PGCE Early Years
An important feature of the PGCE Early Years programme is that you will receive specialist training, which prepares you for the role of curriculum leader/coordinator of Early Years in schools. This training will cover all aspects of the Foundation Stage curriculum (age 3-5), and the Key Stage 1 curriculum (age 5-7).
One of the most encouraging aspects of the course at Exeter University is the emphasis placed on developing children's natural curiosity and enthusiasm across the whole curriculum and beyond. John - Paul Gentry
There will be an emphasis on understanding children's learning and development, and the role and value of play, within the wider contexts of theory, research, policy and practice. In addition, students will learn about the particular dimensions of the role of the early years specialist. School experience will be in Foundation Stage (nursery and reception) and Key Stage 1 classes.
Entry Requirements
We are looking for graduates with a good, all-round academic profile, usually a 2.1 degree, and prior relevant experience of working with young children (at least two weeks observation experience in a state primary school). Students can have a degree in any National Curriculum subject or in broader areas e.g. psychology, sociology, educational studies.
Passes at GCSE in English, Mathematics and Science at Grade C. Please note that although the TDA requirement is a grade C, we will generally only consider applicants with a grade B or above in Mathematics and English and a grade C in Science.
Academic Staff
Dr Liz Wood coordinates the specialist early years strand and leads one group. She has extensive experience, and has published widely in Early Childhood Education. A key research interest is the role of play in learning and the early childhood curriculum.
Dr Fran Martin also leads one group on the specialist early years strand. She qualified as an Early Years teacher in 1980 and has been working in Initial Teacher Education since 1993. Her research interests are how students develop as effective teachers of primary geography, and teacher understanding of, and practice in, global and sustainable development education. Fran is editor of the Geographical Association's primary journal "Primary Geographer".
Module Information
Current modules:
- Primary Foundation Curriculum Studies (EFS3000)
- Primary Educational & Professional Studies (EPS3000)
- Primary School-Based Work (ESB3003)
- Primary Core Curriculum Studies (ECSM001)
- Primary Early Years Specialism (ESYM001)
Current Student Locations
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