Teacher Degree Apprenticeship: Primary Education

Professionally Accredited Programmes
Apprenticeships

A teacher holding a basketball in a school sports hall, giving a team talk to a group of primary school-aged children.

This 38-month full-time, school-based apprenticeship leads to a Primary Education BA (Hons) degree and Qualified Teacher Status (QTS), subject to meeting all course and assessment requirements.

Location

In schools

Study mode

Work-based learning with online study

Duration

3 years full-time
(plus End Point Assessment)

Course code

See how to apply section

Start date

January
April
September

Cost

Apprenticeship levy funded

Age phases

Primary

Course overview

This Primary Education Teacher Degree Apprenticeship (TDA) is a new apprenticeship route offered in England that allows you to study for a degree while working in a school setting. This programme leads to a Primary Education BA (Hons) with Qualified Teacher Status (QTS), subject to successful completion of all course and assessment requirements.

This course offers a degree-level qualification leading to Qualified Teacher Status (QTS), with tuition fees covered through your employer's apprenticeship levy and the opportunity to earn while you learn.

This course may be suitable for those already working in schools, such as teaching assistants, higher-level teaching assistants (HLTA) or unqualified teachers. During the apprenticeship, your school is required to employ you as an unqualified teacher.

Accreditation and professional recognition

Department for Education

The National Institute of Teaching and Education (NITE) is accredited by the Department for Education (DfE)¹.

Course details

Learn about pedagogy, subject knowledge and professional knowledge. Develop the skills and confidence needed to become an effective primary teacher.

The course comprises 12 academic modules of 30 credits each studied full-time over three years and 2 months. Alongside these, you will complete three practical placement modules each year. See the How you’ll learn section for more details.

Alongside your Introductory Placement practical modules, you will complete four 30-credit learning modules.

Modules

An Introduction to Professional Behaviours – 30 credits

Designed to equip you with the necessary foundational knowledge relating to the concept of professional behaviours that underpin teaching and learning. Learn key concepts of professionalism in educational settings, covering safeguarding, effective communication, wellbeing, developing professional relationships with colleagues and other stakeholders, and reflective practice.

By the end of this module, you should be able to:

articulate and demonstrate the key professional behaviours required as a classroom practitioner
know the ethical and legal responsibilities within your own educational context
highlight and discuss the importance of continuous professional development
articulate where your own professional developmental needs are, and take actions to address them.

Compulsory

An Introduction to SEND and Behaviour – 30 credits

Discover the fundamental principles of behaviour management and the creation of positive, inclusive learning environments in schools. Through exploration of key behaviour management theories, strategies, principles, approaches and real-world case studies, learn how to establish and maintain a classroom environment that promotes respect, engagement and effective learning. The module also focuses on understanding the wide-ranging needs of learners, and the role of proactive and preventative classroom management.

Compulsory

An Introduction to Subject Knowledge: Core Subjects – 30 credits

Develop understanding of the importance of subject knowledge, and the knowledge of core primary subjects of English, maths and science. Through critical reflection and ongoing sessions, learn the fundamental subject knowledge required for teaching the core subjects while also evaluating your current strengths and areas for improvement in each subject. This module also guides you in creating a subject action plan aimed at developing your subject knowledge as you embark upon teaching.

Compulsory

An Introduction to Teaching and Learning – 30 credits

This module is designed to introduce you to fundamental concepts of pedagogy and classroom practice. Study current neuroscientific research to gain insights into current thinking with regards to pedagogical practice, as well as studying debunked theories of learning. Begin to develop the skills of linking theoretical perspectives into practice by carefully considering the structure and organisation of sequences of learning, whilst also beginning to understand the fundamental principles of assessment and assessment practices to inform, adapt and personalise learning to ensure all pupils make progress in lessons.

Compulsory

Alongside your Developing Placement practical modules, you will complete four 30-credit learning modules.

Modules

Developing your Subject Knowledge – 30 credits

This module reintroduces you to the subject knowledge required to teach effectively. Deepen your understanding of the key concepts, skills and content that form the foundation of effective teaching. Visit national, local and school-specific curricula to critically examine subject-specific content and explore strategies for strengthening your knowledge base for professional growth, in addition to considering other approaches and opportunities beyond a taught curriculum, such as outdoor learning, the role of play and cross-curricular approaches to teaching and learning.

Compulsory

Becoming a Research-Informed Practitioner – 30 credits

Develop your understanding of professional behaviours with a specific focus on engaging with research and becoming a research-informed practitioner. You are introduced to educational research design by investigating approaches to educational research in preparation for your level 6 dissertation. Engage in a small-scale research project to apply research design principles in practice. Focus your educational research on the wider role of the teacher and wider school issues such as fundamental British values, cultural capital, social justice and multiculturalism and inclusive education.

Compulsory

Developing your Understanding of Teaching and Learning – 30 credits

Revisit key aspects of how pupils learn to establish an emerging philosophy of teaching and learning. Develop and challenge an understanding of seminal theories of learning, as well as revisiting and challenging newer theories such as Rosenshine's Principles of Instruction and Cognitive Load Theory. Critically examine how these research-based theories support pupil learning and critically reflect on your ability to implement them within your own classroom practice. Through critical self-analysis, challenge your own perspectives and consider the impact of educational research, pedagogical theories and classroom experiences on your professional growth and evolving professional philosophy.

Compulsory

Developing your Understanding of SEND and Behaviour – 30 credits

Discover the principles and strategies of inclusive practice. Explore a range of special educational needs and disabilities (SEND), English as an Additional Language (EAL) and challenging behaviour that you are likely to encounter in the classroom and recognise approaches and strategies to adapt teaching to address these. Explore frameworks applicable in your local context, in addition to principles outlined in the SEND Code of Practice and explore theoretical perspectives to support in-school teaching and learning.

Compulsory

Alongside your Extending Placement practical modules, you will complete four 30-credit learning modules.

Modules

Debates in Education – 30 credits

Explore current issues and debates in education, considering and critiquing current influences, principles and practices globally and nationally. You will consider how these shape curriculum and pedagogy at a local level in schools and the impact these debates have on your developing personal philosophy.

Compulsory

Enhancing your Understanding of Teaching and Learning – 30 credits

Develop a deep and adaptable understanding of both subject pedagogical knowledge and pedagogical approaches with a focus on creative, inclusive environments. Engage in subject and age-specific strategies and approaches to adapt teaching to meet the needs of a diverse class. Key topics and areas include adaptive teaching methods and strategies for responding to diverse learning needs including SEND and EAL. Through revisiting pedagogical approaches within a subject context, learn how to adapt instructional approaches, as well as other methods to reduce barriers to learning.

Compulsory

Becoming a Teacher – 30 credits

Explore the broad, multifaceted responsibilities of teachers beyond teaching and learning to gain a deeper understanding of your role as a leader, advocate and mentor within the school community. Focusing on professional responsibilities, examine how teachers contribute to the social, emotional and academic development of pupils, as well as their involvement in creating a positive, inclusive school culture. Key areas of focus in this module include analysing your teacher identity, supporting both your own and your pupils' mental health and wellbeing, engaging in the wider life of the school and looking forward to future careers.

Compulsory

Enhancing your Understanding of SEND and Behaviour – 30 credits

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.

Entry requirements

England

GCSE Grade C/4 or equivalent in maths and English.
GCSE Grade C/4 or equivalent science is also required. This can be combined science or a single subject.
Level 3 qualifications, for example A levels or T levels, equivalent to 104 or more UCAS tariff points.
You must have the support of a school willing to employ you for the duration of the apprenticeship².

If English is not your first language, you will need to hold an academic IELTS less than three years old, with a score of at least 7 overall with no component less than 6.5, or TOEFL 600. If your qualifications were gained outside the UK, an official comparability statement for non-UK qualifications assessed by UK ENIC must be provided.

Equivalency tests

If you do not hold GCSE or equivalent qualifications for English, maths or science, we also accept third-party equivalency tests in place of GCSEs. The current approved providers are:

In addition to these academic qualifications, you must also:

demonstrate you hold the right to work and study in the UK and have been resident in the UK/EEA for the last 3 years. For exceptions to this please see the latest Apprenticeship funding rules
not already be on a government-funded programme.

For more information about this course, entry requirements or your educational setting suitability, speak to our team.

Other qualifications and experience

Our students come from a variety of backgrounds, each with a unique story. We recognise a breadth of qualifications. If your qualifications differ from the above, contact our Admissions Team which will be happy to discuss your qualifications and routes into your chosen course.

You will be subject to satisfactory health clearance and enhanced criminal record disclosure.

Fees and funding

Student	Full-time	Part-time
UK	Apprenticeship levy funded	Not available

Levy-paying organisations in England can draw down funds from the Apprenticeship Levy to cover the full course fee. No course fees are paid by either the student or levy-paying schools.

Please speak to your employer to confirm that they can fund you for this apprenticeship provided by Coventry University before making your application.

How to apply

UK students

Applications for this course should be made through the DfE Apply portal. Please note down the course code below.

To apply, you must have secured the support of your school to employ you as an unqualified teacher for the duration of the apprenticeship. Therefore, your first step is to speak to your school to see if they are able to support you. If they have any questions, please ask them to contact us.

Apply now

Course code:

Full-time Teacher Degree Apprenticeship: Primary Education
TT17SENZP

Frequently asked questions

Why should I study this course?

School-based (England)
You will be based in a school setting throughout the course. This school-based approach enables you to apply the knowledge you gain directly to real classroom situations as part of your day-to-day role.
Online
The course is delivered to you online through webinars, podcasts, videos, research and tutorials. Our platforms are interactive and engaging, enabling both independent and peer learning. All course content and materials are available online, enabling you to study and revisit them as required.
Be based anywhere in England
As the course is delivered online, you can be employed or on placement in a school anywhere in England, subject to the school meeting the required selection criteria to ensure it can offer you the right support.²
Support
Described by Ofsted as “excellent”, Coventry University’s online tutorial approach provides you with teaching and support, both one-to-one with your university tutor and in a tutor group. Tutorials deepen your understanding of topics, prompting you to think about what works best for you in your teaching. You will also be guided on a day-to-day basis by your in-school mentor, who will be an experienced teacher in your school.
Multiple start dates
You can choose to start the course in September, January or April, according to your preferences.
Employability
Successful completion would lead to a Primary Education BA (Hons) degree and Qualified Teaching Status (QTS) which could enhance your employability.

How will I learn?

The course is designed to be highly practical to help you develop your craft in schools under the supervision of skilled school-based mentors and experienced university tutors.

This is a university course, so you can be confident you are following a high-quality, evidence-based curriculum built on relevant educational theory. Designed to complement your teaching or placement role in school, our online course consists of webinars, podcasts, videos, research and tutorials. Our platforms are interactive and engaging and promote independent and peer learning. All the course content and materials are available online, enabling you to study and revisit them as required.

The course comprises 12 modules of 30 credits each studied full-time over three years. Alongside these, you will complete three practical placement modules each year.

You will be in school between two-and-a-half to four days a week, during which time you will complete the Practical Teaching Practice modules while supported by an experienced school-based mentor. At the beginning of the course, you can expect to take on a support role in the classroom as directed by the class teacher. Learning activities will include observations of experienced staff, teaching small groups or parts of lessons and team-teaching, dependent on experience. As you work through the programme and your skills and confidence develop, you will take on more responsibility for teaching. During your final year, you will reach 80% of a qualified teacher’s timetable to meet the requirements for QTS. This ensures you are fully prepared for your first years as a qualified teacher.

All applicants must find their own schools willing to support them for the full duration of the course during the application process. NITE do not source placement schools for any employed course.

Applicants must secure the support of their school and a contract of employment as an Unqualified Teacher covering the duration of the course before enrolment. If employment ends unexpectedly, trainees will be responsible for sourcing an alternative placement and that while we can offer guidance, continuation of the course will depend on a suitable placement being in place.

One fixed day per week during term time will be protected for your university learning. You will complete 12 online learning modules per year, each involving 50-60 hours comprising approximately 60% live teaching through seminars and tutorials and 40% self-study. During your studies, you will have access to an experienced team, including university mentors, subject and phase specialist tutors, who will support your studies through feedback and dedicated live tutorials. You will require access to a suitable device, a laptop or PC, throughout the course and will also be expected to be sufficiently competent with IT to learn and use our online platforms.

This combined approach to training offers you teaching by our highly experienced staff, as well as enabling vital peer support and a valuable collaborative learning environment. You will be supported to learn from each other, share experiences and reflect away from the school environment.

There are no elements of the course that require you to travel to Coventry or other venues.

How will I be assessed?

This course will be assessed using a variety of methods which will vary depending upon the module.

Assessment methods may include:

written assignments
presentations
oral presentations
observations.

The practical modules will be assessed on the evidence you collect, collate and upload to an electronic portfolio.

You will be visited by a Visiting Assessor (VA) at least four times during the apprenticeship. They will observe you teaching and meet with you and your school-based mentor to discuss and oversee the assessment of your overall progress. At the end of the course, a final assessment is made on whether you meet the Teachers’ Standards.

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

What career opportunities could I have after completing the course?

This course is a formal Initial Teacher Training qualification for trainee teachers in England. On completion you will be recommended for QTS and able to apply for your first teaching role.

To achieve the full QTS award, you will be required to complete the two-year induction as an Early Career Teacher (ECT) in your first post. . The qualification accredits the teacher to teach in state-maintained schools in England. Many independent schools now also prefer their teachers to hold this award.

You may look for roles such as:

Teaching: Primary teaching, including special educational needs (SEN) teaching.
School management: year leader, subject leader, phase leader, SENCO (Special Educational Needs Coordinator), deputy headteacher, headteacher.
Education outreach coordinator: working with communities to promote and support educational initiatives.
Curriculum development: creating and improving educational materials and programmes.
Educational consultant: providing expertise and guidance to schools, teachers, or parents on various educational matters.

The graduate destinations listed above illustrate potential career paths. You may need to gain additional qualifications or practical experience, pass professional examinations, complete training, cover associated costs and meet specific visa or immigration requirements to secure employment in these fields.

Will you find me employment so I can complete this course?

I work in a SEND school. Can I do this apprenticeship?

You can complete this apprenticeship in most SEND settings, Pupil Referral Units or other alternative provision. However, there are a few additional requirements. The minimum class size is six and the chosen mentor must have QTS. Your second school placement must be in a mainstream school and last one school term (a minimum of 10 weeks). The children you are teaching must be following a recognised primary curriculum, though this does not have to be at an age-expected level.

Can I check my qualifications for the TDA before I apply?

Are there opportunities for further study?

Disclaimers

Coventry University together with Coventry University London, Coventry University Wrocław, CU Coventry, CU London, CU Scarborough, National Institute of Teaching and Education (NITE) and Coventry University Online come together to form part of the Coventry University Group (the University) with all degrees awarded by Coventry University.

¹Accreditations

The majority of our 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.

²Placements

All applicants must find their own schools willing to support them for the full duration of the course during the application process. NITE do not source placement schools for any employed courses.

Classroom hours for the practical placement modules must be agreed by the school. If a placement ends unexpectedly, students will be responsible for sourcing an alternative placement and that while we can offer guidance, continuation of the course will depend on a suitable placement being in place within the specified timeframe.

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 UK (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.

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 current 2025/2026 contract is available on the website. The Contract details your rights and the obligations you will be bound by during your time as a student and contains the obligations that the university will owe to you. You should read the Contract before you accept an offer of a place and before you enrol at the university.

Teacher Degree Apprenticeship: Primary Education

Course overview

Accreditation and professional recognition

Department for Education

Course details

Modules

Modules

Modules

Entry requirements

England

Equivalency tests

Other qualifications and experience

Fees and funding

How to apply

Course code:

Frequently asked questions

¹Accreditations

²Placements

³Tuition fees

Student Contract

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