The PGCE Route (Post Graduate Certificate in Education)
If you already have a degree – or want to get one before you begin training to be a teacher – this is a route for you.
PGCEs may be undertaken at universities which offer Initial Teacher Training (ITT) or through a SCITT consortium (School Centred Initial Teacher Training – see below for more details). Most are one-year full-time courses although some places offer these courses over two years, enabling you to continue in employment and study in your spare time. The Open University also provides a part-time course, which lasts for approximately 18 months. If you decide to get a degree first it is important to choose the degree carefully, and to check its suitability with the initial teacher training institution where you plan to undertake your teacher training.
If you are going to teach at secondary level (Key Stage 3 or 4) then normally your first degree should be in a subject closely related to the subject that you intend to train to teach in. However indiviudal training provders may accept other degrees as being acceptable - please check with the indiviudal trianing provider first whetehr your degree is acceptable.
National Curriculum subjects at secondary level are as follows:
- Mathematics
- English
- Science
- Design Technology
- ICT
- Geography
- History
- Music
- Art and Design
- PE
- RE
- Modern Languages
- Citizenship
It will also be necessary to satisfy the basic entry requirements to teacher training, that is you must hold a GCSE grade C in English and Mathematics. Those who enter primary or Key Stage 2/3 training will also need Science.
Click here for details of local providers of PGCEs (PDF document).
Another alternative is to take your PGCE via School Centred Initial Teacher Training (SCITT). These courses are run by accredited groups of primary and secondary schools, and also lead to Qualified Teacher Status.
A course of this kind has the advantage of offering full-time, hands-on training in at least two high-quality schools – wherever possible, these will be conveniently located in your area.
Click here for
more information on SCITTs.
Daniel - Great Baddow High School and Sports College History Teacher"I came to Essex to complete my PGCE placements at two schools based in the middle of the county. A job opportunity then arose for me in Chelmsford where I successfully secured a position as a History Teacher. The school seemed to provide excellent opportunities for career development and it was situated in Chelmsford, a vibrant part of the county. Almost immediately Essex County Council provided a comprehensive induction course offering advice, subject specific teaching tips and channels of support. In conjunction with the school I had a choice of people to turn to for assistance if needed. This made my newly appointed colleagues and I feel both welcome and valued!
Working in Chelmsford is excellent because the town is great for wining and dining. It offers a wide choice of shopping facilities alongside a well-stocked library and an expanse of parkland. At present I am living in Braintree and this is a rapidly developing town with a wealth of new facilities under development and Braintree Freeport, a must for any clothes shopping!"