Primary Education (with QTS) BA

Choosing to study Primary Education with Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) is a big step for anyone who wants to inspire and shape young minds. This degree is designed for students who are passionate about teaching children and want to enter the classroom as fully qualified primary school teachers. Here is everything you need to know about the course, the type of student it suits, and the opportunities it can lead to.

Course Structure

A Primary Education with QTS degree usually takes three to four years to complete if studied full time. The programme combines academic study with practical placements in schools. This balance ensures you not only learn about theories of education and child development but also gain hands-on teaching experience in real classrooms.

Placements are spread across the degree, gradually increasing in responsibility. By the final year you will typically lead lessons, manage classrooms and work closely with experienced teachers.

Typical Modules

While modules vary by university, most courses cover a wide range of subjects and teaching skills. These may include:

• Child development and learning theories

• English, mathematics and science teaching methods

• Creative arts, physical education and humanities in the primary curriculum

• Behaviour management and inclusive education

• Special educational needs and disability (SEND)

• Professional studies and reflective practice

Many courses also offer training in digital technologies for teaching and opportunities to specialise in areas such as early years education or literacy support.

Entry Requirements

Entry requirements differ between institutions, but most universities look for:

• A levels or equivalent qualifications (often including at least one relevant subject)

• GCSEs in English, mathematics and science at grade C/4 or above

• Some universities may accept BTECs, Access to Higher Education Diplomas or International Baccalaureate qualifications

• Applicants are usually expected to attend an interview and pass a Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check to ensure suitability for working with children.

The Right Personality Fit

This degree suits students who are enthusiastic, patient and adaptable. A passion for working with children is essential, as is the ability to communicate clearly and motivate young learners. Creativity, resilience and strong organisational skills are also valuable traits.

Those who thrive in this degree often enjoy problem solving, teamwork and the challenge of making learning engaging for children of all abilities.

Career Prospects After Graduation

Graduating with a Primary Education with QTS degree allows you to start work as a newly qualified teacher (NQT) in UK primary schools. Many graduates secure full time teaching posts quickly due to the high demand for trained teachers.

• Beyond classroom teaching, career pathways can include:

• Leadership roles such as head of year or subject coordinator

• Specialisation in areas like special educational needs, literacy or early years

• Progression to senior leadership, deputy headteacher or headteacher roles

• Work in education policy, curriculum development or teacher training

Some graduates also choose to work internationally, as QTS is recognised in many countries around the world.

Typical Starting Salary (First Year / Early Career)

Once you have QTS and are doing your first years of teaching (often called an Early Career Teacher, or ECT), the minimum salary outside London (i.e. England excluding London & Fringe) is £32,916.

In London areas, the starting salary is higher to reflect cost of living: for example, in inner London you might start at about £40,317.

Progression Over Time

As you gain experience, and possibly more responsibilities, your salary will increase along the “main pay range” or equivalent. Some of the benchmarks are:

After about 5 years, a teacher with QTS can expect to earn around £45,000+ (outside London), though amounts vary.

Prospects

In London and inner London this might be considerably higher.