Primary Education

The Primary Education program at University College London is a comprehensive undergraduate degree designed to prepare students for a rewarding career in elementary school teaching. This innovative program combines theoretical foundations with practical classroom experience, ensuring graduates are well-equipped to meet the diverse needs of young learners. Throughout the course, students explore key areas such as child development, curriculum design, assessment strategies, and inclusive education. The program emphasizes the importance of reflective practice, enabling future teachers to continually improve their effectiveness in the classroom. Students engage with a wide range of subjects including literacy, numeracy, science, social studies, and the arts, gaining a broad and balanced understanding of primary education. In addition, the program offers opportunities for hands-on teaching practice through school placements, ensuring students develop confidence and professionalism early in their careers. The curriculum is designed to align with national standards and pedagogical best practices, preparing graduates to contribute effectively to primary education settings across diverse communities. Support from experienced academic staff and access to modern educational resources enhance learning outcomes and personal growth. The program also fosters critical thinking, research skills, and a commitment to lifelong learning, essential qualities for successful educators. Upon completion, graduates are qualified to teach in primary schools and are well-prepared to undertake further specialization or postgraduate study in education if desired. The UCL Primary Education program is ideal for aspiring teachers passionate about making a positive impact on children's lives and dedicated to fostering an inclusive and stimulating learning environment.

Our Primary PGCE develops effective, confident teachers whose classroom practice is informed by an advanced knowledge of educational theory, and who will continue to learn and reflect throughout their careers. We will help students to acquire the skills and expertise to support children’s learning, prepare them to teach in an inclusive urban environment, provide professional development in all national curriculum subjects and ensure that students show a concern for professional values and demonstrate the positive attitudes and behaviour expected from pupils.

Students undertake two Master’s-level (level 7) modules as part of the PGCE, with a total of 60 Master’s credits on successful completion.

The programme consists of three core modules, two at Master’s-level (level 7) and one at Undergraduate-level (level 6) and three school placements.

Where less than 60 credits are achieved at level 7, but are successfully passed at level 6, a Professional Graduate Certificate of Education (PgCE) - including a QTS recommendation - will be awarded. Students who complete the level 7 modules but fail the Professional Practice module will be awarded a Postgraduate Certificate (PGCert) which excludes the QTS.

Core modules

• Teaching and Learning Module
• Specialism Module
• Professional Practice Module

Optional modules

• There are no optional modules for this programme

Placement

As part of the programme students will spend time on placements at schools or Early Years Centres, during which time their teaching experience will be supported by a tutor and mentor. Students will spend 120 days on placements.

Teaching and learning

The programme is delivered via a combination of lectures, workshops, tutorials and self-study. Students will be supported though a virtual learning environment and will participate in school placements. Assessment is through assignments, presentations, audits, feedback and tutorials. A final assessment is based on a range of evidence including observations of teaching, assignments, subject knowledge development, professional conduct and responses to self-study.

First degree

Normally a minimum of a lower second-class UK Bachelor’s degree or an overseas qualification of an equivalent standard. For Primary Specialist Mathematics, a Mathematicss degree or degrees with significant Mathematics content would be an advantage.

GCSEs

English Language, Mathematics and Science at grade C.

School experience

Prospective students must complete a minimum of ten days of school experience, in mainstream urban state primary schools, before they can be enrolled on the Primary PGCE. This should include five days in one class and five in a range of classes and key stages in one or more schools. This may involve observations, work experience (e.g. as a teaching assistant or cover supervisor), or voluntary work. Ideally applicants should have completed a majority of their school experience before interview.

DBS and Occupational Health

If you are made an offer you will be required to successfully complete Occupational Health and Disclosure Barring Service (DBS) Enhanced Disclosure checks. The total cost of these checks is £125. These checks are required to ensure you meet the Department for Education’s requirements for physical and mental health to teach, as well as assessing your suitability for access to children and vulnerable adults.

Skills tests

All applicants must successfully complete professional skills tests in literacy and numeracy before they can enrol. 

The financing of the Primary Education program at University College London (UCL) is structured to support both domestic and international students through a variety of funding options. UCL offers numerous scholarships, bursaries, and financial aid packages designed to make studying more accessible and affordable. Prospective students are encouraged to explore the UCL scholarships portal, which details bursaries specifically for education students, including those aimed at developing teaching careers and supporting postgraduate study. Additionally, the UK government provides student loans for eligible domestic students pursuing undergraduate degrees, including those in education, which can cover tuition fees and living costs. International students may seek funding through UCL's international scholarship schemes, external organizations, or government-sponsored scholarships from their home countries.

UCL also partners with various educational foundations and organizations that offer grants and awards for teacher training programs. Some students may be eligible for specific research grants or project funding if their course involves research components or teaching practicums. The university provides detailed guidance on application procedures and eligibility criteria on its official website, helping students navigate financial planning effectively. Furthermore, part-time work opportunities are available on campus or nearby to support students financially during their studies. UCL's robust career service offers advice on securing paid internships or part-time roles relevant to education students, which can help offset living expenses. For postgraduate students, there are also loans and funding programs tailored to early career educators or those switching careers into teaching. Overall, the financing options for the Primary Education program are designed to support diverse student needs and promote access to high-quality teacher training and education studies at UCL.

The Bachelor of Education in Primary Education at University College London (UCL) is a comprehensive program designed to prepare future educators for teaching in primary schools. This program emphasizes both theoretical understanding and practical skills necessary for effective teaching and child development. Students undertake a rigorous curriculum that covers core subjects such as literacy, numeracy, science, history, and geography, alongside specialized modules on pedagogy, curriculum design, assessment, and inclusive education. The program is structured to provide extensive teaching placements in diverse primary school settings, enabling students to develop classroom management skills and adapt teaching strategies to meet the needs of all learners. UCL's emphasis on research-informed teaching ensures that students are engaged with the latest evidence-based practices in education. Throughout the course, students participate in seminars, workshops, and collaborative projects that foster reflective practice and professional growth. The program also encourages the development of skills in communication, teamwork, and leadership, preparing graduates to handle the complexities of modern primary education environments. Upon successful completion, graduates are eligible to apply for Qualified Teacher Status (QTS), allowing them to teach in primary schools across England. UCL's strong links with schools, education authorities, and professional bodies provide students with valuable networking opportunities and ongoing support during their careers. The program aims to produce reflective, innovative, and dedicated teachers capable of positively impacting Children's learning and development. With a focus on inclusion and diversity, the course prepares students to work effectively with children from varied backgrounds and with different learning needs. UCL's primary education program is renowned for its high standards, research excellence, and commitment to producing educators who are prepared to face the evolving challenges of the education sector.