Trinity University

What you'll study

This degree combines core education studies with specialist methods and sustained school-based experience. Core topics include educational psychology, curriculum theory, assessment for learning, inclusive practice and classroom management. Students also take modules in professional development and reflective practice, research methods in education, and the history and policy context of schooling.

• Subject-specific methods: tailored modules that cover pedagogy, lesson planning and subject curriculum for the chosen level (primary, middle or secondary) and subject(s) such as English, mathematics, sciences, humanities or modern languages.
• Practica and school placements: progressively longer placements in partner schools, where students apply methods, manage classes, differentiate instruction and receive mentor feedback.
• Assessment and inclusive practice: coursework on formative and summative assessment, special educational needs and strategies for diverse classrooms.
• Professional development: modules on continuing professional learning, leadership in schools, teacher appraisal and career-long planning.
• Research project or capstone: a supervised research project or portfolio that investigates a classroom or school-based issue and demonstrates professional growth.

Entry requirements

Applicants should normally hold a recognised secondary school leaving qualification or equivalent. Typical offers expect substantial academic achievement and evidence of aptitude for teaching.

• Academic qualifications: a completed secondary qualification with appropriate subject background for the chosen teaching specialism.
• Experience and motivation: schools often expect applicants to demonstrate experience in educational settings (such as voluntary work, tutoring or classroom observation) and to provide a personal statement explaining their motivation to teach.
• References: at least one academic or professional referee able to comment on suitability for training to teach.
• Selection process: many applicants are invited to interview or assessment day activities, which may include lesson planning tasks, group tasks and subject knowledge checks.
• Other checks: successful candidates must meet any professional suitability, fitness to practise and safeguarding requirements that apply, which may include background checks and health screening.

Career prospects

Graduates are well placed to qualify as classroom teachers in their chosen key stage and subject, moving into roles in maintained, independent and specialised schools. The emphasis on professional development and research equips graduates for roles beyond the classroom, including curriculum coordination, special educational needs coordination, subject leadership and pastoral leadership.

• Early-career: Newly qualified teacher posts in primary or secondary schools, supply teaching and classroom leadership positions.
• Mid-career: Subject leader, year/phase leader, special educational needs coordinator (with further training), and roles in assessment and curriculum development.
• Longer-term and alternative pathways: school leadership (headship) with further professional qualifications, educational consultancy, teacher training and higher education roles, or positions in educational NGOs, publishing and policy organisations.

Why study at Trinity University

Trinity University combines a strong academic tradition with close partnerships with local schools, providing structured, supervised placements and mentorship. The programme emphasises evidence-informed practice, reflective professional development and applied research, helping graduates transition smoothly into the teaching workforce.

• School partnerships: access to a network of partner schools for diverse placement experiences and mentor support.
• Focused subject training: specialist teaching methods tailored to different age ranges and curriculum frameworks.
• Support for professional growth: a programme design that embeds continuing professional development so graduates are equipped for lifelong learning and leadership in education.