BA (Hons) Early Childhood and Primary Education (including a Foundation Year) Bachelor's degree at the University of Chester
BA (Hons) Early Childhood and Primary Education (including a Foundation Year) at University of Chester. You'll develop knowledge across core theory, research and methods, applied practice, specialist options, an independent project, and professional skills.
About this course
BA (Hons) Early Childhood and Primary Education (including a Foundation Year) is a Bachelor's degree (BA (Hons)) at the University of Chester, based in Chester Parkgate Road/Kingsway/Riverside/Queen's Park Campus. It runs 4 years, studied full-time.
For Education graduates from this provider, 95% were in work or further study 15 months after graduating, 30% in highly skilled roles, typical earnings around £19,000. (HESA Graduate Outcomes / LEO, via Discover Uni.)
For the typical curriculum, specialisations, career paths and graduate earnings for Education & Teaching, see the sections below.
Course evidence score
The arithmetic mean of the official measures available for this course: NSS satisfaction, graduate activity and continuation.
Published threshold met NSS publication requires sufficient responses; small differences are not a rank. NSS mean of 7 published themes (Discover Uni snapshot 2026-06-21)
Limited evidence Published sample: 20; treat comparisons cautiously. Cohort 2021-23. Graduate Outcomes work or further study 95% (2022-23; Discover Uni snapshot 2026-06-21)
Published threshold met Discover Uni suppresses continuation data below its publication threshold. Cohort 2022-23. Continuation 76% (2022-23; Discover Uni snapshot 2026-06-21)
Curriculum & modules
Real modules published for this course, grouped only where the source gives a year, stage or level.
Foundation Year 3 modules
- Exploring Professional PracticeCore40 credits
Module details
This module is designed to enable you to explore your future career and provide an environment where you can begin to focus on the professional values, skills and knowledge needed to succeed in your field. We will explore the history of your chosen profession, the changing nature of the role, and the social and political context surrounding this. You will have the opportunity to consider the professional codes, values and expectations that relate to your career as well as the various roles you c
- Social Issues and ContextsCore40 credits
Module details
The module introduces students to a range of social issues that are of concern across the social sciences, including for sociological, psychological, criminological and legal studies, as well as for people-focussed professional courses. It also encourages students to analyse the wider social and historical contexts for various public policy, legal and criminal justice scenarios, cases and debates. Additionally, the module provides students with support to advance their academic communication and
- Leadership, Coaching and Change ManagementCore40 credits
Module details
This module explores the principles and practices of leadership, coaching, and change management within diverse professional contexts, including education, social work, sports management, policing, and business. Students will build self-awareness, develop coaching and leadership skills, and learn how to manage individual, team, and organizational change effectively. By combining theory with practical application, the module prepares students to navigate real-world challenges in their chosen fiel
Year 1 9 modules
- Exploring Education: Looking Back to Look ForwardCore40 credits
Module details
This module introduces you to the historical and contemporary landscape of childhood education, focusing on key educational theories, practices, and systems. It will explore how education has evolved from ancient times to the present day, and how different societal, political, and cultural factors have influenced its development. Students will engage with issues such as equality of access to education, the function of the state, the role of women and the changing aims and values of education.
- The Playful Mind: Creativity and Learning through PlayCore20 credits
Module details
This module introduces students to the fundamental role of play in human creativity, learning, and development across the lifespan. By examining key theories, concepts, and practices surrounding play, students will explore how playful activities stimulate cognitive, emotional, and social growth. The module aims to empower students to appreciate and apply the dynamics of play in both educational and professional contexts, emphasising its interdisciplinary relevance in fostering innovation, proble
- Holistic Development: Unveiling the Mysteries of ChildhoodCore40 credits
Module details
This module introduces students to the multifaceted nature of child development and education, exploring cognitive, emotional, social, and physical domains. Students will engage with key theoretical frameworks and critically analyse how various environmental and cultural factors shape children's growth. The module encourages a holistic approach, examining the interrelationship between different developmental aspects from birth to early adolescence. By unveiling the complexities of childhood, stu
- Stepping into Practice: An Introduction to Placement LearningOptional20 credits
Module details
This module provides students with the opportunity to engage in a professional placement focused on child-centred practice. Students will develop practical skills, reflective abilities, and a deeper understanding of how to support children's holistic development. The placement experience aims to enhance students' capacity to work with children in diverse settings, emphasising child welfare, rights, and inclusive practices.
- German: Communication in PracticeOptional20 credits
Module details
This module enables students with A-Level German or equivalent to further develop their grammar, vocabulary and expression and apply these to real world situations.You will work with written and recorded texts on a range of cultural, personal and social topics and will develop your oral and written communication skills at Post-A level.
- French: Communication in PracticeOptional20 credits
Module details
This module is designed for students that have completed A-Level or equivalent in French. You will further develop your grammar, vocabulary and expression and apply these to real world situations. You will work with written and recorded texts on a range of cultural, personal and social topics and will develop your oral and written communication skills at Post-A level.
- Spanish: Communication in PracticeOptional20 credits
Module details
This module is designed for students that have completed an A-Level or equivalent in Spanish. You will further develop your grammar, vocabulary and expression and apply these to real world situations. You will work with written and recorded texts on a range of cultural, personal and social topics and will develop oral and written communication skills at Post-A level.
- Chinese: Intermediate Language DevelopmentOptional20 credits
Module details
This module is designed for students who have completed GCSE in Chinese or equivalent. You will further develop your grammar, vocabulary and learning conventions for spelling and pronunciation. You will work with written and recorded texts on a range of cultural, personal and social topics and will develop oral and written communication skills at an intermediate level.
- French: Intermediate Language DevelopmentOptional20 credits
Module details
This module is designed for students who have completed GCSE or equivalent in French. You will further develop your grammar, vocabulary and learning conventions for spelling and pronunciation. You will work with written and recorded texts on a range of cultural, personal and social topics and will develop oral and written communication skills at an intermediate level.
Source: provider course page. Modules can change; required/optional status, credits, descriptions and assessment are shown only when explicitly published.
Course in depth
What this course covers, who it suits and where it leads.
What you'll study
This course integrates a Foundation Year to prepare you for degree-level study before moving into Early Childhood and Primary Education. A typical Education & Teaching degree progresses from foundational theory to classroom practice. In the early years, you'll usually study how children learn and develop cognitively and emotionally, alongside foundations of education and school organisation. Concurrent with this, observation and supported teaching placements start early. As you progress, you'll move into curriculum design, pedagogy across core subjects, and supporting learners with special educational needs and disabilities through sustained classroom placements. In later years, you'll develop professional expertise in behaviour management, assessment and teaching standards, then pursue specialist options such as early years, subject specialisms, education policy, SEND and inclusion, or school placements. A final placement and QTS assessment leads towards qualified teacher status on eligible routes.
Who it's for
This course suits those committed to working with young children and primary-age pupils. The Foundation Year means you don't need specific prior qualifications, though most entrants held A-levels or equivalent. You'll combine academic study with applied practice, preparing you for a career in early childhood settings or primary schools.
Careers & job market
Nationally, 90% of Education and Teaching graduates are in work or further study within 15 months of graduating. Of those working, 70% are in highly skilled roles or undertaking further study. Graduate earnings across the field vary: starting salaries typically range from £22,000 to £30,000 at 15 months; after five years, £21,250 to £30,000. These are national figures from Graduate Outcomes and LEO data, not university-specific guarantees. Check the university's funding pages for bursaries and scholarships.
University & format
This is a 4-year full-time degree offered at the University of Chester, taught on its Chester Parkgate Road, Kingsway, Riverside and Queen's Park campuses. The University of Chester is a recognised UK degree-awarding body, and its degrees are nationally recognised. Instruction is in English. The university holds a Silver rating for teaching quality from the Office for Students' TEF 2023.
Student satisfaction
How students on this course answered the National Student Survey, by theme.
Share of students responding positively.
Published threshold met NSS publication requires sufficient responses; small differences are not a rank. NSS mean of 7 published themes (Discover Uni snapshot 2026-06-21)
Applicant information
The next application dates for this course, followed by facts the provider publishes.
- 2027 entryCompleted applications can be submitted
Your application needs a reference before you can send it.
- 2026 entryFinal date for 2026 applications
Applications must reach UCAS by 18:00 UK time.
- 2026 entryLast day to add a Clearing choice
Check that this course still has a vacancy before adding it.
- 2027 entryEqual-consideration deadline
18:00 UK time for most undergraduate courses.
Show 5 later dates
- 2027 entryUCAS Extra opens
Applicants who used all five choices and hold no offer may be able to add another choice.
- 2027 entryLast day applications go directly to providers
Applications received after 18:00 UK time are entered into Clearing.
- 2027 entryClearing opens
Eligible applicants can see vacancies and release themselves into Clearing.
- 2027 entryFinal date for 2027 applications
Applications must reach UCAS by 18:00 UK time.
- 2027 entryLast day to add a Clearing choice
Check that this course still has a vacancy before adding it.
Placement year. Availability, selection and pay can vary.
See and book current events. Dates can fill or change.
Entry & how to get in
Who gets in
What recently admitted students actually held, official admissions data, not a stated requirement.
UCAS tariff of entrants
Grades are the A-level equivalent of each points band. Tap a band to check your own chances below.
Qualifications held on entry
| Qualification | Share |
|---|---|
| A-levels or equivalent | 95% |
| No / unknown prior qualifications | 5% |
Entry & your chances
An honest read from the official entry data, plus your personal match.
Accepted students came in with a broad spread of qualifications and UCAS points. If you're worried about grades, this course has historically taken a wide range, and contextual offers may apply.
Will you get in? Plot your grades
Pick your predicted A-levels and watch your UCAS points land on the real spread of students admitted to this course.
Each bar is the share of admitted students in that UCAS-points band (lower → higher). Grades show the A-level equivalent.
Based on the official admitted-student tariff distribution. Many universities make contextual (reduced-grade) offers, so a result below the range doesn’t rule you out.
How to apply
Undergraduate applications go through UCAS. Here’s what matters for this course, the right deadline, the grades to aim for, and the steps in order.
- 1Register on UCAS Hub
Create your UCAS application and add this course (code X325). One application covers up to five choices.
- 2Write your personal statement
A single statement covers all your choices, so keep it broad enough for similar courses while showing genuine interest in this subject.
- 3Submit by 13 January 2027, 18:00 UK time
UCAS equal-consideration deadline for most undergraduate courses. Source: UCAS 2027 dates.
- 4Reply to your offers
When decisions are in, pick a firm (first) choice and an insurance (back-up) choice with slightly lower grades.
- 5Results day & confirmation
On results day (mid-August) your place is confirmed if you meet the offer. Just missed? Talk to the university, or find a place through Clearing.
Fees & funding
What this course costs and how UK student finance covers it.
Tuition per year
Provider fee page (England 2026/27 cap where not stated).
Check fees at University of Chester →For students who normally live in England
2026/27 Student Finance England figures. Maintenance support is means-tested and this two-point view is not an entitlement calculator. The course total uses its published length and home fee where both are available; a missing full-time fee uses the clearly labelled England-cap scenario, while part-time fees and unknown lengths are never guessed. Use the official calculator. Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland use separate systems: SAAS, Student Finance Wales, and Student Finance NI.
Starting on or after 1 January 2027?
The Lifelong Learning Entitlement is a separate system. A new learner’s tuition entitlement is currently stated as £39,160 (about 480 credits at 2026/27 fee levels), subject to prior study and eligibility. Check the official LLE guide.
Paying for it
- Tuition Fee Loan: can cover eligible tuition up to the applicable limit and is paid straight to the provider.
- Maintenance Loan: up to £10,830/yr away from home outside London (England, 2026/27), means-tested on household income.
- Repayment: 9% of income above £25,000, nothing below it; written off after 40 years.
- Earn alongside: most students work part-time in term, part-time roles on the StudySmarter job board.
England figures shown; Scotland, Wales & NI run their own schemes, check gov.uk.
Scholarships & bursaries you could qualify for
That does not mean no funding exists. Check the university directory for current amounts, eligibility and application dates.
National funding for this subject
- Teacher-training bursaries: Postgraduate bursaries and scholarships are available for selected shortage subjects. Official guidance
We only display a named award when its provider source identifies the award and who it is for.
Still deciding what to study?
StudyKit brings course choice, applications and funding together in one place, with a personal AI assistant. Find what really fits you and start your UCAS application step by step.
Careers & earnings
What Education & Teaching graduates actually earn, from real outcome data, 15 months, 3 years and 5 years after graduating.
Graduate earnings: this course
| When | Median | Typical range | Graduates |
|---|---|---|---|
| 15 months after | £19,000 | £15,000 – £23,000 | 20 |
| 3 years after | £21,500 | £16,500 – £25,000 | 105 |
| 5 years after | £26,000 | £18,500 – £30,500 | 110 |
Nominal earnings for graduates of this course/subject at this provider. Limited evidence. Published sample: 20; treat comparisons cautiously. Cohort 2021-23.
Graduate outcomes, 15 months on: this course
- 1Graduate roleFirst role after the degree · 0–2 yrs
- 2Specialist / PractitionerWorking in education & teaching · 2–5 yrs
- 3Senior / LeadLeading work and people · 5–10 yrs
- 4Head of / ExpertSenior leadership or deep expertise · 10+ yrs
How pay grows: this course vs Education & Teaching nationally
National figures for Education & Teaching graduates, HESA Graduate Outcomes (15 months) and the Longitudinal Education Outcomes (LEO) dataset (3 & 5 years). These are national, not university-specific; actual pay varies by employer, region, role and experience. Different cohorts, so the bars are not one group over time.
Work out your pay
Headline figures hide a lot. Calculate realistic take-home pay for this field by role, region and experience, then check your CV before you apply.
What happened to 100 students?
Choose an outcome to translate the published percentage into a simple 100-person view. Each dot represents one percentage point, not an individual tracked student.
were in work or further study
15 months after graduation
Source: Discover Uni, using Graduate Outcomes and continuation data. Cohorts: 2022-23. Limited evidence. Published sample: 20; treat comparisons cautiously. Cohort 2021-23. Each tab is a separate published measure; categories can overlap and should not be added together.
Value compared with similar courses
How this course’s 5-year median earnings compare with Education & Teaching courses at the same study level.
Compared with 515 courses with compatible official earnings data. This is a course-value comparison, not a quality ranking.
UK occupations graduates enter
Published graduate destinations, joined conservatively to UK SOC 2020, ONS pay and Skills England demand.
- Teaching and Childcare Support OccupationDiscover Uni category · 40% of published destinations
- Elementary occupationsSOC 2020 9 · 20% of published destinations · ASHE median £19,087
Discover Uni JOBLIST/JOBTYPE; ONS ASHE 2025 provisional, all employee jobs; Skills England Occupations in Demand 2025. SOC is shown only for an exact normalised label match; demand is shown only at exact four-digit SOC. Published sample: 35; response rate: 50%. Pay describes the occupation across workers, not a guaranteed graduate salary.
Job market & outlook
How Education & Teaching graduates fare in the labour market, and how AI is reshaping the work.
How AI is changing the work
AI doesn't replace the profession, it shifts it: routine tasks get automated, while judgement, working with people and using AI well become more valuable.
What AI takes off your plate
- Routine information gathering
- First-draft writing and summaries
- Standard analysis and admin
- Repetitive processing tasks
More human than ever
- Judgement and original thinking
- Working with and leading people
- Owning and sense-checking AI output
- Ethics and accountability
The strongest graduates pair subject depth with the ability to use AI tools critically.
Roles & employers
Where Education & Teaching graduates typically go, indicative destinations from graduate career data. Each role links to live openings on the StudySmarter job board.
Roles graduates go into
Where they work
- Schools & academy trusts
- Local authorities
- Education charities
- Tutoring providers
Jobs after this course
Current roles from the StudySmarter job board that suit Education & Teaching graduates.
Education SEN MentorMacIntyreEducation Recruitment ConsultantAcademicsEducation Delivery Consultant - Fast Paced, Dynamic Organisation - WorcestershireAP EducationEducation Trustee - Lead Youth Careers & Outdoor LearningRacing to SchoolEducation Recruitment Consultant - Build Futures & Earn UncappedProtocol EducationEducation Recruitment Consultant: Grow Your Desk & ImpactEducation AssetsIs this course right for you?
The essentials UK applicants ask about: finance, outcomes, entry and quality.
Student finance
For comparison, the standard full-time England tuition cap is up to £9,790 per year in 2026/27; the actual fee varies by course and provider. If you normally live in England, eligible students can apply for a Tuition Fee Loan, plus a Maintenance Loan for living costs. Under Plan 5 you repay 9% of income above £25,000, nothing below that, and the balance is written off after 40 years.
Where graduates go
95% were in work or further study 15 months after graduating, with a median salary of £19,000. See the full breakdown in Careers & earnings above.
Your entry chances
Use the UCAS points calculator above to see how your predicted grades compare with admitted students, and whether a contextual offer could apply.
Official-data snapshot
Averaging the official measures published for it, this course scores 8.5 out of 10: NSS 83.3% · in work or study 95% · continued 76%.
Who studies here and in this subject?
Provider- and UK subject-level context.
University of Chester
Education and teaching across the UK
HESA student record 2024/25. Counts are rounded.
Local crime-data context
A neutral snapshot around the published teaching location.
Around Chester Parkgate Road/Kingsway/Riverside/Queen's Park Campus
1,406 street-level reports returned within roughly one mile across 2026-04 to 2026-06.
Police.uk street-level API. Approximate locations, not confined to campus. England, Wales and Northern Ireland; not Scotland.
Is Education & Teaching right for you?
Tick what applies to you and see how good a fit it is.
International students
What applying to University of Chester from outside the UK involves: fees, English, visa, funding and living costs.
Tuition fees
International tuition is £14,950 / year for this course (from the provider’s fee page). You’re not eligible for UK Tuition Fee or Maintenance Loans, so plan for fees plus living costs upfront.
English language
Most UK undergraduate courses ask for around IELTS 6.0–6.5 (no band below 5.5–6.0), or an accepted equivalent. If you’re just short, most universities run a pre-sessional English course that counts towards the requirement.
Student visa
You’ll usually need a Student visa (Student Route). After you accept an offer the university issues a CAS; you then show funds for fees plus about £1,023–£1,334/month living costs and pay the Immigration Health Surcharge for NHS access.
Scholarships & funding
Many universities offer international/global scholarships (often £2,000–£6,000/yr), check University of Chester’s funding pages.
Living costs
Budget roughly £1,100–£1,400/month outside London and £1,400–£1,800/month in London for rent, food and travel; the figure also matters for your visa.
Working while you study
A Student visa usually allows up to 20 hours/week in term time and full-time in holidays, useful alongside study, though not something to rely on for fees.
Visa rules and fees change. Always confirm the current requirements with University of Chester and gov.uk before you apply.
Related courses
More at University of Chester
Common questions
How competitive is entry?
What are the entry requirements?
What do graduates go on to do?
What will it cost me?
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