Primary and SEND Education with QTS BA (Hons)

Overview

The BA (Hons) Primary and SEND Education allows you to specialise in supporting pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities within a mainstream school, special school, or in an alternative provision.

Why us?

• Our Education courses are in the top 50 in the UK (Guardian University Guide, 2025)
• We have a dedicated placement officer for SEND, ensuring you'll receive all the support you need to find your perfect placement
• All qualified teachers will have a starting salary of at least £31,650, and this will be higher for teachers working in London
• Our teacher training courses are internationally recognised and respected, opening up opportunities for potential careers abroad

Course structure

This SEND course is taught via lectures, seminars, group work, computer-based learning and independent learning.

In-school training is an important part of this course. During that time, you will benefit from practical learning and be supported by school-based trainers, University tutors and your peers.

Your progress will be assessed with written assignments, posters, presentations and computer-based assessments (including podcasts and vodcasts). Throughout the degree you'll have one-to-one support from academic staff.

Course modules

Year 1 (national level 4):

• Core Curriculum Learning in a Primary Context 1 (30 credits)
  • This module will help you develop an understanding of core curriculum subjects in key stages 1 and 2 of the national curriculum and Early Years Foundation Stage framework in literacy, mathematics, and scientific aspects of understanding of the world.
• Wider Curriculum Learning in a Primary Context (30 credits)
  • In this module, you’ll be introduced to the content of the wider curriculum subject areas taught within the Early Years Foundation Stage and the primary national curriculum.
• Professional and Academic Learning in Primary Education 1 (30 credits)
  • This module will introduce you to the role of a professional teacher and key legislation, educational policies, and expectations.
• Preparing for Professional Practice in Primary/SEND Contexts (30 credits)
  • You’ll begin to develop purposeful integration between subject knowledge, pedagogical, and theoretical knowledge in this module, taught both in university sessions and in practical experiences in educational settings.

Year 2 (national level 5):

• Core Curriculum Learning in Primary and SEND Contexts 1 (30 credits)
  • This module will build on the knowledge gained in year 1, where you’ll continue to develop awareness of the core curriculum subjects in key stages 1 and 2 of the national curriculum and Early Years Foundation Stage Framework in literacy, mathematics, and scientific aspects of understanding of the world.
• Wider Curriculum and SEND Specialism in Primary and SEND Contexts 1 (30 credits)
  • In this module, you’ll further develop your subject knowledge in the foundation subjects within mainstream and SEND contexts.
• Professional and Academic Learning in Primary Education 2 (30 credits)
  • Building on the learning undertaken in year 1, you’ll explore significant barriers to learning within a primary context whilst supporting the development of planning, assessment, and how to provide challenge for all pupils.
• Emerging Professional Practice in a SEND Context (30 credits)
  • This module will give you the chance to continue to develop purposeful integration between subject knowledge, pedagogical, and theoretical knowledge, taught both in university sessions and in practical experiences in educational settings.

Year 3 (national level 6):

• Core Curriculum Learning in Primary and SEND Contexts 2 (30 credits)
  • In this module, you’ll build on the knowledge and skills developed in the earlier Core Curriculum Learning modules, demonstrating secure knowledge of these subjects in key stages 1 and 2 of the national curriculum and Early Years Foundation Stage Framework.
• Wider Curriculum and SEND Specialism in Primary and SEND Contexts 2 (30 credits)
  • This module will give you the opportunity to apply your subject knowledge, including distinct disciplinary knowledge, in the foundation subjects within mainstream and SEND contexts.
• Professional and Academic Learning in Primary Education 3 (30 credits)
  • Building on the learning undertaken in the Professional and Academic Learning module, this module will focus on assessment and its place within the primary curriculum.
• Professional Practice in Primary/SEND Contexts (30 credits)
  • This module will give you the opportunity to consolidate purposeful integration between subject knowledge, pedagogical, and theoretical knowledge, taught both in university sessions and practical experiences in educational settings.

Facilities

You'll be based at the recently refurbished Wearside View, situated on the award-winning Sir Tom Cowie Campus at St Peter's. This stunning riverside location benefits from dedicated library services and has superb transport links with the city centre and City Campus.

Entry requirements

Our typical offer is:

• Irish Leaving Certificate: 120 UCAS points – Students must have H1-H7 or O1-O4 in Maths & English.
• QQI/FETAC 5: Pass profile overall. For entry we also require H1-H7 or O1-O4 in Maths and English from Irish Leaving Certificate.

If you don't meet our standard entry requirements, you can take one of the foundation pathways at our partners ONCAMPUS Sunderland.

You must have a grade C or above in mathematics, science, and English language, or equivalent qualifications. If you've studied for a GCSE which has a numerical grade, you'll need to achieve a grade 4 or above.

Fees and finance

The annual, full-time fee for this course is:

• £9,535 if you are from the UK/Europe
• £16,500 if you are an international student

Career ready

Good teachers are always in high demand, so it's likely you'll find a job upon graduation. All qualified teachers will have a starting salary of at least £31,650, and this will be higher for teachers working in London.

The teachers’ pension scheme is also one of the most generous public sector pension schemes in the UK, one of the few guaranteed by the Government.

Qualified Teacher Status (QTS)

This SEND degree awards Qualified Teacher Status, which means that when you graduate you’ll be qualified to teach in any state-maintained primary school in England. Most graduates from this course go on to teach in mainstream schools, special schools or in alternative provision.

SENCO

You may want to consider becoming a Special Educational Needs Coordinator (SENCO). SENCOs are a key part of the school workforce and play a fundamental role in supporting children and young people with SEND. To become a SENCO, you will need to complete the National Award in Special Educational Needs Coordination (NASENCO) in addition to your teaching qualification, within three years of taking up a SENCO post.

Work placements

Teaching placements are an essential part of this degree. You'll spend time in schools during each year of this three-year course, gaining a true understanding of what being a primary school teacher involves, and using your new skills and knowledge. When you’re ready to start searching for a teaching job, you'll already have valuable first-hand teaching experience, as well as a wide network of professional contacts who can help you find the right career opportunities.

BA (Hons) Primary Education with SEND at the University of Sunderland

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Degree Overview:

This program equips students to excel as primary school teachers, with a specific focus on supporting pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND). It combines the standard primary teacher training with additional modules dedicated to deepening their understanding and skills related to SEND.

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Program Objectives:

• Prepare graduates to become highly competent and confident primary school teachers.
• Develop expertise in supporting pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND).
• Foster a commitment to inclusive education and catering to diverse learner needs.
• Equip students with the necessary pedagogical skills, subject knowledge, and professional skills to succeed in the teaching profession.

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Program Description:

• Students complete the full primary teacher training curriculum alongside specific SEND modules.
• These SEND modules cover topics such as:
• Specific learning difficulties and disabilities, including autism, dyslexia, ADHD, and more.
• Effective teaching and learning strategies for supporting SEND pupils.
• Creating inclusive learning environments and adapting the curriculum for diverse needs.
• Collaboration with parents, SEND specialists, and other professionals.
• Legal frameworks and policies surrounding SEND in education.
• In-school training forms a crucial part of the program, offering hands-on experience in mainstream schools, special schools, SEN units, and alternative provisions.
• Students receive guidance and support from university tutors, school-based trainers, and their fellow peers throughout their placement experiences.

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Outline:

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Year 1:

• Research and Scholarship 1 (20 credits)
• Pedagogical and Curriculum Studies in SEND 1 (40 credits)
• Observing and Reflecting on Teaching in a SEND Context (Placement) (20 credits)
• Professional Learning in SEND Contexts 1 (20 credits)
• Specialist and Wider Curriculum Studies in SEND 1 (20 credits)

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Year 2:

• Research and Scholarship 2 (20 credits)
• Pedagogical and Curriculum Studies in SEND 2 (40 credits)
• School Experience 2 (20 credits)
• Professional Learning in SEND Contexts 2 (20 credits)
• Specialist and Wider Curriculum Studies in SEND 2 (20 credits)

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Year 3:

• Development of Professional Learning (Critical Study) (30 credits)
• Negotiated Curriculum Study in Education (30 credits)
• Practice of Teaching (30 credits)
• Subject Studies (30 credits)

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Assessment:

The program utilizes a diverse range of assessment methods to assess student progress and achievement:

• Written assignments: Essays, research papers, and other written tasks evaluate students' understanding of theoretical concepts and ability to apply knowledge in practical contexts.
• Posters and presentations: Visual presentations allow students to demonstrate their research findings and communication skills effectively.
• Computer-based assessments: Online platforms provide innovative assessment tools for evaluating understanding and application of knowledge, including the creation of podcasts and vodcasts.
• Individual and group projects: Collaborative and self-directed projects foster teamwork, problem-solving skills, and critical thinking.
• Portfolio presentation: Students curate a portfolio demonstrating their professional development journey throughout the program, showcasing their skills, reflection, and growth as future educators.

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Teaching:

The program offers a dynamic learning environment that blends lectures, seminars, group work, computer-based learning, and independent studies. In-school training provides practical experience alongside professional mentorship and support. Throughout the program, students receive one-to-one guidance from academic staff to ensure personalized and effective learning experiences.

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Careers:

Graduates pursuing a career in primary education with a SEND specialism will find various employment opportunities:

• Mainstream primary schools: Contributing to inclusive classrooms and supporting children with diverse needs.
• Special schools: Providing specialized educational support and interventions for students with more significant learning difficulties and disabilities.
• SEN units within mainstream schools: catering to the specific needs of SEND pupils within mainstream educational settings.
• Alternative provisions: Working with SEND students in diverse settings beyond traditional classrooms.
Additional career avenues include:
• Educational consultant or specialist teacher: Providing advice, support, and training to other teachers on best practices in supporting SEND learners.
• SENCO (Special Educational Needs Coordinator): Leading and managing SEND provision within educational institutions.
• Continuing postgraduate studies: Further specializing in specific areas of SEND or pursuing research-driven careers in the field.

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Other:

The University of Sunderland has a strong track record in education, ranking 12th in the UK (Guardian University Guide, 2023). This program boasts several additional benefits for students:

• dedicated SEND placement officer facilitating placement opportunities in line with individual interests and career aspirations.
• a strong focus on hands-on learning through placements and practical exercises.
• competitive tuition fees with the potential for scholarship support for eligible students.
• a small cohort size allowing for close relationships and personalized interactions with fellow students and teaching staff.
• excellent graduate employment prospects as teachers, exceeding national benchmarks.
• a "Good" rating from Ofsted inspection, signifying the program's high-quality standards.

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The annual, full-time fee is: £9,250 if you're from the UK/Europe £16,000 if you're an international student (EU nationals will receive a £5,750 scholarship to reduce their fee to £10,250)

• The discounted fee will be reflected in your offer letter.
Learn more in our Help and Advice article.

University of Sunderland

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Overview:

The University of Sunderland is a public university located in Sunderland, England. It offers a diverse range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across various disciplines. The university has a strong focus on providing a supportive and inclusive learning environment for its students.

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Services Offered:

The University of Sunderland provides a comprehensive range of services to its students, including:

Academic Support:

Access to libraries, learning resources, and academic advisors.

Student Support:

Counseling, mental health services, and disability support.

Accommodation:

On-campus and off-campus housing options.

Career Services:

Career guidance, job search assistance, and internship opportunities.

Student Life:

A vibrant student union, clubs, societies, and social events.

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Student Life and Campus Experience:

The university boasts a diverse and inclusive campus community where students can connect with people from different backgrounds and cultures. Students can participate in extracurricular activities, engage in personal and professional development opportunities, and enjoy a vibrant social scene.

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Key Reasons to Study There:

Top-Quality Facilities:

The university has modern facilities, including a state-of-the-art library, sports facilities, and dedicated learning spaces.

Inclusive Culture:

The university fosters a welcoming and inclusive environment for all students.

Vibrant City:

Sunderland is a dynamic city with a rich history and a low cost of living.

Strong Industry Links:

The university has strong connections with local businesses and industries, providing students with valuable career opportunities.

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Academic Programs:

The University of Sunderland offers a wide range of academic programs, including:

Arts and Design:

Fashion, Photography, Fine Art, and Graphic Design.

Sciences:

Pharmacy, Nursing, Medicine, and Biology.

Business and Law:

Business Management, Finance, Law, and Tourism.

Computing and Engineering:

Computer Science, Software Engineering, and Electrical Engineering.

Education and Social Sciences:

Education, Psychology, and Social Work.

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Other:

The university has campuses in Sunderland, London, and Hong Kong, offering students a global learning experience. It is also recognized for its commitment to sustainability and equality, diversity, and inclusion.