Teaching and Learning Primary

The Bachelor of Teaching and Learning Primary at the University of Canterbury is a comprehensive undergraduate program designed to prepare students for a rewarding career in primary education. This degree provides future teachers with the essential knowledge, skills, and practical experience needed to foster learning and development in young children across various primary school levels. Throughout the program, students engage with a diverse range of subjects including educational psychology, childhood development, curriculum design, and pedagogical strategies, ensuring they are well-equipped to meet the educational needs of diverse learners. The curriculum emphasizes both theoretical understanding and hands-on practice, with extensive opportunities for school placements and teaching internships that enable students to apply their learning in real classroom settings. Faculty members are experienced educators committed to supporting students' professional growth through mentorship and innovative teaching methods. The program also encourages reflective practice, fostering a mindset of continuous improvement and lifelong learning essential for effective teaching. Graduates of the Bachelor of Teaching and Learning Primary are well-prepared to work in a variety of educational contexts within New Zealand and internationally, promoting inclusive, engaging, and effective learning environments for young learners. The program aligns with national standards for teacher education and includes components on educational equity, ethics, and the integration of technology in teaching. Upon completion, students are eligible for registration with the Teaching Council of Aotearoa New Zealand, enabling them to pursue teaching careers in primary schools across the country. The University of Canterbury’s strong focus on research-informed teaching and its commitment to community engagement make it an ideal place for aspiring educators to develop their professional identity and contribute meaningfully to the future of education.

The Bachelor of Teaching and Learning (Primary) requires a total of 360 points:

• 60 points from Education courses
• 90 points from Professional Inquiry
• 60 points from Professional Practice
• 150 points from Curriculum Studies.

The optional course at 300-level allows students to specialise in an area of particular interest in their third year.

Flexible Learning Options

The Primary Flexible Learning Option (FLO) enables you to complete the BTchLn(Primary) by distance. Courses integrate web-based material, audiovisual resources, video conferences and email (students need good internet access).

If you would like to study by distance-only you will need to attend up to two on-site intensives in Christchurch each year of full-time study, with the first in February.

Students enrolled in the Nelson or Rotorua regional campus option do not attend the on-site intensives in Christchurch. They complete a blended model of online coursework and face-to-face courses and curriculum components held at their regional campus.

Placements and learning in schools

You will attend two professional practice placements per year, one each semester. Placements are arranged by the College of Education, Health and Human Development.

Entry requirements

Admission to UC with University Entrance, or equivalent, is required to enrol for a Bachelor's degree. Domestic applicants over 20 who do not hold University Entrance, or equivalent, may gain admission by providing evidence of their ability to complete tertiary study successfully. For example, applicants may want to consider the Certificate in Learning Support (CertLS) which is available by distance or the Certificate in University Preparation (CUP). For information on gaining admission to UC please see how to apply for undergraduate qualifications.

You are also required to meet UC’s English language requirements.

Qualification specific requirements

Selection process

The BTchLn(Primary) has one intake each February. Selection for entry is based on:

• your academic ability, involvement and interest in working with children, community involvement, communication skills and other personal qualities
• a police check, referees' reports and an interview
• a short literacy and numeracy test.

English language requirements

Students for whom English is an additional language must provide evidence of their English language ability as follows:

• IELTS (Academic) 7.0, with no individual score below 7.0; or
• at least two years of successful study in a New Zealand secondary school, with at least ten Level 2 NCEA credits in Literacy (five reading and five writing) or equivalent.

Funding for the Teaching and Learning Primary programme at the University of Canterbury is designed to support students throughout their studies through a variety of financial assistance options. Domestic students may be eligible for government subsidized loans and allowances, such as the Student Loan Scheme, which provides accessible funding options to cover tuition fees and living expenses during their studies. The Student Loan Scheme is administered by the New Zealand government and offers low-interest loans that can be repaid once graduates secure employment and meet income thresholds. Additionally, domestic students might qualify for scholarships and bursaries awarded by the university or external organizations to help offset costs associated with their degree.

International students undertaking the Teaching and Learning Primary programme are required to pay full tuition fees, which vary depending on the year of study and residency status. These students are generally responsible for covering their own living expenses, including accommodation, food, travel, and health insurance. The university offers a range of scholarships specifically for international students, aimed at attracting high-achieving applicants and helping to reduce the financial impact of studying abroad. These scholarships are awarded based on academic merit, leadership potential, or other criteria, and may provide partial or full tuition fee waivers along with some allowances for travel or living costs.

Apart from scholarships, students are encouraged to explore external funding sources, such as government or private grants, sponsorships, and student employment opportunities both on and off campus. The University of Canterbury also provides financial advice and assistance services to help students manage their study-related expenses effectively. Part-time employment opportunities are available on campus, which can help students gain practical experience and earn supplementary income.

The university is committed to ensuring access to quality teacher education and recognizes that financial barriers can impact student success. As such, it offers targeted support programs for students facing economic hardship, including emergency grants and hardship funds, to assist during unforeseen circumstances. Furthermore, students are encouraged to research and apply early for available financial aid options to secure their funding and ensure a smooth academic experience. Overall, the University of Canterbury strives to provide comprehensive financial support tailored to the diverse needs of its students enrolled in the Teaching and Learning Primary programme, promoting equitable access and successful completion of their degree.

The Bachelor of Teaching and Learning Primary at the University of Canterbury is a comprehensive undergraduate program designed to prepare students for a career in primary education. This degree program focuses on equipping future teachers with the essential knowledge, skills, and pedagogical strategies required to effectively educate young children at the primary level. The curriculum emphasizes a student-centered approach, integrating theoretical foundations of education with practical classroom experience to ensure graduates are well-prepared for the diverse challenges of teaching in contemporary primary schools.

Throughout the course of study, students explore various subject areas including literacy, numeracy, science, social sciences, arts, and physical education, gaining expertise in delivering engaging and inclusive instruction. The program incorporates extensive practical components through school placements, allowing students to apply their learning in real classroom environments under the supervision of experienced mentors. This hands-on experience is crucial for developing classroom management skills, understanding student diversity, and implementing innovative teaching methods.

The program also emphasizes the importance of understanding child development, learning theories, and inclusive education practices, ensuring graduates can create supportive learning environments that cater to the needs of all students. Additionally, students engage with current educational research and policies, fostering a reflective approach to their teaching practices. The degree prepares graduates to meet the registration requirements for teaching in New Zealand primary schools and provides a solid foundation for ongoing professional development.

Students in the program benefit from the university’s strong links with local schools and the wider educational community, facilitating collaborations and networking opportunities. The curriculum is designed to be progressive, integrating classroom theory with practice from early stages to final year placements, providing a seamless transition from university to the classroom. Graduates of the Bachelor of Teaching and Learning Primary are equipped to make a positive impact in their communities and to foster lifelong learning among their students. Beyond initial teaching roles, the degree also provides pathways for further specialization or postgraduate study in education or related fields.