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Education Studies - Primary

Open University
W54

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 diploma will give you a sound foundation for further study relevant to a range of roles in primary education.

Award Name Diploma of Higher Education at UK Level 5
NFQ Classification
Awarding Body Open University
NFQ Level
Award Name NFQ Classification Awarding Body NFQ Level
Diploma of Higher Education at UK Level 5 Open University
Course Provider:
Location:
Dublin City Centre
Attendance Options:
Full time, Part time, Online or Distance
Qualification Letters:
DipHE
Apply to:
Course provider
Number of credits:
240

Duration

How long it takes
Part time – 4 years
Full time – 2 years
Time limit – 8 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 and E209. If you cannot spend time in practice settings, 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 Diploma of Higher Education in Education Studies (Primary) gives you a sound foundation for a range of roles relating to primary education, including helping you prepare to apply for teacher training. 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.

Course Web Page

Further information

Register for this course.
Start dates
• October 2024: Registration closes 05/09/2024
• Credit transfer: apply by 08/08/2024

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 diploma will give you a sound foundation for further study relevant to a range of roles in primary education. You’ll develop your understanding of policy and practice in primary education, and gain the knowledge and skills needed to work collaboratively and equitably in a range of settings.

Key features of the course
• Designed for people working with or interested in the development and education of children aged between 3 and 12.
• Offers a practice-focused qualification suitable for people working, volunteering or seeking to work in schools or in the wider education sector.
• Supports theory and evidence-based practice and professional development.
• Opportunity to choose from a range of option modules according to your needs or interests.
• Prepares you for further study, enquiry and research, and for careers in teaching and other roles within education.

This qualification has two stages, each 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.
• Then, in Stage 2, you’ll study a module that further develops your subject knowledge of the primary curriculum. You'll follow this with one module from a choice of options.

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.

Course Provider:
Location:
Dublin City Centre
Attendance Options:
Full time, Part time, Online or Distance
Qualification Letters:
DipHE
Apply to:
Course provider
Number of credits:
240