MA English Literature
The MA in English Literature at the University of Reading offers a comprehensive and im...
BA Primary Education (QTS)
Reading
INTAKE: September
Program Overview
The BA Primary Education (QTS) program at the University of Reading is structured to develop a strong professional identity among aspiring primary teachers. Throughout the course, students engage with both core and optional modules, allowing them to tailor their learning experiences to their individual interests and career aspirations. This approach ensures that graduates emerge as well-rounded educators, ready to adapt and thrive in diverse educational settings.
Curriculum: The curriculum is thoughtfully crafted to balance academic rigor with practical application. In the initial year, students are introduced to foundational concepts in education, child development, and learning theories. Subsequent years delve deeper into subject-specific pedagogy, classroom management, and inclusive teaching practices. A distinctive feature of the program is the opportunity to undertake optional modules, enabling students to specialize in areas such as English, mathematics, or science education. This flexibility allows for a personalized educational journey, aligning with each student's passions and career goals.
Research Focus: Embedded within the program is a strong emphasis on research-informed teaching. Students are encouraged to engage in action research projects, critically evaluating educational practices and contributing to the broader educational discourse. This research component not only enhances analytical skills but also fosters a culture of continuous improvement and lifelong learning among future educators.
Industry Engagement: The University of Reading maintains robust partnerships with a network of primary schools, facilitating meaningful industry engagement. Throughout the program, students participate in multiple school placements, progressively taking on more teaching responsibilities. These placements provide invaluable hands-on experience, allowing students to apply theoretical knowledge in real-world classrooms, receive mentorship from experienced teachers, and develop confidence in their teaching abilities.
Global Perspective: Recognizing the importance of a global outlook in education, the program incorporates international perspectives into its curriculum. Students explore comparative education systems, global educational policies, and culturally responsive teaching methodologies. This global perspective equips graduates with the cultural competence and adaptability necessary to effectively teach in diverse and multicultural classrooms.
Location
Reading
Score
IELTS 6.5
Tuition Fee
£ 25250
Undergraduate Entry Requirements
Academic Qualifications: Applicants should have successfully completed their secondary education with a minimum overall score of 70% or equivalent in their respective country's grading system.
English language proficiency:
- IELTS: A minimum overall score of 6.0 or 6.5 with no individual component below 5.5.
- TOEFL: A minimum overall score of 88.
- PTE Academic: A minimum overall score of 69.
- DET Academic: A minimum overall score of 125.
- Some programs may have specific subject prerequisites or additional requirements.
The University of Reading offers a variety of scholarships for international students to support academic excellence and financial needs.
Vice-Chancellor Global Scholarship Award: Merit-based scholarship for high-achieving international students. Covers partial tuition fees for undergraduate and postgraduate programs.
Subject-Specific Scholarships: Offered by individual departments based on academic excellence and course selection. Examples include scholarships in Business, Law, Agriculture, and Science.
Chevening Scholarships: A UK government-funded scholarship for outstanding students from eligible countries. Covers tuition fees, living expenses, and travel costs.
Country-Specific Scholarships: Scholarships tailored for students from specific countries, including India, China, and the USA. Criteria vary based on nationality and academic performance.
The University of Reading provides an outstanding BA Primary Education (QTS) program that prepares graduates for a fulfilling career in primary education. This three-year program, which leads to Qualified Teacher Status (QTS), offers comprehensive training in teaching and learning. Upon completion, graduates are equipped with the necessary skills and experience to work in various roles within the educational sector. Below are some of the potential career options for graduates of the BA Primary Education (QTS) program.
Primary School Teacher: The most common and direct career path for graduates of the BA Primary Education (QTS) program is to become a primary school teacher. With QTS, graduates are qualified to teach children between the ages of 4 and 11 in primary schools. They will teach across a broad curriculum, including subjects such as English, mathematics, science, and creative subjects. Graduates will have the skills to plan, deliver, and assess lessons while maintaining a positive learning environment.
Special Educational Needs (SEN) Teacher: Graduates can also specialize in Special Educational Needs (SEN) teaching. In this role, teachers work with children who have a range of physical, emotional, or learning challenges. SEN teachers tailor their teaching methods to support each child's specific needs, helping them to access the national curriculum and thrive in the classroom. This career offers a rewarding opportunity to make a significant difference in children's lives.
Education Consultant: As education consultants, graduates can work with schools, local authorities, or private education providers to offer advice on curriculum development, teaching strategies, and educational policies. Education consultants use their expertise to improve educational practices, implement new teaching methods, and help schools optimize learning outcomes.
Head of Year or Subject Coordinator: For those who enjoy leadership roles, the position of Head of Year or Subject Coordinator offers the chance to lead a specific year group or subject area within a school. These roles involve overseeing teaching and learning within the assigned group or subject, supporting teachers, and ensuring that the curriculum is delivered effectively. Graduates interested in leadership and management within schools will find this career path rewarding.
Primary Education Administrator: Graduates may also pursue careers in education administration, working in roles such as school administrators, office managers, or student services coordinators. These roles are essential for the smooth running of primary schools and involve managing day-to-day operations, supporting teachers, and liaising with parents and external organizations.
Educational Psychologist (Further Study Required): Although becoming an educational psychologist typically requires further study, the BA Primary Education (QTS) program provides a strong foundation for this career. Educational psychologists assess and support children’s learning, emotional well-being, and development. They work with schools, teachers, and parents to create strategies for addressing individual learning needs and behavioral issues.
Teaching Assistant or Learning Support Assistant: Graduates may choose to work as teaching assistants or learning support assistants in primary schools. These roles involve working closely with teachers to support the learning and development of children, particularly those with additional learning needs. It's an excellent career for graduates who want to work directly with children but in a supportive, non-teaching role.
Out-of-School Program Coordinator: Graduates can also take on roles as out-of-school program coordinators, overseeing after-school clubs, holiday programs, or extracurricular activities that support children’s learning and development. These programs may focus on subjects like arts, sports, or academic enrichment, offering a creative and flexible way to engage with children outside the classroom.
Private Tutor: For graduates who prefer a more flexible career path, becoming a private tutor is a viable option. They can provide one-on-one tutoring sessions to primary school children, focusing on specific subjects such as literacy, numeracy, or music. This role offers autonomy and the opportunity to specialize in areas of interest.
Education Policy Analyst or Researcher: Graduates interested in research and policy can pursue careers as education policy analysts or researchers. They can work for government agencies, think tanks, or educational foundations to analyze and develop policies that improve educational standards and outcomes. This career path involves conducting research, writing reports, and providing recommendations on educational practices and policies.
International Teaching Opportunities: For graduates with a desire to teach abroad, the BA Primary Education (QTS) program opens up international teaching opportunities. Many countries recognize the UK’s QTS certification, which allows graduates to teach in international schools, especially in regions with a high demand for qualified primary teachers. Teaching overseas offers a unique opportunity to experience different cultures and education systems while gaining valuable international experience.
