New education degree offers route into the classroom

People looking to join the education or teaching profession have two new routes into the classroom thanks to a higher education programme starting this September.

Pictured left to right are: Paula Taylor. Director of Service Sector & Caring Professions; Leanne Jones, Programme Leader – Education Studies; Emily Preston, Lecturer/Coordinator – Supporting Teaching & Learning/Early Years; Naomi Morrison, Lecturer – Early Years.

Bishop Auckland College is now taking applications for the two-year Foundation Degree in Education Studies and one-year BA (Hons) in Education Studies top-up.

The latest additions to the college’s fast growing higher education portfolio have recently been validated by the Open University and offer entry points at year 1 and year 3.

The programme is therefore suitable for applicants with current Level 3 qualifications as well as those who have already achieved a Foundation Degree in Education, who can apply for the top-up year to graduate with a BA (Hons) degree.

With so many job opportunities in the early years and primary sectors in particular, the new programmes will appeal to aspiring educators looking to complete a degree in education, which targets the 0-19 years age range, before pursuing additional teacher training to work in a school or nursery setting.

The course is also perfectly suited for teaching assistants, private nursery professionals and early years educators wanting to enhance their expertise and progress within schools, nurseries or the private sector.

The new Education Studies programmes blend theoretical knowledge with practical experience, ensuring graduates are well-prepared to meet the demands of modern education.

Students will benefit from a rich curriculum covering child development, education in the outdoors, SEND and safeguarding.

The programme also prepares future education professionals for trauma-informed practice – a key skills shortage area.

Programme Leader Leanne Jones said: “We are incredibly proud to introduce the Foundation Degree and BA (Hons) in Education Studies. These programmes reflect our dedication to delivering high-quality education and training that aligns with the needs of our community and supports the aspirations of future educators.

“By offering these degrees, we are helping to shape the next generation of teaching and educational professionals who will inspire and educate young minds.”

News of the programme’s validation by the Open University comes just days after the publication of The National Student Survey by Ipsos, which the college scored very highly in.

Nearly 350,000 undergraduates across the country were asked 27 questions in the online survey, commissioned by the Office for Students. The college received an overall average score of 92.4% from its higher education students – well above the UK average of 80.9%.

Students enrolling this September will benefit from significantly cheaper course fees than universities and will qualify for £500 cashback each year from their £7,500 course fee, with another £500 ringfenced for trips, visits and expert guest speakers. The programmes also attract Higher Education student finance.

For more information about the Foundation Degree and BA (Hons) in Education Studies, including entry requirements and how to apply, please visit our website: Foundation Degree in Education Studies / BA (Hons) in Education Studies.