Taught course

Postgraduate Certificate Secondary Education (QTS) - English

Institution
University of Birmingham · School of Education
Qualifications
PGCE(QTS)

Entry requirements

We expect candidates for the Secondary PGCE (QTS) to be able to demonstrate the academic quality to teach the subject that they will be training to teach. This will include a strong academic record at A level or equivalent in relevant subjects, along with a strong degree (usually a minimum of 2:2) relevant to the subject taught. In all cases we will be looking at the relevance of your degree, other qualifications and experiences related to your proposed teaching subject in assessing academic suitability. You must also have GCSE Maths and English (Grade 4/C or above) or equivalent qualifications which will be a condition of any offer, if not already achieved. Equivalency tests will be accepted but only from equivalency testing.

All applicants to the Secondary PGCE (QTS) English course must hold a degree from a UK Higher Education Institution or an equivalent qualification. This will normally be a minimum 2:2 classification and this will be a condition of any offer where the degree has not already been awarded. At least half your degree should be in English. Graduates with degrees in Classics with an A level in English Literature are also invited to apply. If the degree is in English Language, a good pass in A Level English Literature will be required.

If you have any questions about entry requirements, please contact us on ITEadmissions@contacts.bham.ac.uk

You must also:

  • complete an enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check before taking up a place.
  • complete relevant checks to ensure you have the health and physical capacity to teach.
  • agree to abide by the University of Birmingham Code of Professional Conduct and Fitness to Practise.

Months of entry

September

Course content

The Postgraduate Certificate in Education (English) leads to Qualified Teacher Status (QTS). Our specialist programme, which offers high quality training and support, will prepare you to teach in the 11-18 age range and is run in close partnership with schools.

On the Postgraduate Certificate Secondary Education (QTS) English programme you will be challenged to develop informed and justified decisions about how you approach your teaching in order to enable you to continue to develop over the course of your career. On successful completion of your PGCE, you may return to study with us on a part-time basis to complete your Masters in Teaching Studies.

On this PGCE programme you will benefit from our unique collaboration with the University of Birmingham School as well as a wide range of partner schools, including mixed comprehensive, single sex, religious and selective schools and sixth form colleges. These diverse communities we serve will enrich your experience on the programme.

You may be eligible for bursaries of up to £10,000 (depending on qualifications) in line with the government’s priority to attract more well qualified English teachers (for 2024 entry).

The School of Education at the University of Birmingham has a long tradition of delivering teacher training courses. Its teaching has been graded as 'outstanding' three times by Ofsted inspectors which affirms the University’s status as one of the UK’s leading institutions for excellence in teacher training. The PGCE English programme has an excellent and proven track record. It is rigorous and challenging, forming an excellent preparation for a successful career in teaching English.

Qualification, course duration and attendance options

  • PGCE(QTS)
    full time
    9 months
    • Campus-based learningis available for this qualification

Course contact details