Primary Education

Primary education is one of the most formative influences in a child's life. The knowledge, confidence, and curiosity that a skilled primary teacher nurtures in the early years of schooling shape how a child relates to learning for decades to come. Teaching at primary level requires a broad range of subject knowledge, strong communication and relationship skills, and a deep understanding of child development and how children learn.

This three-year, full-time programme at the University of Bedfordshire leads to Qualified Teacher Status (QTS), enabling you to work as a fully qualified primary school teacher in England upon graduation. You will study across the full primary curriculum, including the teaching of English, mathematics, science, and foundation subjects, building subject knowledge alongside practical pedagogical skills. School placements are woven throughout the degree, giving you substantial time in real classrooms working with children across the primary age range.

The programme places a strong emphasis on teaching, learning opportunities, assessment and feedback, academic support, and the organisation of professional training, reflecting a commitment to the quality of your experience throughout. You will graduate with both a degree and the professional qualification required to begin your teaching career.

Primary teaching is a career with genuine social impact, and it opens into a broad range of professional directions. Many graduates spend their early careers establishing themselves in the classroom, progressing through the profession to roles such as subject leader, phase leader, assistant or deputy headteacher, and eventually headteacher. Others move into educational consultancy, teacher training, school inspection, or policy roles in local and national government.

Some use the degree as a foundation for further study in education, special educational needs, educational psychology, or leadership, building expertise in a particular area of practice.