Entry requirements

You will need to have a good degree (minimum 2:2 but 2:1 or 1st preferred) from a UK higher education institution or equivalent at least 50 per cent of which is in drama or a drama-related subject.

You must have a GCSE grade C or above (or equivalent) in both English language and mathematics prior to enrolment and if you are offered an interview you will take a written test to assess your standard of English.

If you do not already have GCSEs in English language and mathematics, or their equivalent, and are not registered to take them, you should visit Equivalency Testing.

It should be noted that applicants taking the equivalency tests need to have passed prior to enrolment.

For entry onto a teaching course from September 2014 you will also be required to pass the Skills Tests in Literacy and Numeracy. Please visit the DfE website for further information.

Pre-Interview School Experience

For secondary teacher training there is an expectation that you 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 you are required to engage in a teaching episode, observed by an experienced qualified teacher.

It will support your application to undertake this teaching episode prior to enrolment and in advance of your 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.

You will also take a written test to assess your standard of English.

Applicants must 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.

Fees and funding

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

The National College for Teaching and Leadership bursaries are available for trainees on eligible postgraduate courses in England who are not employed as a teacher. Bursary amounts will vary depending on teaching subject and degree class.

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

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