BA Primary Education with English (QTS)

Gain the confidence to enthuse primary school pupils with a love of English while developing your own knowledge of literature with BA Primary Education with English Specialism (QTS).

This course will enable you to get a job as a primary school teacher following graduation. There is a high demand for specialist primary school teachers and many of our graduates go on to become subject leaders. Furthermore, we are ranked 9th in the UK for Education (Guardian University Guide 2024) and have strong links with schools.

This course will introduce you to a range of children’s literature that can be used to develop reading for pleasure in the primary classroom and consider what texts are within the context of the primary curriculum. Opportunities to evaluate the impact of stories and poetry on the development of children’s literacy will be explored, including consideration of heritage texts, contemporary fiction, and media texts. Throughout the course you will have the opportunity to investigate how these texts can influence approaches to literature in a primary classroom.

An understanding of performance skills required for presenting literary and dramatic material such as Shakespeare’s plays in a dynamic and meaningful way will be developed. Skills for analysing and interpreting texts as critical readers will be central to understanding the forms and conventions of different genres of literature. Additionally, a vital component within the English specialism is to develop key leadership skills to lead English in primary schools.

You will develop skills essential to the role of a teacher, including leadership, classroom management, and evaluation and assessment. You can then put these skills into practice through professional placements, which take place throughout the course. Additionally you will study professional legal requirements, and investigate the role of the teacher and how children develop.

You will divide your time between studying modules on professional skills and curriculum subjects, and developing your knowledge of English. The former will introduce you to the core National Curriculum subjects, including Information and Communications Technology (ICT).

Your final year will involve research engagement, developing reflective critical thinking and application of theory into your teaching practice. You will engage in professional studies, which include gaining school experience through teaching placements in partnership primary schools.

In the National Student Survey 2023, 97% of our students said that their knowledge and skills for the future were developed well or very well (96.97% of respondents studying in the Institute of Education).

Placement

You will have the opportunity to carry out placements throughout this course. These will take place within local schools that the Institute of Education has active relationships with. Whilst there you will be mentored by a teacher and linked to a university tutor, who will provide you with additional support.

During your first year you will attend a weekly placement, which will familiarise you with the daily routine of the classroom and link in with your professional modules. For example, you may have to complete an observation for an assignment.

You will also complete a block placement during each year of the course. You will spend four weeks in a Key Stage 1 (KS1) setting during your first year, seven weeks in a KS2 setting in the second year, and an eight-week placement in a Key Stage of your choice during the final year.

Climate and sustainability education

At the University of Reading we believe that climate and sustainability education is everyone’s responsibility. This is why we have set out our vision that all initial teacher trainees should be able to access training that empowers them to effectively incorporate climate education within their teaching across all levels and subjects as part of our National Climate Education Action Plan.

Across all of our ITT programmes at the Institute of Education, you will learn about:

what is happening to our climate, how to help children learn about climate and sustainability in an age-appropriate and accessible way, and how to develop your own positioning as a teacher
climate justice, the impact of current and future changes to our environment and climate on ourselves and others and implications for teachers
how to translate knowledge and theory into change and personal action through building climate and sustainability education into your planning, teaching, and children’s learning.

Visit our Partnering for the Planet to find out more about the University of Reading’s world-leading work in climate science.

For more information, please visit the Institute of Education website.

Overview

Gain the confidence to enthuse primary school pupils with a love of English while developing your own knowledge of literature with BA Primary Education with English Specialism (QTS).

Learning

Placement

Climate and sustainability education

Across all of our ITT programmes at the Institute of Education, you will learn about:

what is happening to our climate, how to help children learn about climate and sustainability in an age-appropriate and accessible way, and how to develop your own positioning as a teacher
climate justice, the impact of current and future changes to our environment and climate on ourselves and others and implications for teachers
how to translate knowledge and theory into change and personal action through building climate and sustainability education into your planning, teaching, and children’s learning.

Visit our Partnering for the Planet to find out more about the University of Reading’s world-leading work in climate science.

For more information, please visit the Institute of Education website.

Entry requirements A Level BBB

This degree is not included in our firm choice scheme.

Our typical offers are expressed in terms of A level, BTEC and International Baccalaureate requirements. However, we also accept many other qualifications.

Typical offer

BBB including English or related subject (History, Sociology, Philosophy, Drama)

As part of the application process for this programme, you will be required to attend an interview.

International Baccalaureate

30 points overall including 5 in English, History, Sociology, Philosophy or Drama at higher level

GCSE

Grade C (4) or equivalent in English, Maths and a Science

BTEC Extended Diploma

DDM (modules taken must be comparable to subject-specific requirement)

Other information

It is an ongoing requirement for all teacher training students to have a Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check to ensure they are able to work with children and/or vulnerable adults. If you are offered a place on the BA (QTS) course and you accept that offer, you will need to undertake this process. There is a charge for the DBS check, which is set by the Disclosure Service.

You will be required to undertake a criminal record and occupational health check. You will also need to demonstrate competence in Fundamental English and mathematics by the end of the course. This is a new DfE requirement which replaces the QTS skills tests in literacy and numeracy. Information can be found on the Department for Education website.

Candidates must spend at least 5 days before the start of the course gaining recent and relevant experience in a state primary school in the UK. They must also have an A level grade B or 5 IB points in a subject related to English, as well as a GCSE grade C or equivalent in English, Maths and a science. A face-to-face interview is an essential part of the application process.

Please contact the Admissions Office on +44 118 378 2622 should you have any questions.

English language requirements

IELTS 6.5, with no component below 5.5

For information on other English language qualifications, please visit our international student pages.

Alternative entry requirements for International and EU students

For country specific entry requirements look at entry requirements by country.

International Foundation Programme

If you are an international or EU student and do not meet the requirements for direct entry to your chosen degree you can join the University of Reading’s International Foundation Programme. Successful completion of this 1 year programme guarantees you a place on your chosen undergraduate degree. English language requirements start as low as IELTS 4.5 depending on progression degree and start date.

Learn more about our International Foundation programme

Pre-sessional English language programme

If you need to improve your English language score you can take a pre-sessional English course prior to entry onto your degree.

Find out the English language requirements for our courses and our pre-sessional English programme

Compulsory modules

Professional Studies and School Placement 1

Observe, explore and apply what you have learned while gaining experience. You'll develop the knowledge, skills, and pedagogies that primary school teachers use across the whole curriculum.

English in the Primary Curriculum 1

Gain knowledge of the primary English curriculum and reading framework, using current and seminal research to underpin and develop the understanding of what makes an effective English teacher.

Mathematics and Computing in the Primary Curriculum

Develop an understanding of the teaching and learning of mathematics and the subject of computing.

Teaching Practical Sessions in Science and Physical Education

Gain knowledge of the pedagogy and practice of teaching of design and technology, science, and physical education in a primary school.

Global Inclusion and Social Justice for Education

Explore contemporary issues in global education, using theoretical and pedagogical principles which accommodate a global perspective. You’ll gain an understanding of education for diverse groups of individuals and an awareness of international and national contexts and perspectives for addressing the needs of learners with additional needs.

English, Children and Education 1

Investigate pedagogy and practice through the exploration of narrative and poetry. You'll consider what ‘texts’ are within the context of the primary curriculum and the historical and philosophical perspectives on the teaching of English Literature.

Optional modules

Art, Children and Education 1

Develop knowledge on how to approach art teaching and learning in the primary classroom.

Music, Children and Education 1

Understand how to use your musical skills to lead creative music-making in educational settings, with particular emphasis on vocal leadership with primary-age children.

Mathematics, Children and Education 1

Explore theoretical concepts of key figures in the field of children’s mathematical development and key features of the effective mathematical learning environment.

These are the modules that we currently offer for 2024/25 entry. They may be subject to change as we regularly review our module offerings to ensure they’re informed by the latest research and teaching methods.

Please note that the University cannot guarantee that all optional modules will be available to all students who may wish to take them.

You can also register your details with us to receive information about your course of interest and study and life at the University of Reading.

Compulsory modules

Professional Studies and School Placement 2

Observe, explore and apply what you have learned while gaining experience. You'll develop the knowledge, skills, and pedagogies that primary school teachers use across the whole curriculum.

English in the Primary Curriculum 2

Develop your knowledge of the primary English curriculum and current policy developments.

Mathematics and Science in the Primary Curriculum

Develop your understanding of the pedagogy and practice of teaching of science, mathematics and computing education and digital literacy.

The Foundation Subjects in the Primary Classroom 1

Understand the pedagogy and practice of teaching the National Curriculum foundation subjects.

English, Children and Education 2

Understand the ways that literacy may be taught in the classroom and develop performance skills required for presenting literary and dramatic material such as Shakespeare’s plays in a dynamic and meaningful way.

Optional modules

Art, Children and Education 2

Develop confidence and awareness as a reflective artist-teacher. You'll enhance your personal art practice to inform your understanding and appreciation of art in education.

Music, Children and Education 2

Explore theoretical perspectives on music psychology with a focus on musical learning and assessment and the practical applications to curriculum music teaching.

Mathematics, Children and Education 2

Gain an international perspective by exploring different models of mathematics teaching and critically comparing mathematics curricula. You'll understand mathematics within a wider context, exploring links between mathematics and other curricular areas.

Please note that the University cannot guarantee that all optional modules will be available to all students who may wish to take them.

You can also register your details with us to receive information about your course of interest and study and life at the University of Reading.

Compulsory modules

Professional Studies, Research and School Placement 3

Synthesise your learning to assume the full role of teacher (under guidance). Understand all aspects of a teacher’s obligations to meet the diversity of challenges encountered daily.

Refining Pedagogy in Core Subjects: English, Mathematics & Science

Enhance and consolidate your understanding of English, mathematics and science and their core role within the primary curriculum.

Mental and Physical Health - Psychology of Education

Understand the connection between physical and mental health and explore the potential applications for supporting healthy minds for healthy living and positive health outcomes.

The Foundation Subjects in the Primary Classroom 2

Enrich your understanding of effective practice in the foundation subjects.

English, Children and Education 3

Deepen your knowledge, understanding and skills in the application of your subject specialism to the primary curriculum.

Optional modules

Art, Children and Education 3

Consolidate your understanding of the nature, purpose and leadership of art in the primary school. You'll establish key skills underpinning the role of the subject leader, including working with others and issues around inclusive practice.

Music, Children and Education 3

Explore practical music-making activities and explore the complexities of the purpose of music in the curriculum.

Mathematics, Children and Education 3

Consolidates your understanding of the nature, purpose, and leadership of mathematics in the primary school.

Please note that the University cannot guarantee that all optional modules will be available to all students who may wish to take them.

You can also register your details with us to receive information about your course of interest and study and life at the University of Reading.

Fees

New UK/Republic of Ireland students: £9,250

New international students: To be confirmed

*UK/Republic of Ireland fee changes

UK/Republic of Ireland undergraduate tuition fees are regulated by the UK government. These fees are subject to parliamentary approval and any decision on raising the tuition fees cap for new UK students would require the formal approval of both Houses of Parliament before it becomes law.

EU student fees

With effect from 1 August 2021, new EU students will pay international tuition fees. For exceptions, please read the UK government’s guidance for EU students.

Additional costs

Some courses will require additional payments for field trips and extra resources. You will also need to budget for your accommodation and living costs. See our information on living costs for more details.

Financial support for your studies

You may be eligible for a scholarship or bursary to help pay for your study. Students from the UK may also be eligible for a student loan to help cover these costs. See our fees and funding information for more information on what's available.

Careers

As a graduate of this course you will be able to work as a teacher or teaching assistant in a primary school, or move into nursery education. We will provide you with careers advice throughout the course, and can also give support when preparing for interviews.

Overall, 98% of our students are in work or further study 15 months after finishing their course (Graduate Outcomes Survey 2019/20 First Degree, Postgraduate (Taught) and Postgraduate (Research) responders from the Institute of Education).

BA Primary Education with English (QTS)

Placement

*UK/Republic of Ireland fee changes

EU student fees

Additional costs

Financial support for your studies

Ready for more?