BA(Hons) Education Studies+ PGCE (3+1) UCAS code X301

Introduction

Education Studies:the three year degree

Education, with its absorbing emphasis on society, culture and politics, has become a significant subject in its own right. Education Studies can be taken as a free-standing degree or, for those interested in becoming teachers, as part of our innovative 3+1 route into primary, further and adult education.

The three year Education Studies programme will equip you with a critical awareness of the social and political processes of education in this country and in other parts of the world and offers a wide range of employment opportunities for those interested in the broad field of education and working with learners of all ages and types. The course content includes a general introduction and then moves into looking at how people think(psychology) inclusive Education; special needs;researching education; education policy and a wide range of other options. The programme is sub-titled Education Diversities and Inclusion and there is a strong emphasis on learning about social justice and equality of opportunity.

Education Studies+ PGCE (3+1)

If, after completing your undergraduate degree you move onto the PGCE (3 plus 1) you will be equipped with the subject knowledge to be an effective primary teacher. The postgraduate phase of your study will develop the practical skills of the classroom teacher as well as further understanding of the primary curriculum including English, Maths and Science. To prepare for PGCE you will take modules in the teaching of English and the development of the arts in primary schools during your undergraduate degree. There are modules to develop understanding of how children acquire language and literacy competence. The UWE has a particular emphasis on art and design and the performing arts.

The “3+1” is a specific pathway through the Education Studies degree, which leads to QTS (Qualified Teacher Status) via planned and guaranteed progression to the PGCE. In order to qualify for entry on to the PGCE you must gain a minimum 2.1 degree classification and meet the other requirements for entry into the teacher training profession, including GCSE Maths, English and Double Science at Grade C or above (or equivalent). For information on the postgraduate phase, please refer to the UWE postgraduate prospectus or visit

Content

This is a rewarding four year route into primary school teaching (ages 7 - 11).

It is a unique programme in that it contributes to the preparation of students, not only as all-round primary teachers, but as potential leaders in the vital curriculum areas of Englishand the arts, at a time when primary schools are developing creativity and the broader curriculum.

Candidates with an interest in one of the performing arts (music, drama, and dance) are particularly encouraged to apply as the programme has a practical focus on these areas. UWE’s School of Education has excellent links with primary schools through which it has developed its strong research profile in education and the arts.

The performing arts aspect is represented on the 3+1 course by two modules. The first year module (Music, Drama and Expression) has a 'tool box' approach to skilling students in Music, Drama and Dance. The sessions are practically based and give plenty of scope for acquiring many new skills as well as building on those already attained. The second year module (Performance and Production) involves students in all aspects of presenting a school production. Skills in acting, directing, stage management, costume and props will be developed.

Professional Practice (3+1 only)

Professional Practice is a significant part of the 3+1 degree. During the undergraduate phase you will engage with an education research project, which is likely to be based in a school setting. You will also undertake a period of working with children to develop your experience of the performing arts.

Real World Experience

In order to broaden our students’ experience we offer the opportunity to study for a term (3 months) in a EuropeanUniversity during Year 2 (students can study in English). At the time of writing these universities are likely to be in Latvia, Denmark or the Netherlands. Students apply for a grant from ERASMUS. This experience not only gives students the chance to work in an education system other than that of the UK, it also helps them to develop skills of resourcefulness highly praised by employers.

Dr Elizabeth Newman (Programme Director)