2025/26 entry Applications also open for 2024/25
BA (Hons) Education and Primary Studies
Why study Education and Primary Studies at Liverpool John Moores University?
- Stepping stone to a wide range of careers which focus on supporting children and families during primary phase education, including teaching, social care, health and childcare
- 94% of students surveyed said the teaching staff on our education courses were good at explaining things (NSS 2024)
- Extensive work-related learning opportunities
- Explore the sociological, historical, political, psychological and philosophical issues that impact on the lives and learning of young children
- Tailor your studies to your own interests through optional modules
- Graduate with a solid foundation for a child-centred career
- You are able to apply for a PGCE course, if you meet the entry requirements, which you would complete once you have graduated from this course. Completion of a PGCE would enable you to become a teacher. If you are looking for an undergraduate teacher training course now, we offer BA (Hons) Primary Education with QTS.
About your course
By completing the BA (Hons) Education and Primary Studies at Liverpool John Moores University you will be able to significantly contribute to children's future development and educational attainment.
Children's future development and educational attainment depends on high quality provision and experiences during primary phase education. This course explores recent initiatives and the influence of historical and key primary phase pioneers on current practice. You will also examine how young children develop and learn and explore both national and international approaches to primary provision, policy and practice.
The course brings together all aspects of education such as the effects of poverty and social exclusion, and curriculum development. The needs and rights of children, and your moral and professional role in working with them, will form the foundation of your professional development and academic studies.
You will study education it its broadest sense, drawing on aspects of sociology, history, politics, psychology and philosophy to give you an understanding of current educational thinking and practice. We signpost you to appropriate volunteer opportunities and activities in schools and other placements, so that you can gain the experience and practice you need before embarking on further training, study or a career.
We have several international links, and there are opportunities to visit other countries and also undertake a work-related placement overseas.
You will be able to tailor your studies to your own interests through option modules, research and work-related practice. Not only will you graduate with a solid foundation for a child-centred career, you will also gain key transferable skills, such as interpersonal, oral and written skills that are so crucial in the workplace today
Additional course costs
There are no costs for off site day trips embedded into core and option modules. Optional international placements will have a cost attached.
"The course's strengths are the diverse range of topics covered, as well as the broad range of career options it ultimately gives you. I have now got a clear idea of the career path I hope to follow."
Fees and funding
There are many ways to fund study for home and international students
Fees
The fees quoted above cover registration, tuition, supervision, assessment and examinations as well as:
- library membership with access to printed, multimedia and digital resources
- access to programme-appropriate software
- library and student IT support
- free on-campus wifi via eduroam
Additional costs
Although not all of the following are compulsory/relevant, you should keep in mind the costs of:
- accommodation and living expenditure
- books (should you wish to have your own copies)
- printing, photocopying and stationery
- PC/laptop (should you prefer to purchase your own for independent study and online learning activities)
- mobile phone/tablet (to access online services)
- field trips (travel and activity costs)
- placements (travel expenses and living costs)
- student visas (international students only)
- study abroad opportunities (travel costs, accommodation, visas and immunisations)
- academic conferences (travel costs)
- professional-body membership
- graduation (gown hire etc)
Funding
There are many ways to fund study for home and international students. From loans to International Scholarships and subject-specific funding, you'll find all of the information you need on our specialist funding pages.
Employability
However, if you choose to base your career on your primary phase specialism, there are openings within centres and community groups that focus on the needs of young children and their families.
Alternatively, your degree could lead to any number of careers such as in educational management, private nursery management, educational social work or any of the caring professions that involve young children.
The roles and career areas below represent just some of the many different pathways you could take with a BA (Hons) in Education and Primary Studies:
- Primary school teacher (upon completion of a PGDE/PGCE teacher training qualification)
- Learning support/mentor
- SEN and Inclusion
- Education administration
- Education management
- Central and local government careers
- Policy Worker
- Family support and social work roles
- Community education officer
- Youth and community work
- Social care roles
- Education Researcher
- Education/Children's publishing
- English as a foreign language teacher
- Further education tutor
- Drama and sports education roles
- Digital learning
- Education and training in the public, charitable and voluntary sector e.g. Police, probation service, housing and refugee support agencies
- Employment and Enterprise Adviser
Postgraduate Teacher Training
LJMU graduates who meet the entry criteria are guaranteed an interview for your chosen PGCE course.
Our PGCEs carry Qualified Teacher Status (QTS), so after successfully completing the one-year course, you will be qualified to teach the age range of students covered in your programme.
As well as our Core PGCE courses, we also offer school-led training programmes with our partner schools across the North West.
Student Futures - Careers, Employability and Enterprise Service
A wide range of opportunities and support is available to you, within and beyond your course, to ensure our students experience a transformation in their career trajectory. Every undergraduate curriculum includes Future Focus during Level 4, an e-learning resource and workshop designed to help you to develop your talents, passion and purpose.
Every student has access to Careers Zone 24/7, LJMU's suite of online Apps, resources and jobs board via the LJMU Student Futures website. There are opportunities for flexible, paid and part-time work through Unitemps, LJMU's in-house recruitment service, and we also offer fully funded Discovery Internships.
One-to-one careers and employability advice is available via our campus-based Careers Zones and we offer a year-round programme of events, including themed careers and employability workshops, employer events and recruitment fairs. Our Start-Up Hub can help you to grow your enterprise skills and to research, plan and start your own business or become a freelancer.
A suite of learning experiences, services and opportunities is available to final year students to help ensure you leave with a great onward plan. You can access LJMU's Careers, Employability and Start-up Services after you graduate and return for one-to-one support for life.
Go abroad
LJMU aims to make international opportunities available to every student. You may be able to study abroad as part of your degree at one of our 100+ partner universities across the world. You could also complete a work placement or apply for one of our prestigious worldwide internship programmes. If you wanted to go abroad for a shorter amount of time, you could attend one of our 1-4 week long summer schools.
Our Go Citizen Scheme can help with costs towards volunteering, individual projects or unpaid placements anywhere in the world. With all of these opportunities at your feet, why wouldn’t you take up the chance to go abroad?
Find out more about the opportunities we have available via our Instagram @ljmuglobalopps or email us at: goabroad@ljmu.ac.uk.
A life-changing experience
There's so much more to university than just studying for a degree.
News and views
Browse through the latest stories and updates from the University and beyond
What you will study on this degree
Please see guidance below on core and option modules for further information on what you will study.
Further guidance on modules
Modules are designated core or optional in accordance with professional body requirements, as applicable, and LJMU’s Academic Framework Regulations. Whilst you are required to study core modules, optional modules provide you with an element of choice. Their availability may vary and will be subject to meeting minimum student numbers.
Where changes to modules are necessary these will be communicated as appropriate.
Level 4
Core modules
Learners and Learning in Contemporary Society
20 credits
This module is designed to introduce you to key concepts in the psychology of education, particularly as they relate to learning. In addition, it offers you the opportunity to explore how changes in culture and society have impacted on the nature of learning. The module is one of three modules at Level 4 introducing you to key concepts in the four disciplines of history, sociology, psychology and philosophy of education.
Education and Society
20 credits
This module introduces you to key concepts in the philosophy and sociology of education, as applied to issues in the relationship between education and society. It is one of three modules at Level 4 designed to provide you with a good grounding in the four disciplines of the history, philosophy, sociology and psychology of education.
Snapshots of Education
20 credits
This module introduces you to key developments in education. A range of historical sources and sociological research in education are drawn upon which will enable you to develop a conceptual understanding of developments in education. A chronological case approach will be taken to show how key influences, ideas and individuals shape education, reform and change. The lectures take into account key political, social and economic influences which have impacted upon education in various ways and at different historical moments.
Introduction to Education and Primary Studies
20 credits
This module will enable you to gain an understanding of key concepts and issues related to the study of primary education through an exploration of children's texts. You will also explore the skills necessary for undertaking independent learning and study in higher education.
Holistic Understanding of the Child
20 credits
To develop students' knowledge of a range of approaches and perspectives on development and learning in the early years.
Exploring Primary Education
20 credits
Students will examine the work of key contemporary theorists, understand their work and how it affects primary education. It will include the following: Outline of key theorists, their background and their main ideas. An understanding of how their work has impacted on policy and practice in the primary phase. Identification and discussion of differing perspectives within the rhetorical claims examined.
Level 5
Core modules
Professional Project Enquiry
20 credits
The block professional placement is embedded within this module and the aim is to develop knowledge of practices used within educational settings/environments. This module will engage students in reflections of the block professional placement and support the development of student enquiry. Students will reflect on their experiences and engage in the processes necessary to identify an area of research for further exploration
Student Enquiry into Research Methods
20 credits
This module will be taught through a combination of lectures, workshop and online study. Topics will be covered with introductory lectures followed by workshops involving group work and practical activities. In between those times students will engage with online materials to support their understanding and scaffold their reading and reflection on research issues.
Pedagogy and Practice in Primary Education
20 credits
This module enables you to explore the pedagogy and practice of primary education and to become aware of the current issues and debates. You will learn to discuss the theory that underpins effective practice in primary education, to examine the evidence base for effective practice, and to reflect upon the role of adults in supporting children in the primary phase.
Creativity and Discovery Learning
20 credits
This module enables you to explore practical and theoretical knowledge and understanding of creativity and how it can be supported in the primary phase. In this module there are opportunities for offsite workshops which support and enrich learning (these opportunities are subject to availability and cannot be guaranteed).
Professional Roles and Perspectives
20 credits
The block Professional project placement is embedded within this module and the aim is to develop knowledge of research methods, as appropriate to the programme of study, and how they are applied in the field. This module will engage students in reflections on the block Professional project placement and support the development of student enquiry. Students will reflect on their experiences and engage in the processes necessary to write an academic research proposal for consideration and adaptation at level 6.
Optional Modules
Schools and the Curriculum
20 credits
This module enables you to learn about schools, the remit and role of the teachers, and key issues in contemporary compulsory education. Learning activities will allow you to apply your knowledge and skills in the study of education to contemporary issues in schools, including those relating to the curriculum, learning and teaching, and the controversial issues surrounding schools and society.
Contemporary Issues for Young People
20 credits
This module provides you with an introduction to the nature and importance of the concept of youth. You will develop a critical understanding of the nature, causes and effects of problems, issues and concerns experienced by young people, alongside analysing the role of government legislation and initiatives in dealing with the issues faced by young people.
Study Semester Abroad - Education studies
60 credits
This module allows students to replace one semester of their LJMU programme with a semester of full-time study at an approved overseas partner institution
Level 6
Core modules
Dissertation
40 credits
This module allows you to research a topic of your choice, which relates to your programme of study, using a range of data sources and appropriate research methods. Your research will be supported through introductory lectures followed with workshops for group work and practical activities. You will be allocated a supervisor who will meet with you over the research period. Online materials will also be available to guide and support independent study.
Contemporary Issues in Children's Lives
20 credits
This module enables you to critically examine national and international perspectives and approaches to early year's policy, pedagogy and practice in relation to current issues and debates. It provides opportunities for you to research and critique a range of contemporary global issues and debates relating to the education, health and welfare of children and their families across the world today.
Education, Culture and Identity
20 credits
This module aims to enable you to develop your own critical response to current debates about the cultural significance of education, particularly its role in society and influences on individuals and identities. You are encouraged to reflect on your own philosophy of education and to examine global perspectives shaping contemporary debates on connections between education, the individual and society.
Optional Modules
Working Therapeutically with Children and Families
20 credits
This module aims to provide you with a knowledge and understanding of therapeutic practice with children and their carers in the UK. You will develop the ability to critically analyse what reflective practitioners offer therapeutically, in a variety of contexts, appropriate to the needs of children, their carers, organisations and society. We will also discuss therapeutic theory and practice for working within early childhood.
Parents and Schools
20 credits
This module introduces you to the crucial importance of working effectively with parents, and potential barriers to effective parent-practitioner relationships according to social class, gender, ethnicity and special educational needs. The module will enable you to develop a conceptual understanding of key developments relating to home-school collaboration, and how to develop the engagement of parents that you meet as future practitioners. The module will also consider controversy surrounding 'problem' parents and intervention from the state, as well as relevant strategies (used in the classroom and beyond) which may develop parental involvement and home-school collaboration.
Informal and Non-formal Education
20 credits
This module introduces you to alternative educational environments that you may choose to access and contribute to in your voluntary or paid work. It also adds to your understanding of the breadth of settings in which learning and education take place. It engages with radical theories in education and approaches the field from more of a contextual perspective.
Supporting Vulnerable Children and Young People in Education
20 credits
This module develops your understanding and knowledge of the issues and potential consequences vulnerable children and young people may experience in education. You will be given the opportunity to explore and critically evaluate a range of Government and multi-agency strategies implemented to support vulnerable children and young people in education.
Teaching and work-related learning
Excellent facilities and learning resources
The course aims to produce graduates who are able to think in a critical and analytical manner, reflecting upon issues that relate to education and community issues in the widest context. The course is designed to develop the transferable skills that will allow you to operate creatively in an increasingly complex world.
It is this ability, coupled with the transferable skills that are taught, such as the ability to evaluate and analyse information, 'people skills', computer literacy, oral and written skills and the ability to work effectively in demanding contexts, that make our graduates highly employable.
Teaching on the course is via a combination of lectures, seminars, tutorials, workshops, use of ICT, placement experience, online activities and independent learning.
Work-related Learning
The course has a strong element of work-related learning and you will have plenty of opportunities to look at practice in a wide variety of education and/or early years settings. You might also want to get an international perspective on your future career through work experience abroad or you could practice your teaching skills and get a feel for teaching during planned programme experiences or as voluntary activity.
Work experience is a vital element of your studies as it gives you a chance to put into practice what you have learnt during the course, and gain new skills as well. It will also add real value to your CV, giving you a head start when you come to negotiate your way around the competitive job market.
Support and guidance
Dedicated personal tutor, plus study skills support
You will be assigned a personal tutor who will help and support you in your academic and personal progress throughout the course. This kind of one-to-one support is particularly useful for discussing course-related issues or concerns you may have during your studies.
Library Services teams also offer a fantastic range of support and guidance services, including online help guides, online chat facility and on-site help.
Our dedicated Student Advice and Wellbeing (SAW) team provide a wide range of services including accommodation advice, disability support, counselling and money matters.
Assessment
Assessment varies depending on the modules you choose, but will usually include a combination of exams and coursework.
We recognise that all students perform differently depending on how they are being assessed, which is why we use a combination of assessment methods. Coursework may therefore include essays, reports, presentations, newspapers, posters, diaries and a dissertation. Exams are limited to the main core modules.
Constructive feedback is important in helping you to identify your strengths and areas where you may need to put in more work, so this will be provided regularly as you progress through each module.
Course tutors
Our staff are committed to the highest standards of teaching and learning
Angela Garden
Programme leader
Ange has a firm background in Educational and Child Psychology.She has worked in a range of schools as a teacher, in various settings as a person-centred counsellor, worked with children in play and art therapy and as a researcher and lecturer firstly at Edge Hill University and for the past 10 years at LJMU.Ange researched and published in the field of non-directive play therapy for a number of years. A joint project with Barnardos saw the development of support groups for siblings of disabled children, with peer-reviewed publications emerging from it.Her more recent research concerns the psychological impact of a diagnosis of dyslexia upon the individual higher education student with a focus on their self-esteem and self-concept in relation to their diagnosis. This research has implications for practice at university level.
Our team of specialist academics, practitioners and support staff are dedicated to ensure you receive a first-class education.
Facilities
What you can expect from your School
Based in the Education Building in the heart of the Mount Pleasant campus, the School of Education features a wide range of cutting-edge facilities, including a pedagogy room, lecture rooms, computing facilities and a nearby outdoor learning. Students also benefit from independent study spaces, a close-by cafeteria and library, and access to student welfare and support.
Entry requirements
Please choose your qualifications below to view requirements
Grades/points required from qualifications: BCC - BBB (104 - 120)
Qualification requirements
GCSEs and equivalents
Grade 4 or grade C or above in English Language and Mathematics/ Numeracy.
GCSE Equivalences accepted:
• Key Skills Level 2 in English/Maths
• NVQ Level 2 Functional skills in Maths and English Writing and or Reading
• Skills for Life Level 2 in Numeracy/English
• Higher Diploma in Maths/English
• Northern Ireland Essential Skills Level 2 in Communication or Application of Number
• Wales Essential Skills Level 2 in Communication or Application of Number
A levels
BCC-BBB
Minimum Number of A Levels: 2
Maximum AS UCAS Points: 20
BTECs
Extended Diploma: DMM
Access awards
Acceptable on its own and combined with other qualifications
Pass overall with a minimum of 104 points
International Baccalaureate
Acceptable on its own and combined with other qualifications
OCR Cambridge Technical
Acceptable on its own and combined with other qualifications
Irish awards
Acceptable on its own and combined with other qualifications
T levels
Acceptable on its own and combined with other qualifications
Alternative qualifications considered
Applications are welcomed from mature and non-standard applicants, who will be considered on an individual basis. These applicants may be required to complete a written task and/or attend a meeting with a course tutor, and should demonstrate potential and motivation and/or have relevant experience.
International applications will be considered in line with UK qualifications.
Please contact the University if you have any questions regarding the relevance of your qualifications.
Additional requirements
-
Interview required
Will I be interviewed?
No interview required (UCAS application form only).
International requirements
-
IELTS
6.0 (minimum of 5.5 in each component) or equivalent English language proficiency test.
Further information
-
DBS, Occupational Health requirements
Can this course be deferred?
Yes
Is a DBS check required?
Yes. A DBS check (Disclosure and Barring Service - formerly CRB) will be required after you start the course for placements that involve working with children and/or vulnerable adults.
-
Reduced offer scheme
As part of LJMU’s commitment to widening access we offer eligible students entry to their chosen course at a reduced threshold of up to 16/8 UCAS points. This applies if you are a student who has been in local authority care or if you have participated in one of LJMU’s sustained outreach initiatives, e.g. Summer University. Please contact the admission office for further details.
Please Note: All international qualifications are subject to a qualification equivalency check.
Application and selection
Securing your place at LJMU
UCAS is the official application route for our full-time undergraduate courses. Further information on the UCAS application process can be found here https://www.ljmu.ac.uk/study/undergraduate-students/how-to-apply.
A DBS check (Disclosure and Barring Service - formerly CRB) will be required after you start the course for placements that involve working with children and/or vulnerable adults.
The university reserves the right to withdraw or make alterations to a course and facilities if necessary; this may be because such changes are deemed to be beneficial to students, are minor in nature and unlikely to impact negatively upon students or become necessary due to circumstances beyond the control of the university. Where this does happen, the university operates a policy of consultation, advice and support to all enrolled students affected by the proposed change to their course or module.
Further information on the terms and conditions of any offer made, our admissions policy and the complaints and appeals process.