Primary and Early Years Education (3-11) with QTS BA (Hons)

Ready to impact young learners lives and inspire the next generation? This comprehensive and forward-thinking programme is designed for individuals passionate about shaping the development and education journey of children aged 3-11. Upon completion, you will be equipped to be a dynamic, skilled educator, proficient in teaching all National Curriculum subjects for this age group.

This programme has been structured to blend a rich mix of academic theory with the necessary practical, training and experience to achieve Qualified Teacher Status* (QTS*). With this qualification, you can immediately pursue teaching roles, ready to positively impact the lives of children.

During the programme, you will gain hands-on teaching experience with 24 weeks of school-based placements, which offer real-world classroom exposure and skill development. Unique experiential placements extend learning beyond traditional environments, ensuring a well-rounded educational experience, while assessments support you in developing your own areas of interest, allowing you to pursue your educational passions.

Our programme is taught in intimate groups, which means youll learn in a more personalised setting with one-to-one support from peers and tutors. This supportive environment will enhance your learning experience and prepare you for a fulfilling career in education.

*Accreditation for the award of Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) for September 2025 entry is through the University of Warwick. From September 2026, all students will receive both their professional QTS qualification and their academic qualification from the University of Cumbria.

Course Overview
Our Primary and Early Years Education programme will give you the training and confidence to thrive as a passionate and effective teacher. With Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) built into the degree, you’ll be eligible to apply for teaching positions as soon as you graduate.

You’ll study how children engage with the curriculum and explore key areas of school practice through focused modules. This will help you build strong knowledge, understanding and pedagogy, enabling you to make a meaningful impact on young children’s lives.

Learning takes place across a variety of settings, including 24 weeks on school-based placements. You’ll also have the chance to work with local children in our on-campus facilities, including our dedicated Early Years outdoor classroom.

Our supportive tutors bring a wealth of classroom experience to your studies and maintain strong partnerships with local teaching schools. Optional international trips provide additional opportunities to broaden your planning and teaching skills.

On this course you will:
• Achieve Qualified Teacher Status upon completion.



• Spend at least 24 weeks working with children in school-based placements, both locally and farther afield.



• Train to teach children aged 3-11 years, a uniquely broad catchment that gives you a wealth of diverse experience.



• Be taught in small groups with lots of opportunities to collaborate with your peers and tutors.



• Boost your employability in the education sector by studying an enhancement theme.



What you will learn
During this course, youll explore how children between the ages of 3 and 11 learn. Youll explore the curriculum, specialisms and pedagogy, so you can make a positive contribution to young childrens lives by delivering engaging lessons and life-changing support.

With campuses in the Lake District, Carlisle, Lancaster, Ambleside, Barrow, and London, you’ll be surrounded by natural beauty, supportive communities, and real opportunities.

With strong links to law firms, schools, NHS Trusts, creative agencies, and employers nationwide, we connect your learning directly to your future career.

Ranked the No. 1 university in the Northwest and in the Top 5 in the UK for Graduates into employment or further study within 15 months (97.5% of Graduates – Graduate Outcomes Survey, HESA 2026), Cumbria is a university focused on your future from day one.