Education Studies - Primary
This certificate of higher education will give you a sound foundation for further study relevant to a range of roles within education. You’ll be introduced to a variety of themes relating to primary education, and you’ll gain the knowledge and skills needed to work collaboratively and equitably in a range of settings.
| Award Name | Certificate of Higher Education at UK Level 4 |
|---|---|
| NFQ Classification | |
| Awarding Body | Open University |
| NFQ Level |
| Award Name | NFQ Classification | Awarding Body | NFQ Level |
|---|---|---|---|
| Certificate of Higher Education at UK Level 4 | Open University |
Duration
Part time – 2 years
Full time – 9 months
Time limit – 4 years
Study method: Distance learning
How much time do I need?
• Most of our students study part time, completing 60 credits a year.
• This will usually mean studying for 16–18 hours a week.
Entry Requirements
There are no formal entry requirements to study this qualification.
You do not need to be employed in a primary school in order to study this qualification. However if you're not working in a school on a regular basis you are advised to negotiate opportunities to spend some time in a formal educational setting for children aged 3-12 (this can be in a voluntary capacity) to observe teaching and learning, and gain exposure to a practice context. We suggest that you spend 10 days in school when studying E103. If you cannot spend time in a practice setting, the study materials provide examples of children’s learning across a range of phases and contexts.
It is your responsibility – not the OU’s – to ensure that you obtain the necessary Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check or equivalent for the setting and country in which you’re working. You should contact the relevant agency in your country for more information if you are in any doubt about your eligibility or to find out more.
Careers / Further progression
Career relevance
A Certificate of Higher Education in Education Studies (Primary) gives you a sound foundation for further study relevant to a range of roles relating to primary education. It is also relevant to other careers within childcare, health, education, play work and working with families and young people. It will develop your understanding of practices and policies that affect children, and introduce you to many new aspects of the subject. If you’re considering teaching as a career, you’re strongly advised to check with your training provider about their entry policy for initial teacher education (ITE) programmes, as requirements vary between different universities.
Exploring your options: see 'Course Web Page' link below for further information.
Further information
Register for this course.
Start dates
• October 2024: Registration closes 05/09/2024
• Credit transfer: apply by 08/08/2024
Certificate of Higher Education in Education Studies (Primary)
Are you interested in the education of children aged between 3 and 12? Are you thinking about pursuing a career within education or becoming a primary school teacher? This certificate of higher education will give you a sound foundation for further study relevant to a range of roles within education. You’ll be introduced to a variety of themes relating to primary education, and you’ll gain the knowledge and skills needed to work collaboratively and equitably in a range of settings. An interdisciplinary approach will also broaden your understanding of childhood and children’s lives and development.
Key features of the course
• Offers a practice-focused qualification suitable for people working, volunteering or seeking to work in schools or in the wider education sector.
• Covers the key themes relating to primary education and the curriculum areas of English, mathematics and science.
• Explores the emotional, physical, social and cultural development of children.
• Lays sound foundations for further study relevant to careers in teaching and other roles within education.
A nationally recognised qualification in its own right, this certificate of higher education is also equivalent to the first third of the BA (Honours) Education Studies (Primary) (Q94)
This qualification has one stage, comprising 120 credits.
• In Stage 1, you'll study two modules that will provide you with a broad introduction to primary education, childhood studies and child psychology.
See 'Course Web Page' link below for more information on modules.
Learning outcomes, teaching and assessment
This qualification develops your learning in four main areas:
• Knowledge and understanding.
• Cognitive skills.
• Practical and professional skills.
• Key skills.
The level and depth of your learning gradually increases as you work through the qualification. You’ll be supported throughout by the OU’s unique style of teaching and assessment – which includes a personal tutor to guide and comment on your work; top quality course texts; elearning resources like podcasts, interactive media and online materials; tutorial groups and community forums.
Tel: +353 1 678 5399
Our advisers are available to take your call Monday to Friday from 08:30 to 17:00, excluding public holidays.