Education, Childhood and SEND Undergraduate Courses

Shape the future of learning with an Education degree from Derby. Gain the skills, knowledge, and confidence to inspire the next generation through outstanding training, research-led teaching, and exceptional career opportunities.

Why study Education, Childhood and SEND at Derby?

• Ofsted rated ‘Outstanding’: Our Primary, Secondary, and Further Education provision received top marks in 2023, reflecting the high quality of our teacher training programmes.
• Diverse specialisms: Tailor your studies to your interests with pathways in Childhood Studies, Special Educational Needs (SEND), Education Studies, Post-14 Education, or Teacher Training.
• Supportive learning environment: With small class sizes, expert lecturers, and a vibrant academic community, you’ll receive the personal guidance you need to excel.

Innovative Teaching and Learning

• Our teaching methods are designed to reflect the realities of modern classrooms, preparing you to handle policy shifts, diverse learner needs, and new technologies.
• Courses include practical workshops, interactive seminars, and digital learning tools to ensure your skills are future-proof.

Practical Experience

• Gain hands-on experience through placements in schools, early years settings, and colleges. We partner with over 300 schools in the region to provide tailored opportunities for every specialisation.
• Collaborate with educators and learners during your placement to develop your teaching style, classroom management, and confidence.

Research and Innovation

• As part of the Institute of Education, you’ll benefit from research that informs policy and practice in areas like behaviour management, inclusive education, and lifelong learning.
• Our lecturers are active researchers, publishing on topics such as early years development, special needs education, and education technology, ensuring your learning is informed by the latest insights.

Career Opportunities

• Graduates often move into teaching roles at primary, secondary, and further education levels, with many progressing into leadership positions.
• Others pursue careers in education consultancy, curriculum design, or specialised roles within SEND.
• The comprehensive careers support at Derby ensures you’re prepared for interviews, applications, and networking to secure your dream role.

Inspire the next generation with a career in education. Apply now to take your first step toward making a difference.

"There were a lot of opportunities to take extra training"

"I was really glad that I chose Education Studies because it allows me to go into a whole range of roles. You get to learn about the whole picture, rather than just what goes on in mainstream classrooms. There were a lot of opportunities to take extra training alongside your degree."

Sarah is now the Managing Director of Operation Diversity, a company she set up to enable individuals with dyslexia and other specific learning difficulties to reach their full potential. She is also an ambassador for the British Dyslexia Association (DBA), a motivational speaker and Inclusion Consultant.

Sarah Chapman, BA (Hons) Education Studies graduate

Education, Childhood and SEND - your questions answered

In the below video, Head of Discipline, Sharon Bell, answers some of the most frequently asked questions about Education, Childhood and SEND at the University of Derby.