Open University has participated in the Teaching Excellence Framework. These ratings were awarded in 2023, for four years.
Course summary
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 certificate of higher education will give you a sound foundation for further study relevant to a range of roles within education. You’ll be introduced to a variety of themes relating to primary education, and you’ll gain the knowledge and skills needed to work collaboratively and equitably in a range of settings. An interdisciplinary approach will also broaden your understanding of childhood and children’s lives and development. Key features of the course
- Offers a practice-focused qualification suitable for people working, volunteering or seeking to work in schools or in the wider education sector
- Covers the key themes relating to primary education and the curriculum areas of English, mathematics and science
- Explores the emotional, physical, social and cultural development of children
- Lays sound foundations for further study relevant to careers in teaching and other roles within education
Modules
This qualification has one stage, comprising 120 credits. You'll study two modules that will provide you with a broad introduction to primary education, childhood studies and child psychology.
How to apply
To apply for this course you will be taken to the provider's website, where you can find out more information and make an application.
Points of entry
The following entry points are available for this course:
- Year 1
Entry requirements
Qualification requirements
There are no qualification requirements for this course.
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 for this certificate. 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.
Please click the following link to find out more about qualification requirements for this course
Student Outcomes
Operated by the Office for Students
There is no data available for this course. For further information visit the Discover Uni website.
Fees and funding
Tuition fees
| England | £7272 | Whole course |
| Northern Ireland | £2318 | Whole course |
| Scotland | £2376 | Whole course |
| Wales | £2624 | Whole course |
| Republic of Ireland | £6984 | Whole course |
| EU | £7472 | Whole course |
| International | £7472 | Whole course |
| Channel Islands | £7472 | Whole course |
Tuition fee status depends on a number of criteria and varies according to where in the UK you will study. For further guidance on the criteria for home or overseas tuition fees, please refer to the UKCISA website .
Additional fee information
Fee information is valid for modules starting before 31 July 2025. Fees typically increase annually.
Provider information
Open University
Student Recruitment Team
PO Box 197
Milton Keynes
MK7 6BJ