BA (Hons) Primary Education with SEND

Program Overview

The BA (Hons) Primary Education with SEND program at the University of Sunderland prepares students to become highly competent primary school teachers with a specialization in supporting pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND). Through a combination of theoretical knowledge, practical experience, and a focus on inclusive education, graduates are equipped with the skills and expertise to create supportive and effective learning environments for all students. The program boasts a strong track record, competitive tuition fees, and excellent graduate employment prospects.

Program Outline

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

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.

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.

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.

Outline:

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)

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)

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)

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.