English

Entry requirements

Currently, you must have GCSE passes at grade C/4 or above in English Language and Mathematics.

Prospective candidates will have good knowledge of the subject, usually gained from first degree award. The normal expectation is that students will have at least 50% of their first degree in English (either Language or Literature), though related subjects such as media, journalism, creative writing, drama and so forth are seriously considered.

Months of entry

September

Course content

The English Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE) course prepares you to teach the subject to all ages and abilities in the secondary school system (KS3 and KS4). The central aim of the course is to produce confident, competent and professional teachers of English with a good grasp of effective approaches to teaching, and the enthusiasm and skill to help pupils understand, enjoy and apply this subject.

Are you an English Graduate with a passion for language and literature? Are you excited by the prospect of teaching students to analyse a wide range of texts? The English PGCE course will equip you to teach English to pupils aged 11-16 (with additional opportunities to look at A level teaching during the course) and will develop your understanding of key concepts and processes, as well as developing and enhancing your subject knowledge. Through high quality collaborative taught sessions, bespoke developmental activities and supportive in-school placements, you will develop skills in planning, delivering and assessing learning activities; equipping you to make a significant contribution to English departments during your training year and beyond.

Our PGCE Secondary course will equip you with the necessary skills and knowledge to teach English across the secondary age range, including some opportunities to know more about 16-19 teaching. Candidates should note that the majority of schools in the Southampton partnership serve 11-16 cohorts and access to post-16 experience is limited to guest speakers, independent inquiries and observations in the main. Our PGCE trainees have successfully secured posts teaching across the 11-19 age range. There is a strong working relationship between the university and partner schools to develop your ability to teach English effectively. This involves not just understanding how to teach but why; the emphasis on the latter explores both why the subject matters as well as exploring the benefits of a range of teaching approaches. The course is very practical but underpinned by an emphasis on developing your own theoretical and philosophical position towards English teaching. It is a challenging course but highly effective. The course enjoys a very strong local and national reputation and has high completion and employment rates.

Fees and funding