Nottingham Trent University

What you'll study

The programme combines foundations in child development, disability studies and inclusive pedagogy with subject-specific modules addressing a wide range of additional needs. Core topics typically include legislation and policy for SEND, assessment and personalised planning, communication and interaction (including autism spectrum conditions), cognition and learning difficulties, social, emotional and mental health support, and adaptive curriculum design.

Practical skills are developed through supported school placements and campus-based sessions that cover behaviour support strategies, multi-agency working, differentiated teaching approaches, assistive technology and person-centred planning. Research methods and evidence-informed practice feature across the course, and the final year normally includes a long project or dissertation that allows you to investigate a specialist area in depth.

Assessment methods are varied and reflect professional practice: essays, case studies, placement reports, observed teaching and support sessions, presentations and the research project.

Entry requirements

Typical applicants hold a combination of qualifications such as A-levels, BTECs, Scottish Highers or an Access to Higher Education Diploma. Nottingham Trent University also welcomes mature students and those with relevant work or voluntary experience supporting children and young people.

Many programmes require GCSE-level passes in English and mathematics (or recognised equivalents). Applicants will usually be expected to demonstrate relevant experience of working with children, young people or adults with additional needs, and to attend an interview or submit a personal statement that evidences commitment to inclusive practice and reflective professional development.

Career prospects

Graduates move into a range of roles across education, health and social care. Common early-career positions include teaching assistant or learning support practitioner, inclusion or SEND support worker, behaviour support assistant, early years SEN practitioner and roles in community organisations and charities that support disabled children and their families.

The degree also provides a route into qualified teacher training (for those who meet the additional requirements for initial teacher education), specialist postgraduate study (for example in special education, educational psychology or speech and language therapy) and employment as an inclusion coordinator, advisory teacher or caseworker following further professional qualifications and experience.

Why study at Nottingham Trent University

Nottingham Trent University offers hands-on, practice-focused training with strong links to local schools, specialist provision and third-sector organisations, helping students to build placement experience and professional networks. Teaching is delivered by staff with practitioner and research expertise in inclusive education, supported by campus facilities for practical skills development and an employability service that helps with placements and career planning.

Students benefit from a collaborative learning environment that emphasises reflective practice and interprofessional working, preparing graduates to support diverse learners in a range of settings while progressing to teacher training or specialist postgraduate study.