| 1. |
Admissions |
| |
| 1.1 |
Applicants for admission to the programme will be required to have completed work equivalent to the first two years of a full-time Honours degree. Qualifications permitting eligibility for entry to the degree include:
- GCSE passes or equivalent at grades A, B or C in English, Mathematics or Science (preferably Double Science);
- Foundation Degree in a related subject or at least 220 CATS (110 ECTS) credits in a related field.
|
| 1.2 |
Exceptionally, and subject to the approval of the Programme Board, an applicant possessing other qualifications and experience may be admitted by the Programme Board. All candidates for admission will be interviewed. |
| 1.3 |
All BA (QTS) entrants will have to meet the Secretary of State’s requirements for physical and mental fitness to teach, as detailed in the relevant circular. It is a DfES requirement that all students should be medically fit before embarking upon a programme which leads directly to the award of QTS. Candidates offered places on the BA (QTS) programme will be asked to complete a health form. Candidates unable to verify fitness may be required to submit to, and to pay for, a formal medical examination. |
| 1.4 |
Systems are in place to seek information on whether BA (QTS) entrants have a criminal background which might prevent them working with young persons, or as a teacher, and ensure that entrants have not previously been excluded from teaching or working with children. |
| 1.5 |
For those applicants with fewer than 220 CATS (110 ECTS) credits, it may be possible to apply for Special Admission. Applications will need to be evidenced against the identified learning outcomes with appropriate professional qualifications and/or work experience and will need to be substantiated by submission of a portfolio of work related evidence together with an assignment reflecting on these experiences. Applications via special admissions will follow the School's procedures for such applications. |
| 1.6 |
In line with the University’s Equal Opportunities Policy, individuals are treated on their relevant merits and abilities and are given equal opportunities within the module, School and University. The aim of the policy is to ensure that no prospective student or current student should receive any less favourable treatment on any grounds which are not relevant to academic ability and attainment. Every effort is made to ensure that disabled students are aware of and assisted in making use of the support provided by the University; to ensure access to lectures, classes, learning materials; and to ensure that where necessary appropriate variations to normal examining arrangements are made.
Additionally, the BA (QTS) programme positively acknowledges the value of diversity in the teaching workforce and welcomes applications from candidates from a range of backgrounds. All procedures comply with the guidance provided in Able to Teach: Guidance for providers of initial teacher training on disability discrimination and fitness to teach (TDA 2007). |
|
|
| 2. |
Structure of Programme(s) |
| |
| 2.1 |
The degree will normally be completed over a minimum of two years full time and a maximum of four years. |
| 2.2 |
The degree comprises five 20 CATS credit modules and one 40 CATS credit module. In addition students are required to complete the QTS studies module which is compulsory for achieving QTS and carries an additional 20 credit points. This module contributes to enabling trainees to meet the requirements for being recommended for the award of QTS. |
| 2.3 |
For further details on the modules see the Programme Specification. |
|
|
| 3. |
Progression |
| |
|
| 4. |
Assessment |
| |
| 4.1 |
Candidates will be assessed on the basis of coursework and the practice of education in placement schools. The double module assessment will be the equivalent to one 8000 word essay. The assessment of the QTS module will be based on successful completion of school placement and a portfolio of evidence against the QTS standards. All trainee teachers are required to pass skills tests in numeracy and literacy before they can be recommended for the award of Qualified Teacher Status (QTS). |
| 4.2 |
Students should refer to the BA QTS Assessment Policy and Guidance document for further details. |
| 4.3 |
Details of the process for submission of coursework can be found in the BA QTS Programme Handbook. |
| 4.4 |
If necessary, candidates are referred to the University’s regulations and procedures for review/appeals and complaints. |
|
|
| 5. |
Award of Qualification(s) |
| |
| 5.1 |
The Programmes follow the University Regulations for the Progression, Determination and Classification of Results specified in Section IV of the University Calendar. |
| 5.2 |
Recommendation of Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) will only be made to the relevant body if all modules are completed successfully, including the QTS Studies module. |
| 5.3 |
Candidates who are unsuccessful will have only one opportunity to be referred in the placement element of the QTS Studies module. Should the student be unsuccessful at referral, the degree award may be made without any recommendation for QTS, as long as all other requirements have been met. |
|
|
| 6. |
Placements/Study Abroad/Exchange/Fieldwork |
| |
| Candidates are required to complete a minimum of 120 days of school-based training throughout the two year programme. School-based training will range from one week blocks to six week blocks. |
|
| 7. |
Other |
| |
| 7.1 |
These regulations may be revised during the student's period of registration in accordance with the procedures approved by Senate. |
| 7.2 |
Students should comply with the University’s regulations on attendance. Attendance on the course is required for one full day and one evening per week with a further requirement to undertake school based training from between one and six weeks with individual days (serial days) spent in school. |
| 7.3 |
Candidates are required to attend all taught university sessions and complete the required number of placement days. |
|
|
