Secondary English with QTS (11-16)

Typical offer 104-112 UCAS Tariff points. An A Level at minimum grade C (or equivalent) in English is required, plus GCSE English Language or English Literature and Mathematics at Grade C or Grade 4 or above (or equivalent)

Please note, for the purposes of initial teacher training, level 2 literacy and numeracy qualifications are not considered as equivalent to GCSE Grade C or Grade 4 in English Language or English Literature and Mathematics.

An interview forms part of the selection process.

If you accept a formal offer from Edge Hill University you will be required to meet the Department for Education’s standards for physical and mental fitness to teach and clearance to work with children. Further information, including a Declaration of Health questionnaire and details of how to apply for a Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) Enhanced Disclosure will be sent to you after you have firmly accepted an offer.

You could apply for direct entry at Level 5 if you can evidence appropriate prior learning in accordance with Edge Hill University’s Academic Regulations.

Please note, the part-time route for this course is available from 2026 entry and is not available to international students.

Ready to change the way young people understand and use English? Want to develop their literary appreciation in an engaging way? Eager to grow your subject expertise? Training to teach English to secondary school pupils on our PGCE course could be your perfect next step.

You’ll learn to reflect on your own philosophy of teaching English, develop analytical skills and boost your own subject knowledge. With plenty of practical experience in planning effective lessons, you’ll also get lots of hands-on experience. At Edge Hill, our experts will introduce you to a range of exciting and interactive teaching methods, including the use of drama and ICT.

Confidence in the classroom

You’ll spend a significant proportion of your PGCE year on placement in a secondary school focusing on 11-16 teaching. Although you’ll only observe at the start, you’ll gradually get more opportunities to take the lead, helping you become more confident and more competent in the classroom.

Throughout your placement, you’ll be supported by your English tutor and school-based expert mentor. Listen to their advice about how to apply what you’ve learnt in seminars to the classroom. Turn to them whenever you need support or feedback.

Successful completion of the programme leads to a recommendation for Qualified Teacher Status (QTS).