Queen Margaret University (QMU) is a dynamic institution renowned for its innovative and career-focused education. With a history dating back to 1875, QMU offers a diverse range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs in areas such as health sciences, business management, arts and social sciences, and media. The university is known for its strong links to industry and its commitment to experiential learning, ensuring that students gain practical skills and real-world experience. QMU's state-of-the-art facilities, dedicated faculty, and supportive learning environment create a vibrant community that prepares students for successful careers and fosters their personal and professional development.

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This is BA/BA (Hons) in Education Studies (Primary) is Scotland’s newest Education Studies (Primary) degree. It provides a fresh, innovative approach to teacher education, recognising the rewards and challenges that teaching presents in the 21st century. The dynamic course will give you the expertise, confidence and professional qualification you need to teach in primary schools. The course offers an approach to teaching that is founded in evidence-based research in the social sciences. If you want a career as a primary school teacher where you will genuinely make a difference in the world and inspire our future citizens, this course is for you. This course is about more than simply preparing you to inspire a class of young learners; it will engage you in the wider socio-political issues that affect education on every level and how this in turn influences educational outcomes for children. Placements form a large part of this course and are integral on your journey to become a teacher. Show less

Year One

You will:

begin to develop and understanding of education theory;
complete a 5-day (or equivalent) Community-based education experience*;
develop skills in using British Sign Language (BSL) in an education setting; and
gain skills and experience to enable you to incorporate outdoor learning into your future teaching.

Modules

Introduction in Education Studies in 21st Century
Developing Academic Literacies for Learning
Introduction to Psychology 1
Learning through the Lifespan (Primary)
Sustainable Human Behaviour Learning for Sustainability
Diversity, Identity and Wellbeing (Education)

Year Two

You will:

complete two placements: 4-week introductory placement and a 6-week teaching placement. These are based within the early level and first level of (nursery to primary 3)*;
develop your knowledge and understanding of numeracy and literacy education as well as early childhood development; and
develop practical teaching skills in creative education, including expressive arts, drama and health and wellbeing.

Modules

Early Childhood Development and Learning in Context
Language & Literacy: Theory and Pedagogy
Society and Sustainable Lifestyles
Mathematics & Numeracy: Theory and Pedagogy
The Inclusive Curriculum: Theories of Learning & Teaching
Creative and Cultural Curriculum in 21st Century

Year Three

You will:

complete a 10-week placement in a school with primary 4-5, including whole class teaching*;
further develop your skills in literacy and numeracy education;
develop your skills as a reflective teacher, in key areas such as planning and inclusive practices; and
develop practical teaching skills in physical education and science.

Modules

The Creative Curriculum: Planning for Assessment and Continuity
Languages, Literacy and Children’s Literature
Everyday Life Contexts: A Problem Solving Approach to Mathematics
Teacher as Reflective Practitioner
Inclusive Practice: Difference and Diversity

Year Four

You will:

complete a further 10-week placement in a school with primary 6-7*;
engage with a community-based education provider as part of your school placement;
look at the role of a teacher in working with other professional agencies (eg education psychologists and social workers); and
carry out a Professional Enquiry into Practice linked between your school placements and community-based experience.

Modules

Teaching as Professional: Inter-agency Working
A Global Curriculum: Planning a Pedagogy for Social Justice
Community-based Education
Professional Enquiry into Practice

NB The modules listed here are correct at time of posting (Feb 2023) but may differ slightly to those offered in 2024. Please check back here for any updates.

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You will need to book the accommodation after you have been accepted.

You can choose to live on campus or off campus in private accommodation.

How to book:

• Make a booking online after you have been accepted (in this case please let us know your choice when you apply).
• Register when you arrive - its not possible to reserve a room before arriving. You can arrive a few days before and book it

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