Masters Degrees (Alternative Education)

MA Education: Post-Compulsory education programme is an exciting opportunity to join other students in discussion and collaborative learning while being taught by a team which is highly skilled in supporting your needs.

Course detail

Our MA Education: Post-compulsory Education programme offers you the opportunity to learn about and develop your knowledge of current issues from a wide range of perspectives on education and to focus your study towards your particular interest in Post-compulsory Education.

The Year One modules introduce you to the skills you need for Master’s level study and you will develop in-depth knowledge of a range of approaches and methods through which education is investigated. In Year Two there is a choice to adopt a local, national or global perspective. You might choose to study global changes and effects on education or contemporary educational issues and changes at national level, or you might have a specific ‘local’ issue you want to study. This ‘local’ issue might be something relevant to you and your employer if you are employed in a work setting, or it might be some aspect of your special interest in Post-compulsory Education that you choose to examine in more depth. In Year Three you will study the Dissertation/Major Project and the focus for this study will be on Post-compulsory Education. You will have a specific tutor who will supervise this work.

Format

We have designed the MA programmes to support you to engage proactively in education from a theoretical or practical approach, or a combination of the two.

We include creative approaches to teaching, learning and assessment and you are supported by a team of tutors who are active researchers. We have designed the programme to enable you to study with others who are interested in a wide range of educational issues; for example people working in primary, secondary, post-compulsory or higher education; libraries and archive professionals; people working in museum education; people with mentor roles; Early Years teachers, play workers or Children’s Centre managers.

The course engages you with current issues and debates in education, enabling you to gain critical awareness and understanding and to develop new insights. You will engage in research and advanced scholarship in the discipline and will develop as a self-directed, independent learner who is able to deal with complex issues both systematically and creatively.

Modules

- Developing Criticality
- Methods of Enquiry
- Global Perspectives on Education
- Critical Contemporary Issues in Education in a National Context
- Local Independent Study/Project

Then either:

Dissertation: Post-compulsory Education

This module is the culmination of the MA Education. It engages students in a substantial piece of research focused on a topic that is relevant to an educational context and manageable within the time and credit constraints of a Master’s dissertation. The focus and nature of the investigation will be agreed with your supervisor for example it could be an investigation into the use of the ‘flipped classroom’ approach to teaching and learning in undergraduate study.

Major Project: Post-compulsory Education

This module is the culmination of the MA Education. It engages students in a substantial piece of research investigation and artefact development on a topic relevant to an educational context and manageable within the time and credit constraints of a Master’s dissertation. The focus, nature of the investigation and intended output will be negotiated and agreed with your supervisor. For example the written component could be an investigation into a self-review tool you have designed to support student self-assessment including a dissemination strategy you have developed, which may include a poster presenting your findings and good practice guidelines you have developed to enhance future practice in the setting.

How to apply

For information on how to apply, please see the following link:
https://www.yorksj.ac.uk/study/postgraduate/how-to-apply/

Other sources of funding

Information on alternative sources of funding can be found here:
https://www.yorksj.ac.uk/student-services/money/funding-my-course/postgraduate-/postgraduate-funding-/

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This programme leads to Qualified Teacher Status. It equips you to teach pupils from 5-11 years and covers all areas of the Key Stage 1 and 2 curriculum, through lectures, seminars, workshops and tutorials. You'll gain 60 Masters level credits and be awarded with a Post-Graduate Certificate of Education.

The programme will give you an in-depth understanding of inclusive practice, equality and diversity to prepare you for a career in London schools. As a part of the programme you will experience different schools and also have an opportunity to work in an Alternative Education Setting. At Masters level you'll have the opportunity to develop a specific area of expertise.

LSBU has a particular focus on social justice and equality that is well matched to the needs of schools in urban and multicultural areas. At LSBU we encourage creativity, reflective pedagogy and sensitivity to educational issues.

Bursaries

The Government provides the following bursaries to be off-set against tuition fees, via the Training Agency. Tuition fees need to be paid by all students direct to LSBU. Students can use any bursary they receive from the Training Agency for this purpose.

If you have a 1st Class Degree or a PhD you will be eligible for a bursary of £3,000

You do not need to apply for bursaries. Once you have firmly accepted an unconditional offer of a place on a Teacher Training course (and supplied proof of your degree grade) the University will liaise with the Department for Education to put your bursary in place.

Modules

H Level Modules:

Core curriculum
Professional studies
Foundation subjects
School experience
Alternative education setting

M Level Modules:
Equality, inclusion and citizenship

Plus one of the following module options:

SEND (Special Educational Needs and Disability)
Connect, consume, create: ICT in the Primary School
Performing Arts
Raising Achievement in Mathematics (RAiM)
English: Language, learning and culture

Teaching and learning

The university based sessions are taught through lectures, workshops, practical sessions, seminars and tutorials. The aim throughout is to encourage creativity, reflective pedagogy and sensitivity to educational issues, aims and objectives. We aim to provide a learning community that actively challenges inequality and injustice.

In particular, the module on Equality, Inclusion and Citizenship will allow you to reflect on key issues such as equality, diversity and sustainability in the educational context.

You will be encouraged to make links between the theoretical and practical elements of the course. We use an interactive model of teaching and learning and you will be encouraged to think critically about subjects to inform your understanding of effective methods of teaching and learning and how best to apply these in classroom situations.

Timetable

This is a full time course and you will be required to be present either in university or on school placement five days per week. University based sessions run from 9.00-4.30pm.

Days in school follow the school day timings of your particular placement school, as a guide this is usually from 8.30-4.30pm but individual schools may differ slightly.

Placements

During the course you will undertake placements in at least two schools. Placement schools are chosen to provide different experiences including size, organisation and location. Our partnership works with a wide range schools across London. Placements are allocated as best fit for each trainee, but if you live in outer London or beyond it may require careful planning by you so that you are able to work at assigned schools.

In addition you will undertake a placement in an alternative education setting. The choice of placement will depend on the option you choose and your interest in the education sector. Examples of placements include SEN schools, pupil referral units, hospitals, overseas etc.

A key element of the programme is to prepare you to work in multi-cultural, urban settings. In terms of school experience placements you will normally be required to do at least one practice in an inner or outer London state school.

Employability

Completion and employment rates for our PGCE are both above the sector norms and we have been identified as a good provider of initial teacher training (OFSTED 2014). Although we pride ourselves in providing teachers for London schools, successful students enter the teaching profession in a variety of schools/nurseries within the UK.

All students entering the course have the possibility of gaining up to 60 credits at Masters level, which can be used by students to count towards the award of full Masters qualifications (such as the LSBU MA in Education) gained via further study after graduation.

LSBU Employability Services

LSBU is committed to supporting you develop your employability and succeed in getting a job after you have graduated. Your qualification will certainly help, but in a competitive market you also need to work on your employability, and on your career search. Our Employability Service will support you in developing your skills, finding a job, interview techniques, work experience or an internship, and will help you assess what you need to do to get the job you want at the end of your course. LSBU offers a comprehensive Employability Service, with a range of initiatives to complement your studies, including:

• Direct engagement from employers who come in to interview and talk to students
• Job Shop and on-campus recruitment agencies to help your job search
• Mentoring and work shadowing schemes.

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The University of Brighton is one of the UK's largest teacher training universities, rated ‘outstanding’ in our last Ofsted inspection.

This course leads to the award of Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) for the 11–16 age range which enables you to be employed as a qualified teacher in secondary schools in England and Wales. The course also offers enrichment opportunities to teach the 16–18 age phase.

You'll experience practical and theoretical modules that are based upon research-informed practice by the route leader, Dr Gary Stidder, who is an established academic and active researcher in the field of physical education.

Our course focuses on an alternative approach to teaching physical education, emphasising physical activities and non-traditional team games alongside the usual competitive team games. It also includes lifestyle activities that have a wide appeal to a broad population of pupils.

You will have access to excellent resources and gain 120 days of practical experience in two of around 250 schools with whom we have partnerships.

Course structure

All teaching takes place at the School of Sport and Service Management, based in Eastbourne, where there are extensive sports facilities such as six badminton court-sized sports halls, two gymnasiums, plus a fitness suite, Astro turf pitch and swimming pool.

When studying with us at the university, you’ll experience and learn how to teach practical physical education through The A-list of physical activities. These include physical activities considered to be less conventional compared to more established types of activities. The A-list includes the following non-conventional physical activities:

Alternative
Adapted
Artistic
Aesthetic
Aquatic
Athletic
Adventurous
Aerobic
Anaerobic

Please visit the website to find out more about the course structure:
https://www.brighton.ac.uk/courses/study/secondary-physical-education-pgce.aspx

Areas of study

This course covers the national curriculum range of content for physical education.

The course also includes health-related exercise, the use of new and emerging technologies in physical education, thematic teaching and learning in physical education, inclusive practice in physical education and the teaching of accredited courses in physical education.

There are four strands to this course: subject study/subject education, education studies, school placements and professional development.

Course content is kept up to date with changes in local and national initiatives and legislation, so you can be confident that your working knowledge is based on current theory and practice.

The education studies strand gives you a thorough understanding of the learning process itself, including an appreciation of individual differences. The study of the principles and practices of learning and teaching is through both school and university settings, allowing you to develop practical competency supported by analytical skills. By the end of the course you will:

• refine your understanding of pedagogy, including an appreciation of current and emerging educational theories and debate
• understand how to use and adapt teaching, learning, management and assessment strategies in order to meet the varying needs of learners
• understand how the progress and wellbeing of learners is affected by different influences and know how to take account of the principles of equality, inclusion and diversity.

The subject study/subject education strand builds upon your existing expertise in your specialist subject and provides you with the opportunity to develop skills, knowledge and understanding of the subject in the secondary school context. You will consider the learning and teaching strategies that are relevant to physical educaiton.

The subject education module is specifically related to teaching PE in school, while the subject study module enables you to take your subject specialist studies to an increased depth. You can earn 20 masters-level credits through the assessment for the subject study module.

Professional development is linked to all strands of the programme and is designed to enable you to evaluate critically and reflect on your learning to make improvements. You will be expected to gather and justify evidence of your achievements on a regular basis and develop and implement improvement plans.

Students use an e-portfolio to record their achievements and this is reviewed throughout the course. An action plan is used to support professional development during placements and makes up a significant part of the improvement planning process.

At the end of the course, the e-portfolio provides evidence that you have met the Teachers’ Standards for the award of Qualified Teacher Status.

Placements

Ofsted identify our approach to training in schools as a key strength of this course, with an excellent balance between university tuition and school-based training.

You will spend a minimum of 120 days on school-based activities, with your training shared between the university and the partner school.

Your school-based training will include observing teachers, working with individual pupils and groups of pupils, team teaching and independent teaching. Your training will also entail completing specific subject tasks and developing your knowledge of school policy and effective practices.

You will maintain a professional training portfolio and be supported to review your work critically and analytically as well as to set appropriately challenging targets. We will also develop an action plan with you to identify strengths, development needs and actions, so that your practice is continually developing. Please visit the website to find out more about the placements:

https://www.brighton.ac.uk/courses/study/secondary-physical-education-pgce.aspx

School Direct

School Direct is an alternative route to Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) and the University of Brighton is working with a number of schools to deliver this programme across a range of secondary subjects as well as in the primary phase.

To train as a teacher through the School Direct programme you need to apply directly to a school for a School Direct training place, with schools advertising their vacancies on the UCAS Teacher Training website. The University of Brighton supports School Direct through providing training and assessment opportunities at the request of participating schools.

Please follow the link below to find out more about School Direct and view vacancies:

https://www.brighton.ac.uk/courses/study/School-Direct-Tuition-and-School-Direct-Salaried.aspx

Careers and employability

Graduates of the course are equipped with the skills and knowledge to become confident and competent secondary-school teachers.

As well as gaining a PGCE, you will be assessed against the national Teachers’ Standards in order to be recommended for the award of Qualified Teacher Status.

Most students gain employment in schools across the UK very soon after they have completed the course and achieved the teaching qualifications. Many former students have subsequently become curriculum leaders and senior managers in schools.

Students on this course can choose to progress to one of our Education MAs after completing the PGCE.

If you are considering whether a career in teaching is for you, and you are a UK resident, the Department for Education’s School Experience Programme (SEP) offers 1 to 10 days’ classroom experience in a secondary school. For details, please check: http://www.education.gov.uk/get-into-teaching/school-experience.aspx

The teachers we train are:

• highly committed to their pupils’ learning and ambitious in what they want to help them achieve
• inquisitive, critically reflective and motivated to keep learning and improving their own practice
• quick to adapt to different learning contexts and confident to challenge inequalities
• an asset to the profession, willing to share their knowledge and experience and to collaborate with others
• well-prepared for the realities of teaching, with the confidence, resilience and skills to be innovative, to take risks and be creative.

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The Government has targeted the presence of a Physical Education specialist in every primary school as part of a drive to increase healthy life styles.

The PGCE Primary Physical Education Specialist with QTS is a school-led programme which combines on-campus study with training in placement schools and settings.

You will train to teach across the 5-11 age range in Key Stages 1 and 2 and achieve the Teachers’ Standards. The training experience is designed to fully prepare you for your first year as a Newly Qualified Teacher (NQT).

During the programme, you will study all of the National Curriculum subjects and you will specialise in Physical Education in great depth. You will qualify as a Primary teacher who will also be able to bring a passion for Physical Education and excellent Physical Education subject knowledge to a first teaching post.

Successful completion of this PGCE will lay the foundations for you to become a leader in Physical Education, generating enthusiasm for Physical Education amongst children, and modelling and leading others in the development of enriching, engaging and challenging lessons.

What will I study?

The programme consists of four main elements.

- Academic and Professional Development – gaining knowledge of how children learn and how their needs differ, you will develop the core skills of planning, assessment, teaching and classroom management. You will also gain an understanding of the education system, consider the wider professional role of a teacher, and learn how to reflect upon and take responsibility for your professional development;

- Curriculum Subject Knowledge – working with expert tutors, you will acquire essential subject knowledge for the Primary National Curriculum. Exploring a range of teaching methods, including the use of ‘new’ technologies, you will be guided in how to provide children with stimulating, imaginative and effective learning experiences;

- Specialism – choosing Physical Education as your specialism will allow you to enhance and deepen your own knowledge of the subject, undertake action research projects in school, and further your knowledge and understanding of how Physical Education is taught and led in school. You will also develop a clear understanding of the needs of children who do not always have the love of physical education you may have, gaining an understanding of how to teach them effectively and give them the confidence to progress;

- Weekend Conferences – six weekend conferences provide an opportunity for deeper study of aspects of Primary Physical Education, including international and historical perspectives and research from the forefront of the subject.

How will I study?

A combination of seminars, tutorials and weekend conferences, together with practical, work-based learning in the classroom will give you the knowledge and skills you need to become an excellent teacher. A substantial amount of face-to-face contact time with specialist tutors will be facilitated across all Primary National Curriculum subjects. You will be supported by online and distance learning materials and encouraged to develop key skills, including the use of technology, to support your own learning.

You will also spend a significant amount of time in schools in a variety of Key Stage 1 and Key Stage 2 classes during the programme. Over the length of the PGCE, you will progress from teaching small groups with a partner to teaching a full class on your own as you become more confident in the classroom. There are also frequent opportunities to observe outstanding teachers in action and learn from high quality training in schools.

Undertaking a range of differentiated training experiences that are closely linked to your individual targets, you will develop your role as a classroom teacher and assume greater responsibility for the class as you move through the programme.

How will I be assessed?

A balanced combination of coursework and observed classroom experience will be assessed against the Teachers’ Standards. You will also complete rigorous subject knowledge audits and checks to ensure you have outstanding subject knowledge.

Who will be teaching me?

You will be taught by expert practitioners including teachers who are specialists in Physical Education and primary education and who will model high quality practice to enable you to develop your own teaching style.

What are my career prospects?

Successful completion of this programme will allow you to gain a recommendation for QTS and progress into employment as a Newly Qualified Teacher in a primary school.

Our graduates obtain work in schools across the UK and abroad and we offer excellent support to help you gain your first teaching post. You will have an ability to teach in Key Stage 1 or Key Stage 2 in primary schools, a strong knowledge of primary education, excellent Physical Education subject knowledge and pedagogy, as well as outstanding classroom skills, so that you meet and exceed the national standards for Qualified Teacher Status.

You will also have a thorough understanding of how to teach the primary curriculum in creative ways that excite and stimulate children whilst ensuring that they make good progress. In addition, you will have a deep knowledge of Physical Education and be well placed to take a leadership role in school. Skills in monitoring and managing your own development, together with an ability to reflect on alternative approaches to education, will help you to make your own informed choices and aid your career progression.

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The postgraduate Outdoor Education programme has been developed to meet the needs of practitioners and graduates working in outdoor education. It brings together in depth theoretical study and professional practice to develop a higher level understanding of outdoor education as a distinctively alternative form of learning. Central to the course is a belief in outdoor education as a process of experiential and holistic learning that can help individuals to better understand their personal values, relationships with others and the natural world.

Course Overview

The postgraduate Outdoor Education programme has been developed to meet the needs of practitioners and graduates working in outdoor education. It brings together in-depth theoretical study and professional practice to develop a higher level understanding of outdoor education as a distinctively alternative form of learning. Central to the course is a belief in outdoor education as a process of experiential and holistic learning that can help individuals to better understand their personal values, relationships with others and the natural world. The course explores Outdoor Education from a socio-educational perspective and addresses key issues linking individual practice to national and international concerns such as sustainability, the nature of adventure, formalising the informal, professionalism, facilitating experiential learning, relationships with nature and healthy outdoor communities.

Modules

Part One
-Philosophical and Cultural Perspectives on Outdoor Education
-Facilitating Learning through Experience
-Debates in Outdoor Education
-Research Methods OR Outdoor Education Internship (subject to approval of Programme Director)

Part Two
-Dissertation (60 credits)

Key Features

-Part time and full time modes of study
-Blended learning approach combining use of eplatforms, course materials and weekend workshops
-All workshop weekends are located at Carmarthen Campus and make use of the surrounding hills, forests, rivers and coastline.
-Supportive community of postgraduate scholars
-Taught modules to support student’s professional practice
-Assessment tasks linked to individual’s professional interests
-Optional exit awards – PG Certificate (60 credits), PG Diploma (120 credits) and Master of Arts (180 credits)

Assessment

The programme uses a range of assessment techniques designed to develop postgraduate level knowledge, skills and competencies. These include: seminar and lead lecture presentations, research proposals, research reports, essays, reflective journals, academic interviews and blogs.

All assessments link theory with practice and require students to undertake empirical research as the basis for further developing their critical skills and an evidence-based personal philosophy of Outdoor Education.

Career Opportunities

The degree would be of particular interest to outdoor professionals who are:
-Seeking career advancement as teachers, centre managers, youth workers, community development officers, environmental education officers, adventure guides, outdoor instructors and graduate students.
-Wishing to undertake Continuing Professional development
-Considering further study at PhD level

It will be of particular interest to outdoor professionals who are:
-Inquisitive & critical in their outlook
-Inspired by the potential of Outdoor Education to offer an alternative approach to learning & teaching
-Motivated to challenge their own beliefs and learn from other cultures

Professional Accreditations

-Demonstrate effective communication and presentation skills
-Work effectively, both independently and with others
-Demonstrate responsibility for their learning and continuing personal and professional development
-Self-appraise and reflect on their practice
-Use information and communication technology (ICT), including word processing, databases, internet communication, information retrieval and online searches
-Interpret and present relevant numerical information
-Develop an adaptable and flexible approach to study and work

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The Mathematics Education MA is for teachers, tutors and others interested in how mathematics is taught and learnt. The programme gives students the opportunity to explore issues in mathematics teaching, to consider the theoretical underpinnings, and to carry out a rigorous study of mathematical learning.

Degree information

In the two core modules students consider research-based developments in mathematics teaching and their related sociological, psychological, curricular and linguistic issues, and they engage with mathematics itself, finding implications for teaching. Optional modules and the independent dissertation/report explore learning with digital technologies, study the wider values and practices of education, and allow teachers to develop and critique their own practice.

Students undertake modules to the value of 180 credits.

The Mathematics Education MA consists of two core modules (60 credits), two optional modules (60 credits) and a dissertation (60 credits) or report (30 credits). A Postgraduate Diploma, two core modules (60 credits), two optional modules (60 credits), full-time nine months or flexible study up to five years, is offered. A Postgraduate Certificate, two optional modules (60 credits),flexible study over a period of up to two years, is offered.

Core modules
-Understanding Mathematics Education
-Mathematics for Teachers

The module A level Mathematics Pedagogy is not scheduled to run in 2017-18, but is an allowed alternative core module, replacing Mathematics for Teachers.

Optional modules
-Digital Technologies for Mathematical Learning
-What is Education?

Dissertation/report
All students undertake an independent research project which culminates in a 17,000-word dissertation or 8,000-word report.

Teaching and learning
Teaching varies according to the modules and includes face-to-face seminars and discussions of reading, mathematical workshops, student presentations, as well as online interactions. Only one module, Digital Technologies in Mathematical Learning, can be studied at a distance.

Careers

Graduates of this programme are currently working across a broad range of areas. Some are working as secondary school heads of mathematics, while others have jobs as primary school mathematics leads. Graduates can also be found working as head teachers and mathematics education lecturers.

Top career destinations for this degree:
-Independent School Teacher, Girls Day School Trust (GDST)
-Maths Tutor, Elm Court School
-Secondary School Teacher (Maths and Assistant Head of Year), Acland Burghley School
-Secondary School Teacher (Maths), Park View
-Primary Teaching (School Direct), Institute of Education, University of London (IOE)

Employability
For most teachers, the Mathematics Education MA enhances their satisfaction in teaching and adds a thoughtful critique that balances the pressures of teaching. It develops skills in mathematics, pedagogy, research methods and writing. This programme is a vital stepping stone to a higher degree in mathematics education and a post in teacher education or education research. For non-teachers, this programme develops transferable skills of writing, critical analysis and understanding of how a mathematical perspective differs from other forms of reasoning.

Why study this degree at UCL?

The Curriculum, Pedagogy and Assessment Department at UCL Institute of Education is a world-leading centre for geography, business, mathematics, history, religious education, citizenship and science education. Students will work with tutors who are at the forefront of mathematics education research and who are directly involved in some of these developments.

The department provides an impressive range of cutting-edge MA and CPD courses, presented in face-to-face, distance learning or mixed mode formats. In addition we offer a first class PhD programme and staff are actively involved in an extensive range of innovative, nationally and internationally acclaimed, research and development projects.

The department's student population is very diverse: students on initial teacher education courses, practising teachers, and a rich and diverse range of international students.

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The MA in Education (Academic Practice) pathway encourages and supports rigorous and critical professional development, which aims to have significant impact on student outcomes.

It enables staff to pursue their scholarly and research interests in Higher Education (HE) pedagogy, whilst retaining a practical focus, with modules on curriculum development, academic leadership and the wider context of higher education in society.

The MA in Education (Academic Practice) pathway is one pathway within an MA Education programme that has been specifically designed for education professionals from a wide range of settings and phases. Students will benefit from interaction with the postgraduate community, with opportunities to attend conferences, study days, lectures and seminars on campus and at other locations.

Visit the website: https://www.canterbury.ac.uk/study-here/courses/postgraduate/education-academic-practice.aspx

Course detail

The pathway has three stages.

Stage 1: you will import 60 credits from your Postgraduate Certificate in Academic Practice (or equivalent qualification).

Stage 2: three compulsory 20-credit modules, which you will normally study in your first year of registration. You will study areas that are essential to successful academic practice, from the student perspective and in terms of your own career. This will normally include aspects of curriculum design, leadership and change management, in the context of the changing nature of higher education in the UK.

Stage 3: you will attend research methods training and write your 60-credit dissertation, which will explore an area of your higher education professional practice using an appropriate educational research method. You will normally complete Stage 3 in your second year of registration.

Suitability

The pathway will be of interest to all staff wishing to:
• Enhance their teaching practice;
• Further develop their academic career;
• Deepen their scholarly understanding of higher education pedagogy.

It may be of particular interest to academic staff who do not have a Master’s degree, or would like a practice-related Master’s degree in addition to an academic subject-based qualification they may already hold.

It will also be of interest to academic staff who are considering undertaking a research degree with a focus on higher education pedagogy.

Throughout the modules, reference will be made to the UK Professional Standards Framework and how this might be engaged with in order to address the descriptor statements for gaining either Senior or Principal Fellow status with the Higher Education Academy.

Format

The course is normally delivered through group seminars and lectures, one-to-one tutorials, workshops and activities, enquiry and guided independent study. Online resources and facilities are available through the virtual learning environment. You will have full access to the University’s online resources and e-library as well as facilities on campus.

As well as taught sessions and workshops, there is personalised tutorial support, with writing days and postgraduate conferences to support your development and scholarship, organised within the wider MA in Education courses. Members of the postgraduate community meet for conferences and study weekends at various times during the year to provide peer support.

Assessment

In Stage 2, assessment is normally through a 4,000-word assignment per 20-credit module. The assignments are varied and flexible in nature and are designed to maximise the potential to examine, explore and enhance the participant’s existing professional practice, particularly in seeking to integrate the different aspects of academic practice.

In Stage 3, your 60-credit dissertation will explore an area of your higher education professional practice using an appropriate educational research method. The dissertation will be supervised by a suitably qualified member of academic staff at the University.

What can I do next?

The course is studied alongside your full-time or part-time employment.

It is intended that successful completion of the pathway will equip you with the skills and knowledge to enhance your teaching and improve student outcomes. It is intended that your promotion prospects will be enhanced not only by the Master’s qualification itself, but also by your enhanced ability to understand and discuss contemporary issues in higher education, to lead and implement change and by your increased participation in research.

Within the wider MA Education community, we have a wide network of alumni who may continue with postgraduate study on our popular EdD programme or a PhD, contribute to Master’s programmes as associate staff and offer expert support to colleagues engaging in Master’s study and research

How to apply

For information on how to apply, please follow this link: https://www.canterbury.ac.uk/study-here/how-to-apply/how-to-apply.aspx

Funding

-Masters Loans-

From 2016/17 government loans of up to £10,000 are available for postgraduate Masters study. The loans will be paid directly to students by the Student Loans Company and will be subject to both personal and course eligibility criteria.

For more information available here: https://www.canterbury.ac.uk/study-here/funding-your-degree/funding-your-postgraduate-degree.aspx

-2017/18 Entry Financial Support-

Information on alternative funding sources is available here: https://www.canterbury.ac.uk/study-here/funding-your-degree/2017-18-entry-financial-support.aspx

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This is a flexible course for those interested in, or already working in, the further education and skills sector. Teachers working in further and adult education, schools, private and voluntary training providers can access a range of courses to meet their needs, whether they are new or existing professionals.

You can choose to take an initial Award (20 credits level 4), a Certificate (40 credits level 4) or Diploma course (120 credits level 4&5) or Professional Graduate Certificate in Education (ProfGCE level 6) or any of these courses with a specialism in English or Mathematics or Teaching Learners with Special Needs.

Visit the website: https://www.canterbury.ac.uk/study-here/postgraduate-taught/postgraduate-taught-courses.aspx

Course detail

AWARD IN EDUCATION AND TRAINING

For those interested in a teaching career in further and/or adult and community education and trainers in the public and private sector. You do not have to be in a teaching role to undertake the course. The short course consists of one module of 20 credits at level 4, and you may use this short course as credit should you decide to join the Diploma course at a later stage.

Duration: short course, variable to suit partner colleges but usually three hours per week over one term.

CERTIFICATE IN EDUCATION AND TRAINING

For teachers undertaking a more limited teaching role in any of the further education and skills sector institutions. The short course consists of two x 20 credit modules at level 4 and you may use this short course as credit should you decide to join the Diploma course at a later stage

Duration: short course, variable to suit partner colleges but usually three hours per week over two or three terms.

DIPLOMA/ProfGCE IN EDUCATION AND TRAINING

Designed to meet the needs of teachers in a substantial role in further and/or adult and community education, trainers in the public and private sector as well as those working with 14­19 year olds in schools, academies and vocational settings.

The course consists of six modules taken over two years or a one year fast track option is available at one of our partner colleges. Successful completion allows you to apply for Qualified Teacher Learning and Skills (QTLS) status.

Duration: modular over one year full­time with six hours per week tuition in class or two years part­time usually three hours per week tuition in class; plus self-study time and teaching time.

SPECIALIST PATHWAYS IN ENGLISH, MATHEMATICS AND TEACHING LEARNERS WITH SPECIAL NEEDS

For teachers of English (ESOL, literacy, functional skills) or maths (numeracy, functional skills) or working with learners with special needs, the Diploma, ProfGCE, Certificate and Award can also be taken as subject specialist qualifications.

To join the pathway qualification in the Certificate or Diploma, you need to have 50% of your teaching in the specific subject specialism. You will attend two modules in a subject specialist group at one of our partner colleges and benefit from working with subject specialists as well as learning about specific pedagogy for your subject.

QUALIFIED TEACHER STATUS LEARNING AND SKILLS

These teaching qualifications do not automatically confer ‘Qualified Teacher Learning and Skills’ (QTLS), so you will need to apply for this status post qualification. The process is currently under review so please check the Education and Training Foundation (ETF) website for current guidance.

Suitability

This is a course for those interested in, or already working in, the further education and skills sector. Teachers working in further and adult education, schools, public or private training organisations.

You will need to be in a paid or voluntary teaching role to undertake all except the initial Award in Education and Training which is for those who wish to get into teaching but currently have little or no teaching.

Content

-Award-

• Module 1 Introduction to Teaching and Learning

-Certificate-

As above, plus:
• Module 2 Planning and Assessing
• Module 3 Applying Theory to Practice

-Diploma and ProfGCE-

As above, plus:
• Module 4 Reflecting on Practice
• Module 5 Curriculum
• Module 6 Professional Practice

Format

You will be given access to a wide range of learning and teaching strategies. Modules may include seminars, lectures and group discussions and projects, with many utilising individual and peer presentation format.

Given that the course is primarily for staff already working in the further education and skills sector, maximum use of student experience and expertise is made, including student led sessions aimed at sharing examples of good practice with colleagues.

Modules include self-directed study activities, investigations and e-­based learning.

You will be required to have a minimum of 100 hours teaching for the Diploma/ProfGCE.

For the Diploma/PGCE students are required to undertake eight teaching observations. These provide the opportunity for you to apply your knowledge and understanding, to improve subject specialist teaching and to receive practical advice.

Assessment

Assessments for each module are based on observations of teaching practice, individual reflections, entries in a progress log and academic essays/assignments.

What can I do next?

If you are appropriately qualified, on successful completion of the Diploma in Education and Training you can apply for a place on the BA (Hons) Education and Professional Training.

How to apply

For information on how to apply, please follow this link: https://www.canterbury.ac.uk/study-here/how-to-apply/how-to-apply.aspx

Funding

-Masters Loans-

From 2016/17 government loans of up to £10,000 are available for postgraduate Masters study. The loans will be paid directly to students by the Student Loans Company and will be subject to both personal and course eligibility criteria.

For more information available here: https://www.canterbury.ac.uk/study-here/funding-your-degree/funding-your-postgraduate-degree.aspx

-2017/18 Entry Financial Support-

Information on alternative funding sources is available here: https://www.canterbury.ac.uk/study-here/funding-your-degree/2017-18-entry-financial-support.aspx

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The MA Education programme is aimed at educators and education professionals who want to gain additional knowledge and skills to help improve their practice through a general, rather than specialised, programme of master's level study. It draws upon the expertise across the School of Education giving candidates access to the knowledge and experience of leading researchers across a diverse range of topics. Thus, you will be in a great position to pursue your interests and focus on the topics that suit your career ambitions.

MA Education is unique in the School of Education insofar as there are no modules dedicated to, or associated with, the programme; instead, you select modules that interest you from the other specialised MA programmes offered. These may be modules that explore different aspects of educational leadership, the use of technology to support learning, child development, or teaching English to speakers of other languages among others.

With your own experience of working in an education context, the teaching sessions and our excellent library resources you will soon build your knowledge of educational research methods and apply them to your own dissertation on a related topic. You will also improve your skills in written and oral communication, research and analysis, and leadership: all vital qualities for a career in any sector of education.

This flexible programme may also be studied part-time, but it is important to emphasise that we offer no special provision for part-time students. Teaching sessions and meetings generally occur during the working day so, if you are considering applying for part-time status, you must ensure that you are able to attend at these times.

Course content

You’ll take a core module that explores the principles and methods of educational research, and introduces you to issues such as research ethics and the use of research to improve educational practice for individuals and organisations. You’ll also study two of three additional modules on research methods to expand and sharpen your skills.

You’ll apply your new understanding of the concepts and benefits of educational research to your own dissertation, in preparation for which you'll consult regularly with your appointed supervisor as you independently research an educational topic that may or may not be related to your own practice. We can only accept you onto the programme if, at the application stage, you propose a dissertation on a topic or issue that matches the available supervisory expertise within the School of Education.

Course structure

There are two compulsory modules on this programme. You have to study and pass at least two of the three optional research methods modules, and you’ll normally take two or three from the full range of other optional modules available. Some modules are only available in alternate years. You must select modules that represent a general and balanced programme of study, rather than a specialised one. You will not be permitted to follow modules from one MA programme only, or to focus on one narrow subject or topic, since this will result in a specialised course of study rather than the general one that the MA Education is intended to provide.

Compulsory modules

• Getting Started: Research Questions and Approaches in Education 15 credits
• Dissertation 60 credits

Optional modules

• Global Learning in UK Primary Schools 30 credits
• Critical Perspectives on Leadership Theory and Practice 30 credits
• Philosophical underpinning of educational research 15 credits
• Digital Learning in Practice 30 credits
• Special Educational Needs: Inclusive Approaches 30 credits
• Developmental Disorders I: Dyslexia and Developmental Coordination Disorder 30 credits
• Theorizing Childhood and Youth 30 credits
• Children and young people: citizenship, participation and social justice 30 credits
• Grammar, Learning and Teaching 15 credits
• Teacher Education for TESOL 15 credits

For more information on typical modules, read Education MA in the course catalogue

Learning and teaching

We use a variety of teaching and learning methods including weekly seminars, group learning, tutorials, fieldwork, online learning and lectures. The methods of teaching and learning that you will encounter depend on which specific modules you choose. Independent study is also vital, as it allows you to pursue your interests and develop high-level skills.

Assessment

Most assessment is by written essay. Occasionally, we use other assessment approaches, such as poster presentations or reflective logs.

Career opportunities

This programme has been designed to meet the needs of candidates who plan to use the knowledge and skills they will gain in a wide range of careers in education and related sectors. You will develop your skills in research and analysis, and the insights gained from your studies will help to inform your professional practice. If you are already established in the field of teaching or a career in education, developing your skills in educational research and analysis can lead to early promotion. Many of our students receive sponsorship and support from their employers or governments as part of their continued professional development. MA Education also provides a pathway, for students who achieve at least a merit, for further study and research at doctoral level, either a PhD or the EdD.

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MA Education: Mentoring offers the opportunity to learn about and develop knowledge of current issues from a wide range of perspectives on education and focus your study towards your particular interest in Mentoring.

Course detail

Our MA Education: Mentoring programme offers you the opportunity to learn about and develop your knowledge of current issues from a wide range of perspectives on education and to focus your study towards your particular interest in Mentoring.

The Year One modules introduce the skills you need for Master’s level study and you will develop in-depth knowledge of a range of approaches and methods through which education is investigated. In Year Two there is a choice to adopt a local, national or global perspective. You might choose to study global changes and effects on education or contemporary educational issues and changes at national level, or you might have a specific ‘local’ issue you want to study. This ‘local’ issue might be something relevant to you and your employer if you are employed in a work setting, or it might be some aspect of your special interest in Mentoring that you choose to examine in more depth. In Year Three you will study the Dissertation/Major Project and the focus for this study will be on Mentoring. You will have a specific tutor who will supervise this work.

Format

We have designed the MA programmes to support you to engage proactively in education from a theoretical or practical approach, or a combination of the two.

We include creative approaches to teaching, learning and assessment and you are supported by a team of tutors who are active researchers. We have designed the programme to enable you to study with others who are interested in a wide range of educational issues; for example people working in primary, secondary, post-compulsory or higher education; libraries and archive professionals; people working in museum education; people with mentor roles; Early Years teachers, play workers or Children’s Centre managers.

The course engages you with current issues and debates in education, enabling you to gain critical awareness and understanding and to develop new insights. You will engage in research and advanced scholarship in the discipline and will develop as a self-directed, independent learner who is able to deal with complex issues both systematically and creatively.

Modules

- Developing Criticality
- Methods of Enquiry
- Global Perspectives on Education
- Critical Contemporary Issues in Education in a National Context
- Local Independent Study/Project

In the third and final year of part-time study you will study either the Dissertation or Major Project:

Dissertation: Mentoring

This module is the culmination of the MA Education. It engages students in a substantial piece of research focused on a topic that is relevant to an educational context and manageable within the time and credit constraints of a Master’s dissertation. The focus and nature of the investigation will be agreed with your supervisor; for example it could be an investigation into developing the role of the learning mentor or an investigation into mentor support strategies for NQTs or the development of peer buddies in the playground.

Major Project: Mentoring

This module is the culmination of the MA Education. It engages students in a substantial piece of research investigation and artefact development on a topic relevant to an educational context and manageable within the time and credit constraints of a Master’s dissertation. The focus, nature of the investigation and intended output will be negotiated and agreed with your supervisor for example the written component could be an investigation into mentees perceptions of mentor support, together with artefacts including a dissemination strategy you have developed which may include a booklet and good practice guidelines for the setting.

How to apply

For information on how to apply, please see the following link:
https://www.yorksj.ac.uk/study/postgraduate/how-to-apply/

Other sources of funding

Information on alternative sources of funding can be found here:
https://www.yorksj.ac.uk/student-services/money/funding-my-course/postgraduate-/postgraduate-funding-/

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As education becomes increasingly globalised, schools and education systems around the world are being shaped and reshaped by what are often a common set of global education policies and ideologies.

The aim of our MSc in Education, Policy & Society is to help you develop your ability to critically analyse these dominant educational ideologies, policies and practices; to understand the forces that are driving them, their shortcomings and likely outcomes; and most importantly, to discover and engage with alternative models of education, training, teaching and learning, at the early childhood, primary, secondary and post-secondary levels, and in non-formal and informal contexts outside the formal education system altogether.

This course is designed for all students wanting to develop their capacity to critically analyse educational practice, policy and ideology, to develop a more clear “big picture” understanding of the broader structures and forces that are affecting schools, universities and education systems today, and to find out about and deepen their understanding of alternative ways of thinking about and doing education.

This may include those who have recently completed undergraduate courses of study, as well as individuals currently working as practitioners, whether in schools, colleges or universities, youth or community groups, international development organisations, workforce and skills development programmes, or in different levels of government.

Distinctive features

This course has been designed to be of value and relevance to students both from the UK and overseas; so interested individuals from all nations are encouraged to apply.

The programme is unique in that it is one of the few Master’s level courses focusing on education in the UK, or anywhere else in the world, that is offered by an interdisciplinary School of Social Sciences. As such, the approach to education offered here is shaped by a strong belief in the value of interdisciplinary social science theory and research for enhancing our collective ability to re-think, re-imagine and enhance educational practices, policies and principles, whether at the local, national or global level.

Structure

The course can be completed in one year with full-time study or in two years by part-time study.

You will be expected to attend lectures, seminars and tutorials as set out in the timetable for MSc students.  These sometimes sit outside the regular pattern of university attendance and may include day, evening and weekend study and on occasion may fall outside the standard semester dates.  You will also be expected to undertake independent study in preparation for lectures, seminars and assessments. 

The course is organised around a sequence of up to three 20 credit specialist modules in education, two 30 credit modules in social science theory and research methods, and one 60 credit supervised dissertation on an educational topic of your choice.

A 20 credit module comprises 200 hours of study, including about 30 hours of contact time, and the MSc as a whole, 1800 hours of study.

For a list of modules for the FULL-TIME route, please see website:

http://www.cardiff.ac.uk/study/postgraduate/taught/courses/course/education,-policy-and-society-msc

For a list of the modules for the PART-TIME route, please see website:

http://www.cardiff.ac.uk/study/postgraduate/taught/courses/course/education,-policy-and-society-msc-part-time

Teaching

Modules employ a diverse range of teaching including lectures, seminars, group and individual tutorials, and independent guided study. All modules within the programme make use of Cardiff University’s Virtual Learning Environment (VLE) Learning Central, on which you will find course materials, links to related materials and information on assessment.

The programme benefits from being located in an inter-disciplinary environment so that in parts of the course, you will come into contact with staff and students from other subject areas and, in other parts of the course, with staff and students in the same substantive area.

Assessment

Modules are assessed by a combination of essays, reports, reviews and presentations.

Career Prospects

The course may appeal to those who have recently completed undergraduate courses of study, as well as individuals currently working as practitioners, whether in schools, colleges or universities, youth or community groups, international development organisations, workforce and skills development programmes, or in different levels of government.

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The MA enables the you to make a distinctive contribution to higher education careers work through independent research. It is approved by the Association of Graduate Careers Advisory Services (AGCAS) and designed and taught in partnership with this professional body. It is also approved by the Career Development Institute (CDI) as meeting the qualification requirement for the UK Register of Career Development Professionals.

Areas of Study

There are two pathways available within the MA in Career Education, Information and Guidance in Higher Education: Route A and Route B. It is not necessary to finalise preferred route at the time of application as this can be confirmed later. Both pathways enable direct entry to the MA.

Route A
Route A includes the 3 x core 20 credit modules (including the Research Project module), a choice of 3 x 20 credit optional modules from the table below and a 60 credit module completed via a 15,000 word Dissertation (A). All participants start with the core modules: Career Development Theories and the next available Challenges of Careers Work in Higher Education module. These modules run twice a year (key dates) and further details are available in AGCAS events calendar).

Route B
Route B includes the 3 x core 20 credit modules detailed below (including the Research Project module), a choice of 1 x 20 credit module, and a 100 credit module completed via a 25,000 word Dissertation (B). This route is particularly suitable if you have a relevant prior qualification and experience.

Support and supervision

There is significant support available through the extended course team consisting of Phil McCash (Warwick), Gill Frigerio (Warwick), Sharon West (Warwick), Linda Byrne (AGCAS), Jan Cornish (AGCAS) and a large group of highly experienced AGCAS Trainers and Mentors. Dissertation students are allocated a dissertation supervisor. Supervision is provided to assist you with undertaking an initial literature review, constructing research questions and designing a methodology. There is considerable experience available within the course team and most topics connected with higher education careers work can be pursued.

Overseas applicants

Part-time international and EU applicants are welcomed. We have received successful applications from a range of countries including the UK, Ireland, Norway, France, Germany, Romania, Slovenia, USA, China and Australia. Full-time applicants are advised to consider our MA Career Development and Coaching Studies (PL 561).

HECSU Bursary

The Higher Education Careers Services Unit (HECSU) provides the HECSU Training Bursary Scheme to support participants on this joint AGCAS and University of Warwick course.

Progression

Former students have gone on to publish and disseminate their work in a range of academic and professional contexts. Our graduates occupy a range of roles in higher education careers work including management, education and career coaching. PhD opportunities are available at Warwick within the Centre for Lifelong Learning and the Warwick Institute for Employment Research.

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The PGCE Early Childhood Education with recommendation for Early Years Teacher Status is funded by the National College for Teaching and Leadership (NCTL) for the Initial Teacher Training for specialist early years teachers (birth to five years).

Visit the website: https://www.canterbury.ac.uk/study-here/courses/postgraduate/early-childhood-education-with-early-years-teacher-status.aspx

Course detail

There are two routes for this course. The Graduate Entry (Mainstream) and the Graduate Entry (Employment Based).

The Graduate Entry (Mainstream) is a twelve month, full-time course suitable for high calibre graduates who have limited experience of working with children from birth to five, but who are looking to pursue a career working in early years.

On this pathway you will work for some periods of the week in a minimum of two placements, undertake a number of PGCE modules and attend Early Years Teacher Status professional study days.

The Graduate Entry (Employment Based) pathway is suitable for graduates working in an early years setting or who require training and further experience to demonstrate the Teachers’ Standards (Early Years), or for newly recruited graduates in an early years setting who need to undertake early years ITT through an employment based route.

Suitability

This postgraduate route into teaching is a credible career choice for students wishing to pursue specialisation and expertise as a teacher with children from birth to five years.

Content

All PGCE pathways cover three main areas: Curriculum Studies, Professional Studies and Enhanced Studies. The Early Childhood Education pathway is designed to complement professional practice and the academic study should be informed by and inform practice.

In Curriculum Studies modules and taught days, you will develop your understanding and knowledge of the Early Years Foundation Stage curriculum, pedagogy and resources to support the teaching.

As you progress through your studies and can apply your learning to practical teaching situations, you will be introduced to a wider range of critical perspectives on teaching and learning in the early years. You will be expected to apply that critical reflection to your own teaching.

In Professional Studies modules and taught days, you will learn about broader aspects of education and the early years, its role in society and communities and how education policy and practice has an impact on schools. Key principles and values in early years education will be explored as you develop your own theories of education and reflect critically on others.

In the Enhanced Studies module and taught days, you will have the opportunity to choose a particular aspect of early years education and to study that in greater depth. Your learning in this context will enable you to reflect more strongly and critically on your own emerging identity as an early years teacher.

On completion of the course you will be awarded your Early Years Teacher Status from the National College of Teaching and Leadership. The Early Years Teacher Status is subject to the relevant standards and requirements set out by the Department for Education which are subject to change.

Format

You can expect to receive 50 hours academic direction for each module in a university taught session. The range of learning and teaching strategies is a central component of the design and planning of the PGCE Early Childhood Education pathway on the ITE course.

There is an expectation of 150 hours practice learning and independent study to support your individual and collaborative learning. We will use of a range of ways of engaging you in critical debate and discussion during taught sessions, including talk partners, small group discussion and micro-teaching, while enhancing the experience with practical, creative and active learning.

The Graduate Entry (Mainstream) students on this course are required to be in placement for 120 days. These placements are linked to two credit bearing modules and will contain the assessment process for the recommendation of the award of Early Years Teacher Status. The placements will be in settings for children from birth to five years and will be sourced by the Partnership Team in line with the University placement procedures and processes.

Students studying on the employment pathway (Graduate Entry Employment Based) will be able to use their current employment as their base location in addition to contrasting placements to meet the requirements of the course. On commencing the course they will complete a needs analysis with tutors so that gaps in their knowledge, skills and experience can be highlighted; in this way additional placements will be arranged to ensure these students can cover the breadth of the 0-5 years subject area.

Assessment

Early Childhood Education PGCE pathway students who opt for the PGCE modules (either as a whole or for separate Masters level modules) will be assessed in two main ways – via academic assignments and via assessment of your teaching.

You will submit academic assignments for 20 credits in curriculum, professional and enhanced studies. Each submission will include a written element, but you may also be assessed via presentation or practical performance as relevant to your subject or chosen options. You can achieve up to 60 Masters (Level 7) credits (except in the PGCE Modular pathway which offers up to 40 Masters (Level 7) credits.)

What can I do next?

On successful completion students will be awarded a Postgraduate Certificate in Education with Early Years Teacher Status. Students may have already achieved 60 Masters level credits and may wish to continue studies by applying for the MA Early Childhood Education.

How to apply

For information on how to apply, please follow this link: https://www.canterbury.ac.uk/study-here/how-to-apply/how-to-apply.aspx

Funding

-Masters Loans-

From 2016/17 government loans of up to £10,000 are available for postgraduate Masters study. The loans will be paid directly to students by the Student Loans Company and will be subject to both personal and course eligibility criteria.

For more information available here: https://www.canterbury.ac.uk/study-here/funding-your-degree/funding-your-postgraduate-degree.aspx

-2017/18 Entry Financial Support-

Information on alternative funding sources is available here: https://www.canterbury.ac.uk/study-here/funding-your-degree/2017-18-entry-financial-support.aspx

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*PLEASE NOTE: this course is subject to approval.*

This course enhances your knowledge, skills and understanding in specialist areas of education. It enables you to develop your critical engagement in specific areas of interest, such as Leadership, Special Educational Needs, Early Years and issues related to classroom studies.

The MA Education will allow you to gain further knowledge and understanding in areas of working with children and adults in a wide variety of local authority or social care settings as well as in nurseries, schools and colleges.

For those already in work, the part-time route will support promotion to leadership and management roles. Our names awards will enable students to progress to doctoral study in specific specialist areas.

Studying on this course will able you to apply your own area of interest or practice to specific areas of study and to develop in the direction which interests you. You will learn through a variety of ways including workshops, seminars, online learning and through tutorial support.

For those not working in educational settings, e.g. full-time home and international students, you will be given the opportunity to attend placements to support your learning. International students will be provided with additional supports in the first term of study with additional group sessional and tutorials.

For part-time students this blended learning course will allow you to study around your work commitments with a combination of face-to-face sessions as well as online support and activities.

On the MA Education courses you will be taught by experts in the fields of Education, Special Educational Needs, Diversity and Social Justice and Early Years. You will be supervised by staff who are publishing in current journals and have written books in these areas. Additionally you will meet staff who have had previous employment in Educational and Social Care settings and are able to relate theory to a practice context.

Visit the website: https://www.beds.ac.uk/howtoapply/courses/postgraduate/next-year/education-leadership2#entry

Course detail

The MA in Education (Leadership) is part-time and aimed at developing your knowledge of leading change within organisations which have education as a key focus. This could include Schools, Early Years settings, FE colleges, local government, prisons, military and private training organisations.

The course provides a dedicated route to an MA in Education (Leadership) for those in management positions (or on a management career path). The course aims to develop both analytical and practical skills and will equip you to critically analyse current practices and processes as well as develop your ownapproaches to effective change.

The course is underpinned by staff research and capitalises on the expertise in education, leadership, management and our Institute for Educational Research (IRED). Over 50% of IRED publications have been rated as world-leading or internationally excellent (Research Excellence Framework (REF) 2014).

Modules

• Dissertation In Education (Leadership) (EDC118-6) Compulsory
• Research Methods In The Workplace (EDC129-6) Compulsory

Assessment

Each unit in this course has its own assessment. Wherever possible, the specific focus of assignments is negotiated individually, in order to ensure that the assignment meets the personal and professional needs of the student. The course provides you with a carefully planned and coherent sequence of learning opportunities that facilitate your development through formative and summative assessments.

At this level the expectations, in terms of the quality of work produced, are high and you will need to take active control of your learning. At Masters level the expectation is that you are an autonomous and confident learner, that you will undertake assessments that are challenging and require mature argument developed from sustained research, and that you will demonstrate fluent and cogent presentation. You are encouraged in your assessments to draw upon an extensive range of sources to demonstrate a deep theoretical understanding and the ability to apply that to current issues and contexts.

The assessments test the ability to construct a reasoned, sustained and coherent argument, and to articulate it fluently, in a range of contexts. You are required to demonstrate an appropriate level of research, of independent argument, and to reference in an appropriate and accurate manner.

Through the assessments designed for individual units, you will practise and reinforce skills in researching, evaluating and synthesising materials with a critical eye; quantitative and qualitative data collection and handling, together with skills associated with conventional academic tasks. Unit assessment is based on specified learning outcomes and threshold standards.

The unit information forms state clearly the aims, objectives and learning outcomes of the unit, and delineate the criteria of assessment for each outcome. The unit assessment feedback offers detailed comment to the student on the assessment piece.

The taught stage of the course (stage 1) requires you to pass 120 credits before progressing to stage 2, the 60 credit dissertation. An alternative to this is if you already have a PG Certificate (60 credits) e.g. PGCE you would be able to complete your qualification with a further 2 x 30 credit units and our Applied Research Methods and Project for stage 2 of your study.

Careers

We aim to integrate examples from practice, up to date case studies and projects focussed on particular developments throughout the course. For existing professionals, a Masters level qualification will enhance your chances for promotion and for employment in other contexts. Masters study supports promotion to senior positions in the field of education, with this qualification acting as an important indicator of your ability and understanding of the roles and responsibilities of a senior leader in educational settings.

The course is designed to help you engage with study and critique key issues in education as well as to be able to identify and justify recommendations for further action. As a masters graduate, therefore, you will have the confidence, knowledge and critical skills to prepare and present a strong application to senior posts in the field of education.

Funding

For information on available funding, please follow the link: https://www.beds.ac.uk/howtoapply/money/scholarships/pg

How to apply

For information on how to apply, please follow the link: https://www.beds.ac.uk/howtoapply/course/applicationform

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This MA offers you the opportunity to explore current issues within early childhood education in national and international contexts, and can open up a wide range of career opportunities in areas including childcare management, lecturing and research.

It focuses on the crucial role that experiences in early education play in producing happy, healthy and successful children. Drawing on your own professional experience, practice and interests you'll be able to research and develop specialist areas of expertise within this field.

Specifically, our re-validated course provides an exciting new opportunity to:
• Engage in rigorous and critical professional development
• Explore issues of relevance to your own workplace
• Enhance your skills in research and critical enquiry
• Investigate the latest research
• Innovate and lead practice

Visit the website: https://www.canterbury.ac.uk/study-here/courses/postgraduate/early-childhood-education.aspx

Course detail

The range of modules is designed to reflect the range of expertise and specialisms within the Early Childhood Directorate teaching team, who are passionate about using insights from their research to enhance your learning experience. You will have the opportunity to develop your own research and specialist areas of expertise, based on personal interests and professional experiences. We encourage you to gain experience as a researcher, and there may be opportunities to get involved in research projects and student internships within the Faculty of Education.

You will study a core module at the outset which will help you develop an understanding of Level 7 learning and the importance of reflection on practice, as you begin to develop effective Level 7 writing skills and abilities.

• Professional Development through Research, Reflection and Professional Practice (core 20 credit module)

As you progress you will have the opportunity to develop these skills further in a range of optional 20 credit modules. Options include the following although some combinations may be limited due to your mode of study (full/part¬time). All modules are subject to change.

• Early Childhood Education: Curricular and Pedagogical Approaches (optional)
• Leading Quality Practice in Early Childhood Education (optional)
• Policy and Practice in Early Childhood Education (optional)
• Learning Outdoors in Early Childhood (optional)
• Children’s Lives in Context: Historical and International Perspectives (optional)
• Children and Charities in Early Childhood Education (optional)
• Early Childhood Education for Sustainability (optional)
• Early Childhood Education: Negotiated Project (optional)

The final 60 credits of the course are designed to enable you to demonstrate self-direction and originality in conducting an independent research study into a specialist area in early childhood education.

Suitability

The MA attracts a wide range of graduates from a variety of backgrounds not necessarily Early Years related but those who wish to expand and deepen their knowledge of young children from birth to 8 years. Throughout the course you will have the opportunity to engage in extracurricular activities hosted by the University such as conferences, open lectures, and visits to early years settings.

Format

You'll study using a variety of learning and teaching strategies involving you as an active participant in the process of learning and teaching depending upon the mode of delivery. Modules typically consist of a series of lectures, workshops and seminars which are delivered over the course of seven weeks. Some modules may be offered on a blended basis combining face to face Saturday sessions with access to online learning resources. Blended delivery is particularly appropriate where the module content demands experiential learning and some sessions may include field work as well as classroom based activities. It is also appropriate for modules such as the Negotiated Project where students are encouraged to further their own specific research interests with one-to-one tutor support.

All learning will be supported through the use of the University Virtual Learning Environment (Blackboard) as well as other digital media. Individual tutorials are offered to students in all modules and individual supervision forms an essential part of work on the dissertation. The module tutor or the Programme Director will act as your personal tutor.

Assessment

The programme uses a range of assessment types including presentations, action research reports, reflective commentaries, literature reviews and document analysis. You will also complete a 15,000 word dissertation based on your research interests.

What can I do next?

As a programme of rigorous and critical professional development, the MA Early Childhood Education can open up a wide range of opportunities. Graduates from the MA Early Childhood Education have been successful in pursuing careers in a variety of different professional contexts with roles including Lecturer in Early Years, Nursery Manager, Childrens Centre Manager, Deputy Headteacher (primary) and Creative Early Years Specialist. Some students have gone on to enroll on doctoral programmes and to undertake a PhD based on their particular research interests.

How to apply

For information on how to apply, please follow this link: https://www.canterbury.ac.uk/study-here/how-to-apply/how-to-apply.aspx

Funding

-Masters Loans-

From 2016/17 government loans of up to £10,000 are available for postgraduate Masters study. The loans will be paid directly to students by the Student Loans Company and will be subject to both personal and course eligibility criteria.

For more information available here: https://www.canterbury.ac.uk/study-here/funding-your-degree/funding-your-postgraduate-degree.aspx

-2017/18 Entry Financial Support-

Information on alternative funding sources is available here: https://www.canterbury.ac.uk/study-here/funding-your-degree/2017-18-entry-financial-support.aspx

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