Primary Education with Art

Primary education with art is a degree designed for people who want to teach in primary schools and who have a particular passion for the visual arts. Teaching young children is one of the most complex and rewarding professional undertakings there is, requiring a deep understanding of how children learn and develop, the ability to manage and motivate a classroom, and a thorough knowledge of the primary curriculum across all the core subjects. The art specialisation recognises that creative subjects play a vital role in primary education, supporting not only artistic development but broader cognitive, emotional, and social learning, and that primary teachers with real depth in art can contribute something distinctive to their schools.

At the University of Reading, you will study over three years of full-time study, developing both your educational knowledge and your artistic practice. The education component covers child development, learning theory, curriculum design, assessment, and inclusive practice, alongside extensive time in primary school placements where you will develop your teaching skills under the guidance of experienced practitioners. The art strand develops your practical skills and your critical understanding of visual art in educational contexts, exploring how art can be taught effectively at primary level, how it connects to children's broader development, and how it relates to the full scope of the curriculum.

Reading has strong partnerships with local primary schools and an established reputation for initial teacher education.

The primary focus of this degree is on qualifying as a primary school teacher. Upon graduation, you will have met the requirements for Qualified Teacher Status, which is the professional credential needed to teach in state-maintained primary schools in England. From there, the career develops through classroom teaching, with opportunities to take on leadership roles in art and design within your school, to become a subject coordinator, and in time to pursue senior leadership and headship.

The art specialism also opens opportunities in advisory and consultancy roles supporting art education, in museum and gallery education departments working with school groups, and in curriculum development and educational publishing. Postgraduate study in education, curriculum, or arts education is also an option for those who want to develop their expertise further.