Entry requirements

A good degree (minimum 2:2 but 2:1 or 1st preferred) from a UK Higher Education institution or equivalent at least 50 percent of which is in drama or a drama-related subject. Candidates should have a GCSE grade C or above (or equivalent) in both English language and mathematics prior to application and if they are offered an interview they will take a written test to assess their standard of English. Applicants without GCSEs in English language or mathematics, or their equivalent, who are not registered to take them, should visit Equivalency Testing. It should be noted that applicants taking the equivalency tests need to have passed prior to making an application. For entry onto a teaching course you will also be required to pass the Skills Tests in Literacy and Numeracy. Please visit the DfE website for further information. You will not be able to enrol onto your course until you have passed these tests.

Pre-Interview School Experience: For secondary teacher training there is an expectation that applicants will have had some general experience of working with secondary age students in a school setting. In preparation for the selection interview stage of the recruitment process candidates are required to engage in a teaching episode, observed by an experienced qualified teacher. It will support candidates' application to undertake this teaching episode prior to application and in advance of their interview.

Selection Interview: The selection interview will assess your subject knowledge and personal qualities such as the potential to relate well to secondary age students, enthusiasm, sensitivity, communication skills and robustness and resilience for teaching. Applicants must also meet The National College for Teaching and Leadership requirements for initial teacher training, which means being medically fit and successfully completing an enhanced disclosure via the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS).

Months of entry

September

Course content

If you’re passionate about introducing the exciting world of learning through drama in all its forms to children and young people, this Secondary Drama PGCE will give you the strong grounding you need to make a contribution to this essential aspect of education.

The ability to tell a story powerfully, through actions as well as words, is important and you will learn how to inspire and encourage your students to express themselves in this way.

Techniques used in many different forms of drama can be used to help pupils to become more self-confident and, as a teacher you can offer them a wide range of experiences.

This course has strong links with local theatre companies such as the internationally renowned Big Brum Theatre in Education Company, with whom trainees will collaborate to create enriching drama education. In addition trainees are offered the opportunity to extend their education through the Masters in Teaching and Learning Drama with input from theatre professionals, previous graduates and local school practitioners.

Information for international students

Prospective students from non-EU countries may enquire via the International Enquiry Form or call +44 (0)121 331 6714.

Birmingham City University is a vibrant and multicultural university in the heart of a modern and diverse city. We welcome many international students every year – there are currently students from more than 80 countries among our student community.

Fees and funding

UK students

£9,250

International students

£12,000

Although this is a postgraduate course, current PGCE students are eligible for the finance support package available to full-time undergraduates.

Qualification and course duration

PGCE(QTS)

full time

12 months

Course contact details

Name: Pre-entry Enquiries Team
Email: courseenquiries@bcu.ac.uk

Phone: +44 (0)121 331 5595

Visit website