Swansea University

What you'll study

This programme combines theoretical study of education and childhood with substantial practical experience in Welsh-medium settings. Core themes include child and adolescent development, learning theory, curriculum studies, assessment and inclusive practice, with a sustained focus on Welsh language, culture and bilingual education.

• Year-by-year structure: taught modules in the early years introduce developmental psychology, foundations of education and approaches to learning; intermediate modules examine curriculum design, assessment, special educational needs and inclusive pedagogy; final-year work typically includes advanced research methods and a dissertation or practice-based project.
• Practical placements: students undertake assessed school and community placements in Welsh-medium and bilingual contexts, increasing in length and responsibility as the programme progresses.
• Typical modules: Child Development and Learning, Curriculum and Pedagogy in the Primary Years, Welsh Language and Culture in Education, Inclusive Education and SEN, Assessment and Progression, Research Methods in Education, Behaviour Management and Classroom Practice, Policy and Professional Practice in Wales.
• Skills developed: classroom planning and reflection, language-sensitive teaching strategies, observational and research skills, communication with families and professionals, and an understanding of Welsh educational policy and bilingual practice.

Entry requirements

Entry is normally on the basis of a secondary school qualification such as A-levels, a recognised vocational qualification (for example BTEC), or an equivalent international qualification. Because this pathway is taught through Welsh, applicants are expected to have competent Welsh language skills; this may be demonstrated by GCSE Welsh, equivalent certification, or by assessment at interview.

• Academic qualifications: typical offers ask for a set of level-three qualifications at a standard appropriate to undergraduate entry; specific grades may vary by year and should be checked with admissions.
• Welsh language: evidence of proficiency in Welsh is required; applicants who are not native speakers may be asked to take a language assessment and to follow support provision if needed.
• Other requirements: work with children experience is advantageous. Successful applicants must satisfy safeguarding requirements, which include an enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check and any occupational health checks required for placement providers.
• Selection process: applicants can expect a review of qualifications, a literacy/language task or interview, and reference checks as part of the offer process.

Career prospects

Graduates pursue a range of roles working with children and young people. This degree gives a strong foundation for progression to teacher training (for example a PGCE leading to Qualified Teacher Status), particularly for those wishing to teach in Welsh-medium settings.

• Direct career options: nursery and early years practitioner, learning support assistant, playworker, youth worker, family support worker, or roles in community education and outreach.
• Further professional routes: many graduates progress to initial teacher education (primary or early years) or to postgraduate study in education, special educational needs, TESOL or educational leadership.
• Other destinations: pupil referral units, local authority education services, charitable and non-profit organisations focused on childhood, and research or policy posts concerned with Welsh-medium and bilingual education.

Why study at Swansea University

Swansea University offers strong links with local schools and community organisations across Wales, giving students access to a variety of Welsh-medium and bilingual placement settings. The programme is delivered by staff with expertise in childhood studies, bilingual education and Welsh educational policy, so teaching is research-informed and locally relevant.

• Local engagement: established partnerships with Welsh-medium schools and community providers help ensure placements are varied and embedded in the Welsh context.
• Bilingual provision: dedicated support for Welsh-language development and opportunities to practise language skills in authentic educational settings.
• Student support: academic tutoring, careers and employability services, and placement preparation and mentoring to help transition into professional roles.
• Research-informed teaching: access to staff research on childhood, learning and inclusive practice provides contemporary perspectives that feed into course content and assessment.