PGCE Secondary English

Entry requirements

You are normally required to have at least a 2:2 honours degree (or equivalent from a university outside the UK) in a subject that is related to the subject you intend to teach.

You will need to have achieved Grade 4 (or C) or above in GCSE Mathematics and English Language or equivalent qualifications.

As part of the application process for this programme, you will be required to attend an interview.

You will also need to demonstrate competence in Fundamental English and mathematics by the end of the course. This is a new DfE requirement which replaces the QTS skills tests in literacy and numeracy.

If you accept an offer with us you will also be required to successfully complete Occupational Health and Disclosure Barring Service (DBS) Enhanced Disclosure checks.

Apply for this course through DfE Apply and select Provider Code R12 and course English (Q3X1).

Months of entry

September

Course content

Study our PGCE Secondary English at the Institute of Education and benefit from highly experienced tutors and consistently high employment rates.

At the University of Reading, we recognise the importance of teaching children to think, create, and explore the world through language and literature.

How you’ll learn

Training to teach English at the University of Reading is a dynamic, innovative, and practical experience. You’ll share your passion for English literature and develop professional skills to become an excellent teacher.

Your learning will take place through a blend of pedagogy sessions, professional studies, and school experience. You’ll engage in about 50 three-hour taught subject sessions and 10 professional studies sessions.

Throughout the course, you’ll learn:

• teaching English literature, including Shakespeare and poetry
• teaching writing – including grammar, language, vocabulary and spelling
• teaching oral communication skills
• teaching and using drama in English
• teaching media in English
• adaptive teaching in English
• planning, progress and assessment.

QTS status

This Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE) Secondary English course leads to the award of Qualified Teacher Status (QTS), qualifying you to teach the 11-18 age group in secondary schools in England and Wales.

Information for international students

IELTS: 6.5 overall with no element less than 5.5