Nottingham Trent University

What you'll study

This programme covers the theory and practice of primary teaching across the National Curriculum and early years foundations. You will study child development, contemporary pedagogy, curriculum design and assessment, subject-specific methods (including English, mathematics, science, foundation subjects, and computing), and approaches to teaching literacy and numeracy. Modules typically progress from core educational theory and classroom management in the early stages to specialist teaching strategies, assessment for learning, and leadership in later stages.

• Professional practice and placements: Regular school placements in a range of primary settings provide practical experience planning lessons, delivering teaching, and evaluating progress under mentor supervision.
• Curriculum and pedagogy: Modules focus on planning inclusive sequences of learning, differentiation, continuous provision, and effective assessment strategies.
• Subject-specific studies: Subject-methods modules develop skills in teaching English, mathematics, science, foundation subjects, and computing at primary level.
• Inclusion and SEND: Study of special educational needs, behaviour management, and approaches to supporting diverse learners.
• Research and development: Opportunities to engage with classroom-based research, reflective practice and a final-year project or professional enquiry.

The course balances campus-based seminars and workshops with significant time in schools; assessment methods include essays, lesson plans, observed teaching, portfolios and reflective reports.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to hold a set of level 3 qualifications such as A levels, BTEC or equivalent vocational qualifications. Applicants should have GCSEs (or recognised equivalents) in English and mathematics; many programmes also ask for a science subject at GCSE or level 3 depending on route. Selection typically considers academic achievement alongside relevant experience working with children and schools.

• Enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) clearance and satisfactory health checks are required for school placements.
• References and a personal statement demonstrating motivation, understanding of primary teaching, and experience with children are normally requested.
• International applicants will need to meet the university's English language requirements (e.g. recognised tests or qualifications).

Career prospects

Graduates move into a range of roles in primary and early years education. Many progress to qualified teacher status through further teacher training routes or employment-based training, while others enter roles such as teaching assistants, learning support practitioners, early years practitioners, or specialist support roles in inclusion and SEND. With further study or experience, graduates can progress to leadership roles (subject coordinator, phase leader, deputy head), educational research, curriculum development, or local authority and charity positions focused on children’s services and learning.

Why study at Nottingham Trent University

Nottingham Trent University offers strong school partnerships across the region, giving students access to a wide variety of placement settings and mentoring by experienced classroom teachers. The university emphasises practice-led learning, with subject-specialist tutors, workshops in teaching methods, and resources to develop classroom practice. Students benefit from dedicated facilities and support services, including employability guidance, placement coordination, and modules informed by current educational research. A focus on inclusion, safeguarding and professional development ensures graduates are prepared for the challenges of contemporary primary classrooms.