PGCE Secondary Music with Specialist Instrument Teaching with QTS

You will normally have a minimum of a 2:2 undergraduate honours degree awarded by a UK university, or an equivalent higher education qualification. In most cases your degree needs to support the subject knowledge requirements of the national curriculum for music. However, music is a unique subject and we have several high quality trainees who have had degrees in non-music subjects, but through professional work have shown the necessary skills to enter the course. For exceptional candidates, particularly those with substantial relevant work experience in schools or relevant occupations, we will consider applications from those who hold a 3rd class degree.

GCSEs
You will also need GCSEs at grade C/4 or above in English language and mathematics. However, you may be able to apply with GCSEs pending for this course as we can offer Manchester Met GCSE equivalency tests. This will be at the discretion of the admissions tutor, and only offered if considered appropriate after interview.

We do not accept the following qualifications as equivalent to GCSE: adult numeracy and literacy, functional skills or key skills.

You can apply with GCSEs pending for this course and in exceptional circumstances Manchester Met GCSE equivalency tests may be offered. This will be at the discretion of the admissions tutor and will only be offered if considered appropriate after interview.

Experience in educational settings

Successful candidates will demonstrate a good understanding of teaching and learning within a secondary school setting. 

You may wish to evidence your understanding by drawing on related examples or experiences, such as time spent in schools or other learning settings.

Other requirements

A Disclosure and Barring Service Check and DfE Fitness to Teach test are also required.

Overseas

Overseas candidates should have Cambridge Proficiency in English or IELTS Band 7 with no less than 6.0 in any element.

Personal Statement

This plays an important role in the admissions process and successful candidates will demonstrate a good understanding of teaching and learning within a secondary school setting. Candidates may wish to evidence their understanding by drawing on related examples or experiences, such as time spent in schools or other learning settings.

Interview

You will be expected to attend an interview as part of the application process. Full details of your interview will be provided by email once your initial application has been approved.

This is a practical course where you will be immersed in music making, teaching and encouraged to use and develop your musical skills.

We teach you through practical sessions, and you’ll consider topics such as pop music, dance, gamelan, song writing and developing your subject knowledge. You’ll explore immersive ways to teach music and how to encourage pupils to engage with musical experiences.

We have a partnership with the Royal Northern College of Music (RNCM) and we hold regular study sessions there. At RNCM, you’ll usually have the opportunity to experience guest lectures masterclasses and concerts and also have access to their other facilities including library, practice rooms and IT facilities.

To help you explore how trips can benefit your students, you’ll typically be encouraged to visit a variety of musical venues across Manchester. This includes theatre schools and music organisations with outreach programmes.

When you’re at Manchester Met, you’ll mainly study with your PGCE Music group. They are one of your greatest learning resources. You’ll consider how to plan lessons, reflect on your planning, learn how research can develop your teaching practice, and look at ways to develop your teacher persona.

You’ll also learn through peer-collaboration, sharing knowledge with your fellow music trainees.

This PGCE is available via University led and School Direct routes.