Primary Education

Primary education is one of the most profoundly important careers in any society. Primary teachers work with children during the years when foundational learning habits, attitudes to school, early literacy and numeracy, and the relationship with learning itself are being formed. They are responsible for a broad curriculum encompassing literacy, mathematics, science, the arts, physical education, and the social and emotional development of every child in their care.

It requires people who are knowledgeable, reflective, creative, and deeply committed to the wellbeing and development of children.

At the University of Aberdeen, this four-year full-time MA Education (Hons) degree in primary teaching aims to produce creative, confident, motivated, and reflective primary teachers. A distinctive feature of the programme is that placement learning begins from year one, giving you experience in schools throughout your degree rather than only in a final block. This integrated approach means your academic understanding of educational theory and research develops in constant dialogue with real classroom experience, deepening both.

Aberdeen's School of Education has exceptional staff with expertise in curriculum, pedagogy, and educational research, and you will also benefit from access to the wider University's academic community. A year abroad is available within the programme, offering an international perspective on primary education that enriches your professional understanding.

You will develop your knowledge of the curriculum subjects taught in primary schools, your understanding of child development and learning theory, and the pedagogical and professional skills needed to teach effectively and to support every child's progress.

Graduates of this degree are equipped to teach in primary schools in Scotland and, following any necessary additional registration, in other UK and international contexts. With experience, primary teachers move into subject leadership, promoted posts, and headship. Postgraduate study in education or educational research is a natural option for those interested in developing specialist expertise.