Primary and Early Years Education with QTS Birmingham City University

Overview

This PGCE in Primary and Early Years Education with QTS at Birmingham City University is designed for individuals passionate about nurturing children's academic and personal growth during critical developmental stages. The course aims to cultivate reflective, critical, and inquiring primary school teachers who can adapt to the evolving educational landscape. By the end of the programme, graduates will be prepared to continue their professional development throughout their careers.

Why Primary and Early Years Education with QTS at Birmingham City University?

Birmingham City University is a prominent institution that plays a significant role in training the teaching workforce across the West Midlands. Since 2018, the university has successfully trained over 1,400 primary and early years teachers, with more than half of them continuing to work in the region. The curriculum is crafted by research-active subject experts, ensuring a blend of university and school-based training that meets current educational needs.

The university boasts strong partnerships with numerous schools and early years settings, providing students with diverse training opportunities. Facilities include specialised rooms for art, music, and science, enhancing the learning experience. Additionally, international links with countries like Spain, France, and Germany offer students the chance to explore primary education in different cultural contexts.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

The tuition fees for the PGCE in Primary and Early Years Education with QTS are as follows:

• National Students: £9,535 per year
• International Students: £17,690 per year

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

The course structure encompasses a variety of modules designed to provide comprehensive training:

• Core Curriculum (20 credits): Focuses on core subjects such as Mathematics, English, and Science, along with the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS).
• Foundation Curriculum (20 credits): Explores foundation subjects for Key Stages 1 and 2, including History, Geography, Art, and Physical Education.
• School Based Training 1 (0 credits): Offers practical experience in schools, allowing trainees to observe and implement teaching practices.
• School Based Training 2 (0 credits): Builds on the first training module, enabling trainees to demonstrate mastery of professional standards.
• Professional Studies and Leadership (20 credits): Examines teaching and leadership roles within primary and early years settings.

This PGCE programme integrates academic study with hands-on experience from the outset, fostering critical thinking and practical skills essential for effective teaching. Trainees will develop a deep understanding of various teaching models, learning styles, and classroom management strategies, ensuring they are well-equipped to engage and motivate learners.

The course also emphasises the importance of meeting the Teachers' Standards for the award of Qualified Teacher Status (QTS), with at least 120 days spent in schools. Assessment methods include audits of subject knowledge, written assignments, and practical evaluations during school-based training.

Through a combination of rigorous academic study and extensive practical experience, graduates of the PGCE in Primary and Early Years Education with QTS will emerge as confident, committed, and reflective practitioners, ready to make a positive impact in the field of education.