If you are inspired by the world around you and wish to make a positive difference in the lives of young people, then a career in teaching or education could be for you.
You will introduce children to the world of learning, and start them on their road to reading, writing, and mathematics. It’s a very rewarding and satisfying career in which you can make a real difference in children’s lives. Primary teachers work with children in Years 1 to 8 (ages 5 to 13) in primary, intermediate, middle, and area schools.
The BTchLn(Primary) is a professional qualification that prepares you for a rewarding career as a primary school teacher. There are a number of study options available to students including:
- full-time or part-time study on campus in Ōtautahi Christchurch
- full-time in Whakatū Nelson by a mix of face-to-face and distance study
- full-time or part-time study by distance.
Entry requirements
Admission to UC with University Entrance (or equivalent) is required to enrol.
Students for whom English is an additional language are also required to meet the requirements set out by Matatū Aotearoa | Teaching Council of New Zealand.
For information on gaining admission to UC teacher education programmes please see the Guide to Applying.
Selection process
The BTchLn(Primary) has one intake each February. Selection for entry is based on:
- academic ability, involvement and interest in working with children, community involvement, communication skills, and other personal qualities as outlined in the Guide to Applying
- a police check, referees’ reports, and an interview
- a short literacy and numeracy test.
How to apply
Applications are open throughout the year and close four weeks prior to the start of the programme in early February, or when places are filled.
For more details on entry requirements and the teacher education application process see the Guide to Applying.
Contact us
For the full degree requirements, see the Regulations for the Bachelor of Teaching and Learning (Primary).
For study planning help, contact the UC Liaison Office | Te Rōpū Takawaenga o UC (new students) or a College of Education, Health and Human Development | Te Rāngai Ako me te Hauora Student Advisor (advancing students).
For more information on facilities, resources, and staff, see the College of Education, Health and Human Development | Te Rāngai Ako me te Hauora.
For more general information, email [email protected] or freephone 0800 VARSITY (827 748).