PGCE Primary Education QTS (Qualified Teacher Status)

Entry requirements

Applicants will be considered if they expect to acquire the necessary qualifications before the start of the training programme.

Degree: You will need a degree classification of 2:2 or above in any degree discipline

Level 2: Additionally, you will also need GCSE at grade C/4 or above in:

• English Language
• Mathematics
• Science*

*The following Level 2 Science qualifications are acceptable:

• GCSE Single Award in Chemistry, Biology or Physics
• GCSE Science Double Award
• BTEC Level 2 in Science with a Pass profile

Months of entry

February, April, September

Course content

Teaching is far more than a job. For many, it's a calling – an opportunity to engage and inspire children, enabling them to develop the skills and knowledge they need to thrive. If you dream of becoming a primary teacher, our PGCE Primary QTS course not only gives you the professional theory needed to excel in a modern primary school setting, but also vital hands-on experience in the classroom.

Whether you aspire to work in a mainstream school or one for children with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND), completion of this course will lead to Early Career Teacher (ECT) status which is achieved over two years after completing your PGCE, helping you start your journey in a profession offering a competitive salary, generous pension and financial support while training. Throughout your studies, you will be supported by our dedicated team with expertise across all areas of the primary curriculum.

Our PGCE course allows you to focus on the age group you would like to teach, with suitable placements to match your chosen specialism. You can specialise in working with children aged 3-7 (Early Years Foundation Stage and Key Stage 1), or children aged 5-11 (Key Stages 1 and 2). We also provide the opportunity for you to gain valuable experience working in a special school, as well as the chance to develop your own interests and expertise through a school-based legacy project.

Information for international students

International qualifications are also accepted – they must be recognised by NARIC as equivalent and meet the requirement for The National College for Teaching and Leadership (NCTL) for Initial Teacher Training. In some cases, English Language may not be accepted from the country of origin.

If you are unsure whether your qualifications are suitable, please contact Admissions on pgce@ucb.ac.uk or call 0121 232 226.