Curriculum Framework and the key concepts underpinning primary learning. You will review relevant policy and legal requirements, and develop a critical appreciation of Foundation subject delivery in the primary context.Shifting the Focus develops your understanding of the key elements underpinning the primary curriculum and strengthens your knowledge of their connections. You will examine ways in which the core curriculum is taught and consider the issues involved in ensuring effective provision of the National Curriculum for all children.Education in the Early Years you will develop an understanding of key pedagogical issues related to teaching, learning and assessment in early years education. You will be introduced to the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) curriculum, considering areas of learning specified in the framework. There will be a particular focus on children’s development of early reading and phonics, and early mathematics. You will explore ways in which early years education supports preparation for formal schooling.