The Bachelor of Teaching (Primary) at EIT Hawke’s Bay and Tair?whiti is a professional teacher education degree designed for students who want to become qualified primary school teachers in New Zealand. The programme prepares graduates to teach children from Years 0–8 (ages 5–13).

This qualification uses a practice-based learning model that combines:

• Classroom theory
• School placements
• Online and self-directed learning
• Real teaching experience in partner primary schools

Why Study Bachelor of Teaching (Primary) at EIT?

Key Reasons to Choose This Programme

•  Professionally recognised teaching qualification in New Zealand
• Practice-based learning with strong classroom exposure
• Balance of theory, research, and practical teaching
• Close partnerships with local primary schools
• Smaller class sizes and personalised academic support
• Pathway to teacher registration in New Zealand
• High employability in the education sector
• Strong community-focused teaching model
• Preparation for postgraduate studies

Professional & Character Requirements

Applicants must:

• Be suitable to work with children
• Provide two referee reports
• Submit police vetting documentation
• Declare good physical and mental health
• Demonstrate professional values aligned with the Teaching Council of Aotearoa New Zealand

Programme Structure / Subjects Offered

The curriculum combines educational theory with extensive school practice.

Key Areas of Study

Students typically study topics such as:

• Child development
• Teaching and learning theory
• Curriculum design
• Literacy education
• Numeracy education
• Educational psychology
• Inclusive education
• Classroom management
• M?ori and bicultural education
• Professional teaching practice
• Assessment and evaluation
• Teaching diverse learners
• Digital technologies in education
• Community and family engagement
• Reflective teaching practice

Practical Teaching Experience

A major feature of the programme is school-based teaching practice.

Students:

• Spend regular time in partner primary schools
• Apply classroom learning in real teaching environments
• Gain practical experience throughout the degree

Disciplines / Specialisations

Primary focus:

• Primary Education (Years 0–8)

Students gain expertise in:

• Junior primary teaching
• Middle primary teaching
• Upper primary education
• Inclusive classroom teaching
• Curriculum delivery
• Child-centred learning approaches

Career Outcomes

Graduates may work as:

• Primary School Teacher
• Junior School Teacher
• Intermediate School Teacher
• Education Support Teacher
• Learning Support Educator
• Community Education Facilitator

Graduates can work in:

• Public primary schools
• Private schools
• Community education organisations
• Learning support environments

International Student Support

EIT offers comprehensive support services including:

• International student advisors
• Academic learning support
• Wellbeing services
• Disability support
• Orientation programmes
• Career guidance

Special Requirements / Important Notes

Important Programme Requirements

Students may need to:

• Complete practical placements in schools
• Pass police vetting checks
• Meet professional teaching standards
• Demonstrate suitability to work with children

Latest Updates

•  EIT continues to expand practical teaching partnerships with schools
• Enrolments for upcoming intakes are currently open
• The programme remains highly valued for its classroom-ready graduate approach
• Teacher demand continues across many regions in New Zealand

Visa Requirements for International Students

International students generally require:

• Valid New Zealand Student Visa
• Offer of Place from EIT
• Proof of tuition fee payment
• Evidence of sufficient living funds
• Medical and travel insurance
• English language proficiency proof
• Genuine student intent documentation

Highlights of the Programme

What Makes This Degree Unique?

• Strong practice-based teacher education model
• Extensive real classroom experience
• Professional teacher registration pathway
• Blended learning flexibility
• Community-focused teaching philosophy
• Excellent student support
• Small class sizes
• Industry-connected learning environment