PGCE Primary Education (3-11) (Provider-led University-based) with QTS*

We develop excellent teachers who are resilient, critical, and reflective classroom practitioners. You will benefit from the university’s commitment to inclusivity, diversity and serving disadvantaged communities. The well-structured curriculums and placement-based training prepare trainees well to enter the world of teaching (Ofsted 2023).

The PGCE Primary course aims to prepare beginning teachers to meet the Teachers’ Standards. Throughout the course, beginning teachers will be challenged to achieve these standards to the highest level and we shall aspire to enable them to achieve outstanding levels of professional practice. Of equal importance is the academic qualification awarded: Postgraduate Certificate (PGCE). The academic and professional dimensions to Initial Teacher Education go hand in hand. The abilities to address complex issues and develop critical thinking skills are important dimensions to university-based taught modules. These issues are often based on professional experiences gained from both assessed and non-assessed school placements.

We believe that Initial Teacher Education should go beyond skills and teaching routines to foster strong values and a strong commitment to the well-being of children in the widest sense. Social Justice is an important driving-force behind the programme.

Partnership settings are central to the success of the preparation of new teachers on this programme. The school-based element of teacher education incorporates professional and academic opportunities. These are inextricably linked to the preparation for Qualified Teacher Status*.

Beginning teachers will follow one of two pathways: 3-7 years, covering Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) and Key Stage 1 or 5–11 years, covering Key Stage 1 and Key Stage 2. The age phase route they follow will determine the assessed placements undertaken.

*University of Greenwich sets and receives fees, delivers the programme, provides wellbeing support, and makes the academic award. University of Derby co-designs and accredits the curriculum, and recommends the QTS award.

What you should know about this course: