Primary Teaching
If you have the relevant Standard grades, Higher grades or other Higher level qualifications (e.g. HNC, HND), you could obtain a degree in any subject then do a one year postgraduate Professional Graduate Diploma in Education (PGDE) teacher training course.
How do I obtain a degree?
If you already have Higher level qualifications you will need to upgrade your HNC/HND to a degree. You should look at the prospectus or website of the university that you are interested in applying to for the specific entry requirements for each course.
Learndirect Scotland will give you more information on degree course availability and the universities which offer degrees. Find out what the options are at www.learndirect.co.uk
1. How do I get onto the one-year PGDE (Primary) course?
You must have at least:
- A degree from a UK university (or an equivalent degree from outside the UK)
- Higher English at Grade C or above (or equivalent)
- Standard Grade Maths at Credit level (or equivalent)
The universities will also want to see evidence that you have studied at least two of the following subjects: Science, Social Studies, Expressive Arts, Religious and Moral Education, Technology and Modern Languages.
It's also essential that you get as much experience as possible of working with children of primary school age. For example, this could be as a classroom assistant or as a Brownie or Cub Group leader. If you are also able to gain experience at after-school clubs or sports coaching or music tuition, this is also good to mention on your application form. You'll also need a good understanding of the Primary Education system in Scotland.
If you don’t have a degree you can undertake a four-year undergraduate Bachelor of Education (BEd) degree course in Primary Education.
2. What are the entry requirements for the Bachelor of Education (BEd) degree course?
Entry requirements differ between universities depending on their admissions policy but are usually four Highers at BBBC or three Highers at ABB. You must have Higher English at level B and Credit level Standard Grade Maths (or equivalent).
You will also have to show that you have experience working with children and through voluntary work with youth groups, sports clubs etc. If you do not have Higher qualifications you should consider doing an access course into teaching.
SWAP (the Scottish Wider Access Programme) is dedicated to providing opportunities for adults with few or no qualifications to access Higher education. SWAP provides guidance and support and the pace of the programme is designed to build up confidence and knowledge as the programme progresses.
Most SWAP Access Programmes are one year full-time and are run by Further Education Colleges, starting in August each year. Progress is usually monitored by continuous assessment and support is provided by a personal tutor.
For more information contact the Scottish Wider Access Programme on 0800 731 0949 or check their website at www.scottishwideraccess.org which this has both information on course by region and each regional offices' contact details.
