Primary Education

The Bachelor of Education in Primary Education at University College London is a comprehensive undergraduate program designed to prepare students for a rewarding career as primary school teachers. This program offers a blend of academic study, practical teaching experience, and professional development, equipping graduates with the skills, knowledge, and confidence necessary to support the holistic development of young learners. Throughout the course, students engage with core topics such as child development, curriculum design, inclusive education, behavior management, and educational psychology, enabling them to understand the diverse needs of pupils and adapt their teaching strategies accordingly. The program also emphasizes the importance of digital literacy, creative teaching methods, and assessment techniques to foster engaging learning environments. Students undertake supervised teaching placements in various primary school settings, gaining invaluable hands-on experience and building professional competencies under the guidance of experienced mentors and educators. UCL's state-of-the-art facilities, research-led teaching, and strong links with local schools provide an enriching environment for aspiring teachers to develop their practice. The program is accredited by relevant educational bodies, ensuring that graduates meet national standards for primary teaching qualification. Graduates of this program will be well-prepared to pursue a career in primary education across a range of settings, contribute positively to their communities, and continue their professional development through further studies or training. With its focus on innovative pedagogical approaches, inclusivity, and lifelong learning, the Primary Education program at UCL is dedicated to cultivating future educators who will make a meaningful difference in the lives of children and society as a whole.

This programme will give you insights into new areas of management, enabling you to effect a change of career orientation and to become part of a senior higher education management network.

All students undertake modules to the value of 180 credits.

The programme consists of four core modules (90 credits) and either two optional modules (30 credits) and a dissertation (60 credits), or four optional modules (60 credits) and a report (30 credits).

Core modules

• Higher Education Institutions as Organisations: Their Strategic Management
• The Management of Teaching and Research in Higher Education
• The Management of Financial Resources in Higher Education (Part 1)
• The Management of Financial Resources in Higher Education (Part 2)

Optional modules

• An Independent Study in Higher Education Management
• Institutional Governance in Higher Education
• Internationalisation in Higher Education
• Managing the Physical University: Space and Place in Higher Education
• Managing People in Higher Education Institutions
• Managing Knowledge Exchange and Engagement in Higher Education
• Managing the Student Experience
• Marketing in Higher Education

Dissertation/report

All students submit either a 20,000-word dissertation on a topic relevant to the programme, or a 10,000-word report on successful completion of a consultancy project in an HEI.

Teaching and learning

Teaching methods include lectures, tutor and student-led seminars and discussions, critical engagement and discussion of relevant literature and syndicate group work. Assessment is by presentations, essays, the successful completion of a consultancy project in an HEI, or a dissertation on a topic relevant to the programme.

A minimum of a second-class Bachelor's degree from a UK university or an overseas qualification of an equivalent standard, together with at least four years of relevant professional experience of management in an HEI setting. It is also possible for applicants with appropriate experience but without a degree to be accepted on the basis of an interview, a qualifying essay and/or a portfolio and reflective statement, depending on their prior qualifications. European or international applicants are expected to have qualifications at an equivalent level.

The Primary Education program at University College London primarily offers financial support through a variety of funding options designed to assist students in covering their tuition fees and living expenses. Prospective students can explore scholarships, bursaries, and bursary schemes specific to UCL that recognize academic merit, financial need, or contributions to diversity and inclusion. UCL provides several merit-based scholarships which are awarded based on academic achievement, and these can significantly offset the cost of the program. Additionally, students from the UK or European Union may be eligible for government-funded student loans, which cover tuition fees and provide maintenance support to assist with living costs during the duration of the course. International students should consider scholarship opportunities for international students, such as the UCL Global Scholarships, which aim to support outstanding students from around the world.

Apart from institutional financial aid, students are encouraged to seek external funding sources, including national loan schemes, private scholarships, and sponsorship programs offered by educational foundations or organizations aligned with teaching careers. UCL’s Careers Service also provides guidance on part-time work opportunities and internships that can help students fund their studies while gaining valuable experience in the education sector. Financial planning support is available through UCL's Student Support and Wellbeing services, which offer advice and resources on budgeting, managing student debt, and accessing emergency funding if unforeseen circumstances arise.

Furthermore, UCL’s flexible study options and potential part-time programs can help students balance their academic and financial commitments effectively. The university is committed to making education accessible and provides comprehensive information about financing options on its official website, including deadlines and application procedures. It is advisable for prospective students to consult the UCL admissions and finance pages early in their application process to understand eligibility criteria, application processes, and the detailed scope of financial assistance available for the Primary Education program. Overall, UCL’s diverse range of financial resources aims to ensure that talented students can pursue their career ambitions in primary education without undue financial hardship.

The Primary Education program at University College London is designed to prepare students for a career in teaching young children in primary school settings. This undergraduate degree offers a comprehensive curriculum that combines academic study with practical teaching experience, ensuring graduates are well-equipped to meet the challenges of primary education. The program typically covers a wide range of subjects essential for effective teaching, including child development, curriculum planning, classroom management, and inclusive education. Students also learn about the use of technology in the classroom, assessment strategies, and pedagogical theories that underpin effective teaching practices. The training emphasizes the importance of developing reflective practitioners who can adapt to diverse learning needs and cultural contexts. Throughout the course, students undertake placements in primary schools to gain hands-on teaching experience, working under the supervision of experienced educators. This practical component is integral to the program, allowing students to apply theoretical knowledge in real-world settings and develop confidence and professionalism. The program is accredited by relevant educational authorities, ensuring that graduates meet professional standards required for UK teaching certification. Graduates of the Primary Education program are well-positioned to work as primary school teachers in the UK or internationally, or to pursue further studies in education or related fields. The university also offers various support services to assist students in their academic and professional development, including workshops, mentorship, and career guidance. The diverse student body and collaborative learning environment foster a rich educational experience, preparing graduates to contribute positively to the education sector. Overall, the program emphasizes a holistic approach to primary education, combining theory, practice, and reflective learning to develop competent, compassionate, and innovative teachers dedicated to shaping the future of children.