Professional/Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE)

Prepare to teach with our PGCE programmes.

The Professional Graduate Certificate in Education is for those wishing to become a teacher in the post-compulsory sector (further education, higher education, the health service, adult and community education or private training providers). It enables students to apply for Professional Formation (following graduation), leading to Qualified Teacher Learning and Skills (QTLS) status. QTLS now has equal value with QTS in schools.

The Postgraduate Certificate in Education provides training in order to allow graduates to become teachers within maintained schools. PGCE programmes are a popular route into teaching and, in addition to gaining the PGCE qualification itself, those who have successfully completed the course are recommended for Qualified Teacher Status (QTS). Typically taking one or two years, a PGCE combines studying teaching and learning theory on campus with school placements.

What are the benefits of a PGCE?

Teaching career options span several age groups from nursery, to primary and secondary to further and higher education. A career in teaching is rewarding and means that you could make a positive contribution to people’s lives and society as a whole.

PGCEs are designed to enhance your academic knowledge, allowing you to gain confidence and prepare you for a role in teaching. As an internationally recognised qualification, a PGCE affords you the flexibility to teach in other countries.

Whether you’re starting out in teaching or making a career change, we offer flexible, effective and local routes into teaching.

Key programme features

  • Combines academic study with placements
  • Internationally recognised qualification
  • Designed to prepare you for a career in teaching
  • Helps you achieve QTS or QTLS
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