Primary and Early Years Education (with Qualified Teacher Status)

Good for Overall Effectiveness in the Primary Age-Phase (Ofsted 2023)

Outstanding for Overall Effectiveness in Early Years ITT (Ofsted 2023)

10th in the UK for Education (The Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide 2024)

About the course

Teaching is a rewarding career – you’ll have the opportunity to make a difference to the life outcomes for children you’ll work with.

On this course, you’ll develop the skills, knowledge and enthusiasm to become a successful and creative teacher in two phases of education:

• Primary (KS1 and KS2)

• Early Years (EYFS).

At Sussex, you’ll learn from experienced and passionate members of staff. You’ll:

• explore how children develop and learn in the core subjects (English, Mathematics and Science) and the full range of other primary curriculum subjects

• develop strong and supportive relationships with young learners that nurture their wellbeing

• plan and teach engaging lessons, tailoring learning experiences to students individual needs in an ever-changing society

• critically reflect on theory, policy and classroom practice to develop your identity as a creative and research-driven teacher.

You’ll gain the confidence to apply your knowledge and ideas to both your academic studies at University and to your practice during your school placements. You’ll spend at least 120 days in a school throughout your degree – supported by a mentor and the school professional tutor. You’ll also have the opportunity to apply to study abroad.

In your final year, you’ll undertake a research project on an aspect of Primary Education that you’re passionate about. This will give you the skills to:

• conduct educational research

• interpret data

• use evidence to enrich your classroom practice.

We’ll support you at every stage of your degree. As soon as you apply, we’ll help you get ready for your interview. You’ll be supported by a personal tutor throughout the course together with module, year and course leaders. And once you’re in the final year of your degree, we’ll work with you towards applying and interviewing for your first post as a teacher. We’re also keen to keep in touch and support you in your time as an early careers teacher.

About Sussex

Our courses, research, culture and campus aim to stimulate, excite and challenge. From scientific discovery to global policy, from student welfare to career development, Sussex innovates and takes a lead. And today, in every part of society and across the world, you'll find someone from Sussex making an original and valuable contribution.

Location

Study on our beautiful, green campus on the edge of the South Downs National Park and just minutes from the vibrant seaside city of Brighton & Hove. We’re near to Gatwick airport and just over an hour from London.

See the modules you will study by year by going to the 'view course details' link.

To work as a teacher at a state school in England or Wales, you will need to achieve qualified teacher status (QTS). This is offered on this course for the following level:

• Primary