Primary Education

Teaching in the early years and primary phases of education is one of the most formative professional roles that exists. The experiences and relationships children have in their first years of schooling shape their cognitive development, their emotional wellbeing, their attitudes to learning, and their sense of themselves as capable people. Teachers who work with young children need to understand both child development and subject knowledge, and to translate that understanding into learning environments that are rich, inclusive, and responsive to each child's individual needs.

At St Mark and St John this three-year BA degree combines academic study in early years and primary education with the practical training and school experience needed to qualify as a teacher. You will study child development, learning theory, early years pedagogy, literacy, numeracy, and the full primary curriculum, developing a thorough understanding of both what children need to learn and how to teach it effectively. Substantial school placement experience is integrated throughout the programme, giving you the supervised practice and professional development that Qualified Teacher Status requires.

The university takes its safeguarding responsibilities seriously, and all trainees are expected to demonstrate high standards of professional conduct throughout their training.

Graduates are qualified to teach in the early years and primary phases, and can work in maintained schools, academies, free schools, and independent schools across the UK. Many develop specialisms in areas such as special educational needs, literacy, or outdoor and forest school education. Others go on to roles in school leadership, educational research, teacher training, or roles in the early years sector outside school settings.

Teaching offers a career of continuous professional development and the opportunity to make a genuine difference to children's lives.