Primary Education and Teaching Studies with Foundation Year BA (Hons)

Study level: Undergraduate
A group of students sat outside the CU London Dagenham building.

The Primary Education and Teaching Studies with Foundation Year BSc (Hons) course aims to provide you with a solid grounding for building a career in education and teaching.

Course option

Year of entry

Location

CU London (Dagenham, London)

Study mode

Full-time
Sandwich

Duration

4 years full-time
5 years sandwich

UCAS codes

X325

Start date

September 2023
November 2023
January 2024
March 2024
April 2024
June 2024

How to apply
Open days
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The information on this page is for 2022-23 entry and should be used as guidance for 2023-24 entry. Please keep checking back on this course page to see our latest updates.

Available through Clearing

Clearing applications for September 2023 are now closed to international students due to visa and immigration requirements. Check out our January 2024 entry courses.

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Course overview

The Primary Education and Teaching Studies with Foundation Year BSc (Hons) course aims to provide you with a solid grounding for building a career in education and teaching.

Working with children can be challenging, unpredictable and one of the most rewarding professions available. The primary education sector is responsible for educating young minds, nurturing talent and contributing directly to the development and growth of future generations.

  • The strength of the course lies in preparing students, who are unable to follow the more traditional route onto a degree course in Primary Education and Teaching Studies.
  • Students who successfully complete their foundation year will then progress onto the Primary Education and Teaching Studies BA (Hons).
  • The Primary Education and Teaching Studies BA (Hons) degree part of this course aims to supply knowledgeable, enthusiastic and skilled individuals to local and national school centred teacher training institutions. It provides learners with theoretical and practical learning modules that underpin the core concepts of effective education and teaching; which are relevant to both current practice in schools and the changing context of education in this country.
  • Throughout the course you will be provided with opportunities to undertake practical learning, through a number of professional placements2,5 in early learning settings.

Why CU London

We offer a style of education which is flexible and designed to fit around your life, allowing you to benefit from a modern, forward-thinking higher education institution, reinforced by the quality and reputation of Coventry University. Wherever possible, we aim to provide career-focused courses, coupled with placement opportunities2 to help prepare you for the world of work. We are dedicated to making higher education accessible and enjoyable to everyone, so we keep our fees low and made it a policy to cover one module at a time, so you have the opportunity to study topics in-depth and give assignments your full attention before moving onto the next.

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What you'll study

The foundation year aims to provide the skills and knowledge relevant for progression onto a degree in health, social work or social care in the statutory, voluntary or private sectors. It sets a foundation for your journey to employment, creating great opportunities in health promotion and health development sectors through addressing health inequalities and tackling the damaging effects of smoking, alcohol, drugs and poor nutrition, in line with contemporary government initiatives.

The comprehensive Primary Education and Teaching Studies BA (Hons) degree part of the course aims to equip you to engage, motivate and inspire young learners in a wide range of schooling environments.

From child development theories to consideration of varied perspectives of primary education, you will learn responsive and innovative techniques to support effective curriculum delivery, drawing on advanced knowledge of child development and theoretical perspectives.

There are a number of practical elements to help cement your knowledge of primary education and teaching. You will have the opportunity to take part in several visits to special schools within the local area, and opportunities for placements2,5 alongside your academic commitments for a more rounded learning experience.

Focusing on health and social care, your foundation year is a common first year for other courses which could mean you will work alongside students doing similar courses to you which would widen your knowledge and exposure to other subject areas and professions. You may also have the potential opportunity to collaborate with other students, so you can share your insights and experience which will help you to develop and learn.

If you discover an interest in a specific subject you have studied, upon successful completion of your first year, you could swap degrees with another course in your common first year (subject to meeting progression requirements).

This course shares a common foundation year with Applied Psychology with Foundation Year BSc (Hons), Health and Social Care with Foundation Year BA (Hons) and Public Health and Community Studies with Foundation Year BA (Hons).

Modules

  • The module is aimed at creating a culture of careful learning and self-reflection, where you will be encouraged to recognise the strengths and weaknesses and take ownership of your development. You will be introduced to a range of skills that will aid you throughout the programme and further study, such as time management, cultural awareness, resource management and interpersonal skills.

    You will also look to gain highly-regarded employment skills such as digital proficiency in Microsoft Office (Excel, PowerPoint etc.), team management, communication, planning skills and more, alongside lectures on ethics, health and safety and technical skills, so that you receive thorough, full-circle training.

    Compulsory

  • This introduction begins with exploration of health and social care services, roles and responsibilities of people working in this sector. You will understand the key influences that affect the provision and delivery of these services in UK contemporary society.

    This module also explores the role of multi-agency/disciplinary working, using real life situations to highlight the strengths and limitations of partnership working. A key part of working in health and social care is being able to assess the holistic needs of a service user and plan for their care using the care planning cycle. Concepts such as personalisation, empowerment, the Care Value Base, effective communication, equality and diversity, legislation, safeguarding and ethics will also be covered.

    Compulsory

  • This module provides you with knowledge of the life processes in the body. In this exciting module, you will have the opportunity to undertake practical activities which require you to take measurements of the cardio-vascular system, the respiratory system and body temperature using non-invasive techniques.

    You will even investigate normal responses to routine variations in body functioning. Knowledge and understanding of the needs of service users, types of illness and disease is developed by exploring some of the more common disorders, their causes, symptoms and effects. Factors influencing changes in patterns of health and disease in a community are investigated and how the prevention of ill-health can reduce the occurrence of disease. Approaches and models used to achieve positive health in individuals are explored.

    Compulsory

  • A sociological module, this topic focuses on developing your critical awareness of the impact social factors has on the life chances of individuals and groups in society. You will complete analysis of demographic changes, patterns of behaviour and lifestyle highlights of social groups. The inequalities in life chances of social groups has been a major focus of governmental, national and local initiatives following the release of the Black Report in 1980. You will begin to understand how social care compliments and supports the wider healthcare agenda. You will study the concepts of relative and absolute poverty and the impact of this within society. There will also be an opportunity to investigate domestic violence and depravation.

    Compulsory

The second year is designed to explore the core fundamentals of primary education. You will be introduced to educational practices throughout history and the impact previous perspectives had on child development. Further, you will have the opportunity to reflect critically on how radical changes have shaped how education is taught today, while analysing methods of effective engagement with young children ages 0-8. Throughout the year, the programme aids personal, professional, vocational and academic development, providing you with a solid foundation for further exploration in years two and three.

Students who successfully complete year two are eligible for a Higher National Certificate (HNC) in Primary Education and Teaching Studies.

Modules

  • You will develop an awareness of how child development relates to children's learning aged 0-8. You will learn how to relate knowledge and understanding of child development to practice, enhancing your abilities to cater effectively for an individual child's needs.

    Compulsory

  • In this reflective module, you will engage with critical issues raised at each stage in the history of education in this country.  You will be challenged to grapple with the concepts of ‘improvement’ and ‘radicalism’ and explore various events that have affected educational change, from the Second World War to present day practices.

    Compulsory

  • Here, you will focus on the knowledge, understanding and skills that underpin effective teaching practice in a primary school. You’ll get an introduction to lesson planning, teaching techniques and monitoring children’s learning. You will also explore the theory of behaviour management, which continues to be a key priority in schools.

    Compulsory

  • This module draws on a range of children’s literature, incorporating picture books, comics, poetry, short stories and novels, across different cultures and historical eras to achieve an insight into the idea of children’s literature. You will also be encouraged to critique familiar stories, to delve into the simplicities and complexities of childhood favourites.

    Compulsory

Building on the foundational blocks in year two, the third year of study explores the core curriculums taught within the UK. Perspectives of education is the main theme this year, as you will compare current educational practices and discuss the differences of social, physical and emotional perspectives.

Students who successfully complete this year are eligible for a Higher National Diploma (HND) in Primary Education and Teaching Studies.

Modules

  • From Piaget to Vygotsky, theorists over time have developed different perceptions of child development. In this module, you will explore the evolution of teaching and learning methods in line with postmodern theorists and modern-day practices. Exploring collaborative teaching and play-based learning, you have the opportunity to critically reflect on how these methods impact educational development in a primary school setting.

    Compulsory

  • With a strong focus on legislation and policy, you will explore the sociological perspectives of education and the impact on practices within primary schools. This module also considers inequalities in education and the social determinants that can affect a child’s ability to learn.

    Compulsory

  • Focused around core curriculums taught within the UK, this module aims to improve your confidence, knowledge and understanding of English, mathematics and science at primary level. You will also develop the pedagogical knowledge, skills and understanding necessary for the successful teaching of the subjects.

    Compulsory

  • In this module, you will be introduced to a range of research methods used in educational research. You will critically analyse the relationship between theory and practice and be introduced to the social issues surrounding research, including positionality and researching practice in a school setting. You will demonstrate your skills by preparing an independent literature review.

    Compulsory

There’s no better way to find out what you love doing than trying it out for yourself, which is why a work placement2 can often be beneficial. Work placements usually occur before your final year of study. They’re a great way to help you explore your potential career path and gain valuable work experience, whilst developing transferable skills for the future.

Modules

  • This module2 provides you with an opportunity to reflect upon and gain experience for an approved placement undertaken during your programme. A placement should usually be at least 26 weeks or equivalent; however, each placement will be considered on its own merits, having regard to the ability to achieve the learning outcomes.

    Optional

  • This module2 provides you with an opportunity to reflect upon and gain experience for an approved international study/work placement undertaken during your programme. A work/study placement should usually be at least 26 weeks or equivalent; however, each placement will be considered on its own merits, having regard to the ability to achieve the learning outcomes.

    Optional

As you are preparing for the next step into industry or further education, you will explore complex subjects such as the processes of creating the curriculum. You will demonstrate your knowledge by undertaking an independent research project, where you will collate your knowledge of skills, behaviours and techniques in effective teaching to produce work on an educational topic of your choice. By the end of this final year, you will be equipped with the skills and knowledge needed to become a successful leader, with the ability to identify the core processes and mechanisms that underpin innovation. Students who complete the final year are awarded a BA (Hons) in Primary Education and Teaching Studies.

Modules

  • You will learn about a range of diverse needs and conditions, including autism, dyslexia, development delay and physical disabilities. Working closely with staff who have expertise in working within the special needs provision, you will investigate effective strategies used to ensure inclusion of additional needs within education.

    Compulsory

  • You will be taught to recognise and engage with broad and rich curricula and the opportunities provided for children to have a range of learning experiences. You will become familiar with critically evaluating curricula, understanding distinctive differences between each. You will also be encouraged to develop your own philosophy of curriculum.

    Compulsory

  • This unit is focused on reinforcing your knowledge of key science and foundation subjects such as art, music and history. You will explore how to effectively plan for a cross-curricular teaching and investigate how this approach to teaching can engage young learners.

    Compulsory

  • In this final module, you will collate theoretical and practical knowledge gained throughout the programme to present a project based on self-conducted research. Working autonomously, you will demonstrate your critical thinking skills by analysing an educational topic of your choice and conducting a critical appraisal of previously published research.

    Compulsory

We regularly review our course content, to make it relevant and current for the benefit of our students. For these reasons, course modules may be updated.

How you'll learn

Your initial foundation year is focused on applied learning geared to high intensity teaching and study throughout the course. The delivery of course content is a blend of lectures, tutorials and online mediums.

After your foundation year, you will have the option to do either another three years full-time or another four-year sandwich course where you undertake a work placement or study year in a related field2.

Our teaching methods for the degree courses are varied depending on which course/modules you take, offering a number of teaching styles to suit the needs of our students, so in addition to lectures, we also utilise a blended learning approach, including online aspects, workshops and group work. We also operate an open-door policy, with additional availability via email and our current online learning platform, Aula.

Progression through the modules develops knowledge and skills, including communication (written and oral), study skills, research methods, project management, presentation and career development. We will also encourage you to consider your employability and/or entrepreneurial development.

Unlike traditional institutions, there are no end of year exams. Instead, learning is assessed through coursework and phase tests, which is more reflective of our learning model.

Teaching contact hours

The number of full-time contact hours may vary from semester to semester, however, on average, it is likely to be around 20 contact hours per week each year (excluding placement year). Additionally, you will be expected to undertake up to 30 hours of self-directed study, depending on the demands of individual modules.

As an innovative and enterprising institution, CU may seek to utilise emerging technologies within the student experience. For all courses (whether on-campus, blended, or distance learning), CU Coventry may deliver certain contact hours and assessments via online technologies and methods.

In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, we are prepared for courses due to start in or after the 2022/2023 academic year to be delivered in a variety of forms. The form of delivery will be determined in accordance with Government and Public Health guidance. Whether on campus or online, our key priority is staff and student safety.

Due to COVID-19, some facilities (including some teaching and learning spaces) and some non-academic offerings (particularly in relation to international experiences), may vary from those advertised and may have reduced availability or restrictions on their use.

Assessment

During your foundation year and your degree, assessment methods vary and include, written reports, presentations, portfolios, tutorial tasks and assessments which take place at the end of each six-week block.

During your degree the learning outcomes of modules, assignments and projects will be clearly stated. Your work will be marked according to how well you achieve these learning outcomes and your final feedback will refer to each outcome, as well as providing an overall percentage grade.

The Coventry University Group assessment strategy ensures that our courses are fairly assessed and allows us to monitor student progression towards achieving the intended learning outcomes.

Entry requirements

Clearing places available on this course

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Additional requirements may apply

Fees and funding

Student Full-time Part-time
UK £7,950   Not available
EU Not available Not available

This course with foundation year is not currently available to international students. If you do not meet the entry requirements to directly join year 1 of the degree, please take a look at our International Pathways Programme for additional options.

If you choose to do a work placement2, you should consider travel and living costs to cover this. There is also a tuition fee3 of £1,250 that will cover your academic support throughout your placement year.

For advice and guidance on tuition fees and student loans visit our Undergraduate Finance page and see the university’s Tuition Fee and Refund Terms and Conditions.

Tuition fees cover the cost of your teaching, assessments, facilities and support services. There may be additional costs not covered by this fee such as accommodation and living costs, recommended reading books, stationery, printing and re-assessments should you need them.

The following are additional costs not included in the tuition fees:

  • Any optional overseas field trips or visits: £400+ per trip.
  • Any costs associated with securing, attending or completing a placement (whether in the UK or abroad)

  • We carry out an initial fee status assessment based on the information you provide in your application. Your fee status determines your tuition fees, and what financial support and scholarships may be available to you. The rules about who pays UK (home) or international (overseas) fees for higher education courses in England are set by the government's Department for Education. The regulations identify all the different categories of student who can insist on paying the home rate. The regulations can be difficult to understand, so the UK Council for International Student Affairs (UKCISA) has provided fee status guidance to help you identify whether you are eligible to pay the home or overseas rate.

    If you meet all the criteria required by any one category, including any residence requirements, your institution must charge you the home rate. You only need to find one category that you fit into.

Facilities

You’ll be based in the spacious Civic Centre building, which provides an outstanding learning environment.

You will have access to our Library & Learning Services, which hosts multiple study areas and loanable laptops, fully-equipped seminar rooms and impressive IT suites4.

Careers and opportunities

This degree provides a range of career opportunities for our graduates, with most going on to pursue a vocational career in the primary education sector – which is considered by some to be one of the most rewarding professions available.

The skills taught are transferable, which allows our graduates to pursue an alternative career path if they wish. These include, but are not limited to, Family Support Worker, Education Officer, Learning Mentor, Widening Participation, SENCO, Attendance Officer and Teaching Assistant roles.

How to apply

  • Coventry University together with Coventry University London Campus, CU Coventry, CU London, CU Scarborough and Coventry University Online come together to form part of the Coventry University Group (the “University”) with all degrees awarded by Coventry University.

    1Accreditations

    Some of our degree courses have been formally recognised by professional bodies, which means the courses have been reviewed and tested to ensure they reach a set standard. In some instances, studying on an accredited course can give you additional benefits such as exemptions from professional exams (subject to availability, fees may apply). Accreditations, partnerships, exemptions and memberships shall be renewed in accordance with the relevant bodies’ standard review process and subject to the university maintaining the same high standards of course delivery.

    2UK and international opportunities

    Please note that we are unable to guarantee any UK or International opportunities (whether required or optional) such as internships, work experience, field trips, conferences, placements or study abroad opportunities and that all such opportunities may be subject to additional costs (which could include, but is not limited to, equipment, materials, bench fees, studio or facilities hire, travel, accommodation and visas), competitive application, availability and/or meeting any applicable travel COVID and visa requirements. To ensure that you fully understand the visa requirements, please contact the International Office.

    3Tuition fees

    The University will charge the tuition fees that are stated in the above table for the first Academic Year of study. The University will review tuition fees each year. For Home Students, if Parliament permit an increase in tuition fees, the University may increase fees for each subsequent year of study in line with any such changes. Note that any increase is expected to be in line with inflation.

    For International Students, we may increase fees each year but such increases will be no more than 5% above inflation. If you defer your course start date or have to extend your studies beyond the normal duration of the course (e.g. to repeat a year or resit examinations) the University reserves the right to charge you fees at a higher rate and/or in accordance with any legislative changes during the additional period of study.

    4Facilities

    Facilities are subject to availability. Due to the ongoing restrictions relating to COVID-19, some facilities (including some teaching and learning spaces) may vary from those advertised and may have reduced availability or restrictions on their use.

    5Placements

    Satisfactory health clearance may be required. However, an enhanced criminal record disclosure will be required. As part of the health clearance checks you will be required to provide information about your immunity and vaccination status. You will also be required to provide information about your COVID-19 vaccination status. We therefore recommend that you are fully vaccinated including the COVID-19 vaccine. The information you provide will be used to determine your eligibility to go on placement(s). Placements are provided at the placement provider’s discretion. The University is therefore unable to guarantee the provision of placements or the location and type of placement offered.

    Student Contract

    By accepting your offer of a place and enrolling with us, a Student Contract will be formed between you and the university. A copy of the 2022/23 Contract can be found here. The Contract details your rights and the obligations you will be bound by during your time as a student and contains the obligations that CU Group will owe to you. You should read the Contract before you accept an offer of a place and before you enrol at the university.

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