Learning and Teaching

Learning and teaching as an academic discipline examines how people learn, how educational settings can be designed to support that learning, and what effective teaching practice looks like across different ages, subjects, and contexts. It draws on educational psychology, pedagogical theory, curriculum studies, and educational research to build an evidence-informed understanding of the processes through which knowledge, skills, and values are developed in formal and informal settings. For those working in or entering the education sector, this kind of foundational understanding is increasingly expected by employers and educational institutions.

At the University of Northampton, this two-year full-time degree in Learning and Teaching provides a focused and efficient route into the field, combining academic study with a strong orientation towards professional practice. The shorter duration means the programme is designed to move you efficiently through the theoretical and practical content you need, making it well suited to those who are clear about their professional direction and want to enter employment or further training quickly. You will study theories of learning, models of effective teaching, assessment and feedback practices, inclusive education, and the policy and organisational contexts within which teaching takes place.

You will engage with educational research and develop the ability to evaluate evidence critically and apply it to practical decisions.

Graduates pursue careers in schools as teaching assistants, learning support roles, and school resource management, as well as in training organisations, further education colleges, and community education settings. For those wishing to qualify as teachers in state schools in England and Wales, further professional qualification such as a PGCE or School Direct route is required, and the degree provides relevant preparation. Further study options include postgraduate qualifications in education, special educational needs, training and development, and educational leadership.