Are you interested in training to be a teacher? Whether you want to work every day discussing a subject you love, or would be keen to help the next generation with their studies, a PGCE course could be for you.
Not sure how it works? Then our PGCE FAQs can help...
PGCE FAQs
Where can I study for a PGCE?
There are hundreds of universities and colleges across the UK where PGCE courses are taught, although sometimes programmes can be studied elsewhere through flexible distance learning. To qualify as a teacher, some time is likely to be spent on placement at a nearby school.
How do I apply?
Start by searching for PGCE courses. You can search by training provider, location and subject to find the PGCE course that best suits you.
You can apply for a teacher training place through UCAS Teacher Training, or by using Apply for teacher training which is a new GOV.UK service.
The new Apply service will eventually replace the UCAS service. However, the new service is currently limited to certain training providers. Therefore, it's best to apply through the service that has your chosen training providers.
What qualifications do I need to have?
You’ll be expected to already have an undergraduate degree, which will usually be relevant to the subject you’re hoping to teach in.
There’s no widespread degree classification required, although most PGCE courses will expect you to have achieved at least a 2:2 in your undergraduate degree.
All applicants are also expected to have at least a GCSE grade 4 (C) in English and maths, as well as at least that grade in science if they’re looking to teach primary school children.
How long does a PGCE take?
The vast majority of PGCE courses are full time for one year, including a sizeable chunk of time spent on placement.
However, part-time programmes can be spread out over a two-year period.
The full-time courses will generally run from September through to June, although if you’re studying at home those dates that may differ.
Am I entitled to any funding?
You can apply for a loan to cover the tuition fees for the full cost of the PGCE course, which can be up to £9,250.
Eligible teacher trainees can also apply for a maintenance loan to help with living and accommodation costs. The amount you can apply for depends on where you live and whether you're living at home.
You may also be able to claim for additional bursaries and scholarships, as long as you meet the guidelines for those.
Will I qualify for a bursary?
Bursaries are available to a large percentage of people, and are assessed based on the subject you choose to teach and the degree you gained at undergraduate level.
Bursaries in differing amounts are available depending on whether you choose to teach chemistry, maths, physics, computing, classics, languages or biology.
Can I get a scholarship?
Many governing bodies and societies offer teacher training scholarships in their specialist subject, with the Institute of Physics and the Royal Society of Chemistry two examples of those that offer these. These can often be as much as £26,000, although if claiming a scholarship you’ll be unable to also claim for the standard bursaries.
What are the benefits of taking a PGCE?
A PGCE programme will develop your teaching skills, as you get hands-on experience being trained while teaching students yourself, so it’ll put you in the perfect position to progress to full-time teaching.
In addition, the PGCE is an internationally recognised qualification. If you want to complete a Master's degree or teach abroad in the future, a PGCE may prove to be useful.
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