Bachelor of Special and Inclusive Education (Primary) University of New England (UNE)

Teaching is a rewarding career choice for those who enjoy being part of children's development. The professional skills learned will be valued by the community and will bring teachers into contact with people of all ages. Teachers are members of one of the largest professions of our society. The degree will give students the opportunity to develop the skills, knowledge and attitudes needed to become a successful primary teacher, with a primary teaching specialization as mandated by the Australian Institute for Teaching and School Leadership (AITSL), in Literacy in the Inclusive Classroom. Students are encouraged to be independent learners who are able to adapt efficiently and constructively to meet the changes which occur in the teaching profession.

The course is structured to provide in the first year eight discipline units across the Primary Key Learning Areas, to ensure a spread of content background; successful completion of this first year also gives all students, irrespective of their educational backgrounds, the opportunity to demonstrate they meet the Government's academic standards for studying teaching.

In addition to the above, from 2018 initial teacher education students must satisfy the School of their suitability for teaching through the satisfactory completion of a non-academic capability assessment.

Career Opportunities

The Bachelor of Special and Inclusive Education (Primary) prepares teachers to work in an inclusive setting (local primary school) or a special class (within a local primary school or within a special school).

Course Aims

The Bachelor of Special and Inclusive Education (Primary) aims to provide graduates with:

(i) an accredited professional qualification meeting the requirements of the Australian Institute for Teaching and School Leadership (AITSL) for initial teacher education programs, and ensuring all graduates meet the Australian Professional Standards for Teachers at the Graduate Career Stage; and

(ii) UNE Graduate attributes, as detailed below.

Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this course, students will be able to:

• Know their students and how students learn;
• Know their subject/content and how to teach that content to their students;
• Plan for and implement effective teaching and learning for all students across the range of abilities;
• Create and maintain supportive and safe learning environments, including for students with special needs;
• Assess, provide feedback and report on student learning;
• Continually improve by engaging in professional learning; and
• Continually engage professionally with colleagues, parents/careers and the community.