Postgraduate Certificate in Education

Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE) training programmes at a university or college are available for prospective primary and secondary school teachers. You'll get classroom experience by spending time teaching and being trained in at least two schools, as well as time at the university or college you've chosen, working with a group of other students, and being taught by university staff.

Typically one year, PGCE programmes are a popular graduate route into teaching in England, combining academic study on campus with a minimum of 24 weeks on school placements, while you train towards your Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) recommendation.

PGCE programmes can contain up to 60 credits at master’s degree level. The number of credits at this level can vary, so check with your chosen provider if gaining master’s credits is important to you. Some training providers may also give you the chance to study for the credits you’d need for a full master’s degree, after you’ve completed your training.
You don’t need a PGCE qualification to teach in England, although you may find it useful later on if, for example, you want to teach in another country, or go on to complete a master's degree.

• A degree awarded by a UK Higher Education institution or recognised alternative, C/4 in GCSE Maths and English, also science if applying for primary. Pass in professional skills test. Some training providers may also have specific entry criteria.
• DBS Check

QTS, PGCE

• N/A but you can apply for tuition fee and maintenance loans
• Tax-free bursaries may also be available

The amount training providers charge varies – for UK and EU students, it can be up to £9,250 per year for a full-time programme starting in 2018.

1 year

UCAS Teacher Training