BA (Hons) Education Studies (with Foundation Year)

4 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

Wrexham Glyndwr University

Program Overview

The BA (Hons) Education Studies (with Foundation Year) at Wrexham Glyndŵr University gives students a flexible, supportive entry into higher education — especially useful for those who may not yet meet the standard entry criteria or who want more time to adjust academically. The programme offers a broad grounding in education, childhood development, and social context — designed for those aiming to work with children aged 3–11, or to go on to further teaching/training such as PGCE or adult education.

Curriculum Structure

Year 1 (Foundation Year)
During the Foundation Year, students build the academic and study‑skills foundation required for undergraduate studies. Core modules include Study Skills for Success, Resilience in Higher Education and Beyond, A Day in the Life (exploring career pathways), and Life and Work in the Welsh Context. Optional modules, such as basic numeracy, workplace communication, and introductory Welsh language, allow flexibility depending on student background. This year gives time to adapt, explore interests, and prepare for full-time degree work.

Year 2 (Level 4)
Once the foundation year is completed, students move into Level 4 where they begin formal education‑studies training. Modules include Learning and Teaching in Primary Education, Contemporary Debates in Childhood and Education, Psychology of Childhood, Professional Practice for Childhood and Education (including safeguarding, ethics, and a six‑week placement), and Skills for Study and Employability.

Year 3 (Level 5)
In the third year of full study, students deepen their knowledge in specialised areas. They study Additional Learning Needs and Neurodiversity, Social Action – Supporting Children and Families in Society, Children’s Rights and the Law, and Practice‑Informed Research, paired with an extended 8‑week placement enabling real‑world exposure. By the end of this year, they will have gathered data for their final‑year dissertation.

Year 4 (Level 6)
In the final year, the emphasis shifts to advanced understanding, leadership, and professional development. Modules include Comparative Education: International Perspectives, Exploring Expressive Arts, Leadership and Professional Development, and a Dissertation based on primary research — demonstrating capacity for independent, evidence‑based study. A short placement at this level strengthens employability and leadership skills.

Focus Areas
Education theory and policy; psychology of childhood; primary education foundations; inclusion and additional learning needs; children’s rights and social justice; community and family support; diversity and social context; expressive arts and cultural education; research in education; practical placements and professional preparation.

Learning Outcomes
Graduates will be able to critically understand educational contexts and childhood development, design and support inclusive and socially aware education or community‑support initiatives, apply psychological and sociological insights to work with children and families, conduct ethical research, engage with arts and culture in education, and pursue roles in education support, youth work, social services, or further teaching qualifications such as PGCE/PCET.

Professional Alignment (Future Pathways)
Though this degree does not grant automatic teacher‑status, it prepares students to enter further teacher‑training programmes such as PGCE for primary education or further education training, or to work in roles such as learning support, youth/community services, childcare, family support, social policy, or educational research.

Reputation (Student Satisfaction & Recognition)
The Education subject area at Wrexham Glyndŵr University is ranked in the UK’s top 5 for teaching quality and student satisfaction. The programme is well regarded, with supportive teaching, good resources, and high levels of student satisfaction.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

This programme allows students to build a solid foundation in education theory and practice before progressing to the full degree. The foundation year focuses on developing academic skills, understanding key concepts in education, and gaining initial practical experience in educational settings. From the first year onward, students benefit from a combination of classroom-based learning and hands-on placements, preparing them for a successful career in education or related fields.

Experiential elements include:

Foundation-year activities introducing students to schools, early-years settings, and community educational projects.
Collaborative group projects and workshops that develop teamwork, communication, and problem-solving skills relevant to education.
Practical placements in later years, allowing students to observe, support, and deliver learning sessions in schools or early-years settings.
Field trips and visits to educational institutions to experience different teaching methods and organisational practices.
Final-year research project enabling students to explore a topic of interest in education, applying practical and research skills in real-world contexts.

Programme Strengths & Student Outcomes

Foundation year prepares students for the academic and practical demands of the degree, ensuring confidence and readiness for higher-level study.
Multidisciplinary curriculum covering education theory, psychology, sociology, policy, and practice.
Emphasis on inclusion, diversity, and social justice, equipping students to work effectively with learners from varied backgrounds.
Development of transferable skills including communication, critical thinking, planning, and reflective practice.
Graduates are prepared for careers in schools, early-years settings, youth work, educational support, community services, policy development, research, or further study in teaching or education-related fields.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates of the BA (Hons) Education Studies (with Foundation Year) program at Wrexham Glyndŵr University gain a solid grounding in educational theory and practice, preparing them for diverse roles in the education sector. They can pursue careers as educational support workers, teaching assistants, learning mentors, or community education coordinators:

University Careers and Employability Service: Wrexham Glyndŵr University provides dedicated support, including career coaching, CV and interview preparation, and guidance on securing placements in schools and educational settings.
Employment statistics and salary figures: Graduates typically start in roles with salaries ranging from £20,000 to £28,000, with opportunities for progression into leadership, specialist, or coordinator roles.
University–industry partnerships: The program collaborates with local schools, educational authorities, and community learning centres, offering valuable placement experience and professional networking.
Long-term accreditation value: The degree equips graduates with a recognised academic qualification in education, enhancing employability and supporting progression into specialist or teaching roles.
Graduation outcomes: Many graduates move into educational support, programme management, or community education roles, with some advancing into leadership, policy, or consultancy positions.

Further Academic Progression:
Graduates may continue their studies through Master’s programs in Education, Educational Leadership, Special Educational Needs, or Youth and Community Studies. They may also undertake postgraduate teaching qualifications or specialist certifications to expand career prospects and professional expertise within the education sector.